Job Discussion Forums

[igbyfish]

Hello! Ok, so I have a few questions here and I'm hoping that somebody can help me. My girlfriend is from Graz, Austria and so I would like to go stay with her for a while. While I'm there I'd really like to find some part time work. Now, here's the problem: I'm an American. I realize that it will probably be quite difficult to find a job as a non-EU member, and specifically as an American. So my question is: what's available? Anything? Preferably legal rather than under-the-table, but I am curious about all options out there. By the time I'm there I will have a TEFL certificate and two years of teaching experience in China, so what about part-time tutoring? Also, my girlfriend says that there are Irish pubs that hire native English speakers. Any information about them? Any information as far as jobs go, the process of getting a work visa, advice, etc. would be much appreciated. I should also mention that I do not know German, but am currently learning. Oh, and yeah I've read the few other questions on here about Austria, but I'm hoping for some more enlightenment. Thanks so much for any advice you can give!

[junkmail]

[spiral78]

Yeah, unfortunately, Austria is a different kettle of fish from Germany. It's difficult but doable to get a work visa for Germany (if you're not an EU member citizen). However, Austria's quite a lot tougher. I think the previous poster's mentioned some good points. If you are there, on the ground, you will have a better chance to find something - but short of getting married, it's going to be next to impossible to get legal working papers for Austria. good luck anyway....I wonder if it would be an acceptable option to get work somplace like Bratislava, with good, quick train connections to Graz?

[poro]

This link gives you information concerning permits:

http://www.wien.gv.at/english/immigrationoffice/rightofresidence.htm

And this is the Austrian embassy in Washington DC, which could be useful.

http://www.austria.org/

As with many countries, US citizens can stay in Austria for up to 3 months at a time without a visa or permit, but they do need a permit to work. However, you can travel in as a tourist, and apply for the necessary papers when you are there.

And yes, there are Irish pubs all over Europe. In fact, I was even thrown out of one in Germany because the Irish bartender thought I was English!

[MissDVLA]

igbyfish, have you had any luck finding work in Graz. I am also moving there and would like to teach. I'd love to know how you've found it.