A part-time job can cover a real share of your living costs in Austria — but for non-EU students the rules are specific. Here's what's allowed.
How many hours you can work
Up to 20 hours per week
Holders of a Residence Permit – Student can work up to 20 hours per week (including small-scale "geringfügige" jobs). The work permit for this is granted without a labour-market test.
The work permit (your employer applies)
You don't apply for the permit yourself — your employer applies for a Beschäftigungsbewilligung (employment permit) at the AMS (Public Employment Service) before you start the job.
- The employer applies to the AMS, not you
- It must be granted before you begin work
- It covers up to 20 hours per week
- No labour-market check is required for student permit holders
Things to watch
- Working more than allowed can put your residence permit at risk
- Earning above the 'geringfügig' threshold means social-insurance contributions
- A job does not replace the proof of funds you needed for the permit
- Your studies must remain your main activity (academic-progress rules still apply)
Internships count too
Compulsory internships that are part of your curriculum have their own rules — check with your university's international office and the AMS before starting one.
Your checklist
Before you start a job
0/5 doneHealth insurance for students
Keep moving toward Austria
Browse programs you qualify for, or sort out where you'll live once you arrive.