Rules, Jobs, and Salaries for Work in Austria while Studying

Austria is a popular study destination in Europe, offering high-quality education and vibrant student life. Many international students want to work part-time while studying to support themselves and gain work experience. Austria allows students to work legally under certain conditions, making it easier to balance studies and income.

Rules for Working While Studying in Austria

International students in Austria must follow specific rules depending on their nationality:

1. EU/EEA Students

   • Can work without a work permit

   • Employment must not interfere with studies

   • Maximum of 20 hours per week during term-time

2. Non-EU/EEA Students

   • Must obtain a student residence permit

   • Allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester

   • Full-time work (up to 40 hours/week) is permitted during semester breaks

   • Some jobs may require approval from the Austrian Public Employment Service

3. Minimum Age

   • Most part-time jobs require students to be 18 years or older

4. Social Security & Taxes

   • Students earning more than €475/month must pay social insurance contributions

   • Income above €12,000/year may be subject to income tax

Popular Jobs for Students in Austria

1. On-Campus Jobs

   • Library assistant, research assistant, lab work, student tutor

2. Off-Campus Jobs

   • Waiter/Waitress in cafes and restaurants

   • Retail staff in stores and supermarkets

   • Customer service, call centers, or reception jobs

   • Delivery or hospitality services in tourist areas

3. Internships & Part-Time Roles Related to Studies

   • Business students: Marketing, finance, or administration internships

   • IT students: Web development, software testing, data analysis

   • Engineering students: Lab assistant, project intern

Average Salaries for Student Jobs in Austria

• Minimum wage for student jobs: Around €12–€15/hour

• Average part-time job: €450–€700 per month (depending on hours and city)

• Internships related to studies: €800–€1,200 per month, sometimes unpaid for academic credit

• Full-time summer work: Up to €2,000 per month

Tips for Balancing Work and Studies

• Plan your work schedule around lectures and assignments

• Avoid exceeding 20 hours/week during term-time

• Focus on jobs that provide relevant experience for your career

• Use student networks, university job boards, and online portals to find openings

Working in Austria while studying is a great way to gain professional experience, improve language skills, and support your living expenses. By understanding the rules, job options, and salaries, international students can balance work and academics effectively and make the most of their study-abroad experience.