To make your move to Austria as smooth as possible, take the time to plan and prepare for your move. Researching before your arrival into preferred neighborhoods, housing options, schools, and employment options can make the transition easier. It is also recommended, if needed, to improve your German language skills, as almost all government and administrative transactions are conducted in German. The following article contains information to assist with planning your move.
Planning your relocation to Austria
Many international moving companies can help with planning and executing a move to Austria. Prices for their services can vary widely depending on the goods to be transported and the value of fragile and irreplaceable goods. It is recommended to get quotes from several removal companies before deciding on a company. It is also useful to check their insurance policies, the transport time, and the transport method. Goods can be transported by land, sea or air, and costs will vary depending on the transport method and the delivery time frame, with costs increasing if delivery is urgently required.
To find the best moving company when relocating to Austria, look for places that are experienced, have positive customer reviews online, are fully insured and accredited, and are open and transparent with their pricing and delivery methods. It is helpful to start research well in advance of your planned moving date, to allow for sufficient time to pack, prepare, and relocate.
If you travel into Austria by air, your airline may have additional requirements for pet travel, with fees attached. Contact your airline for more information. Also, read our article about "Relocating to Austria with your pets".
German language skills in Austria
The official language in Austria is German, and the written language hardly differs from the one in Germany. Orally, there are many dialectal groups within Austria and Germany.
The Österreich Institut runs German courses at ten locations in Europe, namely in Belgrade, Bratislava, Brno, Budapest, Krakow, Moscow, Rome, Sarajevo, Warsaw and Wroclaw.
The exams of the Austria Centre are basically the same as those of the Goethe Centre. All German courses are required by the international association to offer cultural studies of all German-speaking countries.
You can also choose from a variety of German courses in Austria itself if you do not have time to learn German in advance. Once you have learned High German and a few regional terms, most everyday communication will go smoothly.
English or German at work?
In the world of professional life, it's hard to make general statements, as it varies greatly from sector to sector. The best thing to do is to ask your future employer or colleague.
Customs requirements in Austria
When entering Austria, the duty requirements vary, depending on whether you are coming from an EU or non-EU country. However, all passengers must declare cash in the value of EUR 10,000 or more (in any currency). Arrivals from non-EU countries must also declare tobacco, medicine, and alcoholic purchases that are over the duty-free limits, as well as goods intended for commercial sale or goods that are restricted.
Austrian Immigration and customs officials can conduct checks at any time, so it's best to be aware of all customs requirements before entering the country. It is also recommended to travel with copies of your prescriptions for all medicines you are taking, as customs may ask for these as proof that you have been prescribed the medicine you are carrying.
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