Moving Guide

The most important pre-move step for non-EU nationals is securing your visa/permit from the Austrian embassy in your home country. For EU citizens, the process is simpler but address registration must happen immediately on arrival. Research your district, secure accommodation for at least the first month, and start German lessons as early as possible — even A1 makes a material difference in day-to-day life.

The first week in Austria is heavily administrative. The single most critical task is the Meldezettel — registering your address at the local Bezirksamt. Everything else flows from this document: bank account, tax registration, social security, and residence permit application. Bring all original documents and translations (if required) to every government office visit.

Most expats moving to Vienna ship a container or pallet of belongings rather than buying everything new. International removal companies serve Vienna well, and EU moves face no customs complications. Non-EU moves require customs clearance and an itemized inventory. Vienna apartment lifts (elevators) are often small — check measurements before booking large furniture delivery.

Austria has excellent public schools (free for all legal residents) and a strong international school sector in Vienna. The public school system (Volksschule from age 6) is taught in German — many expat children integrate quickly, but families planning a short-term stay often prefer international schools to avoid language disruption. International school fees in Vienna are among the highest costs expat families face.