Working Remotely

Remote Work in Austria

Austria offers good infrastructure for remote work, particularly in Vienna, though the country lacks a dedicated digital nomad visa and has strict rules about working on tourist visas.

Visa Considerations

Important legal framework:

Employees (RWR Card, Blue Card):

• Can work remotely for Austrian employer
• Must have employer approval
• Work location should be in Austria
• Working from abroad may have social security implications

Self-Employed (Gewerbeschein):

• Can work remotely for any clients
• Must register business activity
• Austrian tax and social security obligations apply
• Home office acceptable

No Digital Nomad Visa:

• Cannot work remotely for non-Austrian company on tourist visa
• Austrian law applies "territorial principle" — any work on Austrian soil is subject to Austrian law
• Enforcement increasing

Internet Infrastructure

Quality: Good in cities, moderate in rural/Alpine areas

Typical speeds & costs:

Providers:

• A1 Telekom (largest, most reliable)
• Magenta (T-Mobile Austria)
• Drei (Three)
• Fonira (budget)

Mobile backup: 5G available in cities, 4G good nationwide

Coworking Spaces

Vienna (main hub):

• Impact Hub Vienna: Social innovation focus, €35-225/month
• Talent Garden: Tech-focused, modern facilities
• Stockwerk: Renovated factory, €15/day, €170/month
• Loffice: Creative workspace with terrace
• The Collaboratory: Expat-friendly, has nursery

Other cities:

• Graz: Smaller scene, university-linked spaces
• Salzburg: Limited options, cafes popular
• Linz: Growing tech hub, Tabakfabrik creative campus

Costs:

• Hot desk: €120-250/month
• Fixed desk: €200-350/month
• Day pass: €15-30
• Private office: €350-700/month

Home Office Considerations

For employees:

• Home office agreements increasingly common post-COVID
• Employer may provide equipment stipend
• Tax deductions for home office expenses available
• Must inform landlord if using apartment commercially

For self-employed:

• Can deduct portion of rent and utilities
• Requires dedicated workspace for full deduction
• Keep detailed records for tax office (Finanzamt)

Work Culture

Remote work acceptance:

• Tech companies: Mostly hybrid or fully remote
• Start-ups: Flexible arrangements
• Corporate/traditional: Increasingly hybrid (2-3 days office)
• Public sector: Mostly in-office

Best Cities for Remote Workers