Employment in Salzburg

Work Permits for Salzburg

Those who are not Austrian citizens will only be able to enter employment in Salzburg under a specific set of circumstances. Certain nationalities have unrestricted access to the job market, with EEA and Swiss citizens able to work without any issues. However, everyone else will need either an employment permit, a work permit, or an exemption certificate.

To apply for a work permit, you must meet certain criteria. You must speak English proficiently, have post-secondary qualifications, and be highly qualified in a skilled nominated occupation. You must also have been working for 12 months of the last 24 in this occupation. You’ll also have to complete a skills assessment before you apply.

Local Economy

Expats interested in working in Salzburg will be pleased to know that it is second only to Vienna, Austria’s capital, in terms of its economy and job market. Many small and medium sized companies, across a range of sectors, are based in Salzburg and act as a driving force for the area’s good employment rates and economy.

Salzburg is located on the border to Germany and North of the Central Eastern Alps, which cut right across the lower half of Austria. As a result, Salzburg is a popular tourist destination and the service sector is one of the biggest industries.

Salzburg’s industrial sector is where many expats are drawn to, particular its mechanical engineering, chemical and electronics industries. Due to its close location to the border of Germany, Salzburg is also a hub for automobile companies, many of which have their registered head offices in the city. In fact, the city’s location at the heart of Western Europe makes it a popular choice for the European headquarters of many international companies. Expats working for such employers will be pleased to note that Salzburg W.A Mozart Airport is just a 15 minute drive from the city center and offers flights to destinations throughout Europe, perfect for those who travel regularly for business.

Income Taxation in Salzburg

If you’re living and working in Salzburg, you’ll be expected to pay Austrian income tax. This is calculated at progressive rates, depending on how much you earn, and is deducted from your salary by your employer. Here are the tax bands for the country:

• Up to 10,999 EUR – 0%
• 11,000 – 25,000 EUR – 36.5%
• 25,001 – 60,000 EUR – 43.2%
• Over 60,000 EUR – 50%

There is one expatriate concession, which allows your employer to exempt certain expenses up front from payroll, withholding tax. These include double housing expenses, moving expenses, and lump sum school tuition fees.