Austria, in the heart of Central Europe, is a veritable crossroads of communications, economic and cultural exchanges. Vienna, its capital, is home to 20% of the population, making it the 7th most populous city in the EU. Austria also has the fourth highest GDP per capita in the European Union.

Source : Country profile Business France

Good to know :

Language Spoken : German
Local Currency : Euro
Capital : Vienna

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.E in Austria

Do you already meet the International Young Talent Program criteria ?

 Doubts about your eligibility ? Do not hesitate to contact us.  

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.A in Austria

To go to Austria as a V.I.A, you must fulfil the access conditions to the V.I.A.
The administration that is recruiting you is responsible for your residence permit.

Cultural work codes in Austria

In Austria, communication is quite direct, especially when written. However, it is still very important to be polite in the professional and academic world. You must use “Sie”, for example, for first meetings but also when addressing an older person or a hierarchical superior.   

Also remember to use the right titles - both academic and professional - orally by mentioning the highest title and in writing by recording them all. “Herr Magister Doktor”, is of course a bit long-winded, but at least you make sure that you don’t offend your co-worker.

To avoid making any mistakes with your Austrian counterparts, avoid talking about money, politics and religion. Also be very punctual! You are even advised to arrive at your appointments a little early. Being on time in Austria means that you are already late !

In companies, decision-making processes are often quite lengthy as Austrian organisations are highly structured, with multiple decision-making levels. But this is especially true of large groups, with smaller companies showing greater flexibility and simplification in terms of hierarchy.

Similarly, working overtime is perceived differently depending on the company's culture. You can either be considered as someone who is very serious or as someone who is not very effective or unproductive during the day. Observe your colleagues and adapt accordingly !

Finally, in Austria, private and professional life are separated. So, if you discuss personal issues, do not go into too much detail !  

Source: The Business Guide Business France

Things that may surprise you in Austria

- Austria is enjoyed with your eyes, ears and mouth : Opera is a Viennese tradition that is not to be missed, the same as the cafés that offer flavour, ambience and refinement. A high place of culture and tradition, you don’t just order a simple “coffee” ! Indeed, the term coffee includes at least forty different hot drinks, each one more delicious than the other. Note to gourmets !

- Pastries have a history and must be taken seriously ! To commemorate the victory against the Turks in 1683, a small croissant called Hörnchen was reportedly made in memory of Viennese baker Adam Spiel, who it is said raised the alarm following an attack by the Turks.

- Know the protocol for greeting your Austrian counterparts ! In both private life and work, the formal greeting is "Grüß Gott." The German “Tchüss” to say goodbye is not done! Be careful, no kissing when meeting for the first time - shake hands with both men and women, even between family members. And remember that it is always the person with the highest rank or who is the oldest who reaches out first !

- There is also a whole etiquette and language with regard to cutlery. Cutting potatoes or "Knödel" with a knife sends out the message that they are hard. Once the dish is finished, place the knife and fork parallel to each other on the plate. Crossing the cutlery means you want to be served more or haven't finished eating.

- When toasting, always look each other in the eye !   

- You press your thumbs to bring luck !

- Every year, corporations organise their own ball, the social event of the season - opera ball, confectioners’ ball, doctors’ ball, coffee makers’ ball, etc.  

- Skiing remains Austria’s national sport and Redbull is one of Austria’s greatest success stories.