Austria is one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for people looking to start a new chapter in life. With its breathtaking Alpine scenery, high quality of life, and stable economy, it appeals to individuals from all backgrounds.
But the idea of relocating to Austria without financial resources might sound impossible at first. The truth is, there are creative and proven pathways that allow people with little or no money to legally move to Austria, especially if they are willing to exchange their time, skills, or labor for opportunities.
Austria welcomes foreigners who bring value to its economy, labor force, or communities. Whether you are a student, skilled worker, volunteer, or someone with specialized talents, there are several channels you can explore.
These options are legal, realistic, and designed for people with limited financial means. The key is understanding what Austria offers and positioning yourself strategically.
Below, we explore ten effective ways to relocate to Austria without needing a large sum of money up front. Each method is structured around opportunity, government policy, and practical accessibility.
How to Move to Austria Without Money
1. Apply for a Volunteer Exchange Program
Volunteer exchange programs are one of the most practical routes for people with limited funds to move to Austria. These programs often cover your food, accommodation, and living expenses in exchange for a few hours of help per day.
What to Expect:
- Organizations like WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) or Workaway allow you to find volunteer hosts in Austria.
- You can offer to help on farms, hostels, or cultural centers in return for lodging and meals.
- You typically work 20 to 25 hours per week.
- No formal visa is needed for EU citizens, but non-EU citizens must apply for appropriate short-term stay permissions.
These volunteer programs not only get you a foot in the door but also offer networking opportunities, language practice, and cultural immersion.
2. Secure a Job That Offers Free Accommodation
Some employers in Austria provide accommodation as part of the job contract. This is especially common in hospitality, agriculture, and domestic work.
How to Take Advantage:
- Look for job listings in hotels, resorts, or seasonal farms in rural or alpine regions.
- Jobs such as housekeepers, kitchen helpers, or childcare workers often come with lodging.
- Employers may offer temporary work contracts that allow you to earn and live without needing money up front.
- You must apply for the Red-White-Red Card if you’re from outside the EU and the job qualifies under Austria’s skilled shortage categories.
This method provides both a way to earn income and reduce living expenses, making relocation financially manageable.
3. Enroll in a Tuition-Free University Program
Austria offers free or low-cost education to international students, particularly those from the EU and EEA. Even non-EU students can benefit from low tuition rates and student support systems.
What to Know:
- Public universities in Austria charge very little, and some charge no tuition at all for EU/EEA students.
- Non-EU students pay around €700 per semester, but scholarships and fee waivers are available.
- You can apply for a student residence permit, which allows you to work part-time while studying.
- Universities like the University of Vienna and Graz University of Technology welcome applications from foreigners.
If you choose a city with affordable living costs and find a part-time job, this pathway allows you to live and study in Austria almost expense-free.
4. Apply for the European Voluntary Service (EVS)
The European Voluntary Service, now part of the European Solidarity Corps, is funded by the EU and allows young people to volunteer in other European countries, including Austria.
What It Offers:
- Covers your travel costs, housing, food, insurance, and a small monthly allowance.
- Volunteer placements typically last from two to twelve months.
- You must be between 18 and 30 years old.
- No academic qualifications or work experience are required.
This government-funded program is ideal for those who want to make a difference while gaining international experience and enjoying a fully covered stay in Austria.
5. Use a Cultural Exchange or Au Pair Program
Au pair opportunities allow young people to live with an Austrian host family and assist with childcare or household duties in exchange for free accommodation and meals.
How It Works:
- You typically care for children for 18 to 25 hours per week.
- You receive pocket money, a private room, and meals from the family.
- In many cases, host families also pay for your German language course and transport.
- A residence permit for au pairs can be granted for up to 12 months.
This option is perfect for those between 18 and 28 years old who enjoy working with children and want to experience Austrian culture from within a local family setting.
6. Apply for Seasonal Jobs Through the Red-White-Red Card
Austria’s Red-White-Red Card program targets skilled and semi-skilled workers in fields with labor shortages. Some seasonal job contracts include accommodation and support with visa processing.
Here’s How You Can Benefit:
- Look for sectors like agriculture, tourism, and construction.
- Employers may recruit foreigners for summer or winter seasons.
- The jobs usually include food and lodging.
- You must meet minimum salary requirements and health insurance criteria.
Once inside the country and working, you can plan your transition into long-term residency through further employment or training.
7. Partner With a Non-Profit Organization for Social Projects
Many NGOs in Austria run social or environmental projects and welcome foreign interns or project workers. Some of them fund the basic costs of living and offer residence permits for participants.
Key Steps:
- Apply to Austrian or EU NGOs working in areas like human rights, environmental protection, or refugee assistance.
- Positions may include free lodging and daily meals.
- Some international NGOs offer stipends and travel reimbursements.
- These placements offer long-term networking and career opportunities in the non-profit world.
This route allows you to gain meaningful experience, make an impact, and live in Austria with minimal expenses.
8. Join a Language Teaching Program or English Assistant Role
Austria has language assistant programs that place native English speakers in schools across the country. You don’t need a teaching degree, just fluency and a positive attitude.
Opportunities Available:
- The Foreign Language Teaching Assistantship Program (run by the OeAD) places assistants in Austrian schools.
- You receive a monthly stipend, health insurance, and placement support.
- Teaching hours are typically between 13 and 15 per week.
- This job includes enough income to support a modest lifestyle in Austria.
Teaching English is one of the most direct ways to live and earn in Austria without starting with large savings.
9. Obtain a Freelance Artist or Creative Professional Visa
If you’re a writer, musician, visual artist, or creative professional, Austria has a residence permit specifically for self-employed artists. It’s ideal for people who can support themselves through their creative work.
Steps to Take:
- Prepare a portfolio and outline how your work contributes to Austrian culture or society.
- You need to show future contracts or intent to work with Austrian institutions.
- The visa allows you to live and earn in Austria as a self-employed person.
- Some municipalities offer housing grants or workspace for artists.
For creatives with talent and ambition, this is a viable pathway into Austria with little to no financial capital needed upfront.
10. Leverage Religious or Monastic Opportunities
Some religious institutions in Austria offer programs for people seeking a spiritual retreat, missionary work, or community living. These placements often include accommodation, food, and basic living support.
What You Should Know:
- Monasteries and abbeys sometimes welcome volunteers or temporary residents.
- You exchange services like gardening, cooking, or maintenance for a stay.
- You live in a peaceful setting with minimal expenses.
- Language is usually not a barrier, but basic German helps.
This less conventional path appeals to those looking for peace, reflection, or cultural experiences outside urban centers.
Conclusion
Moving to Austria without money may seem far-fetched, but with the right strategy and mindset, it is entirely possible. Whether through volunteering, seasonal work, education, or cultural exchange, Austria offers multiple pathways that make relocation achievable even for those with limited financial resources.
The key is to act with purpose. Identify the route that best matches your skills and interests. Prepare the necessary documents, such as a passport, resume, and motivation letter. Learn some basic German, and most importantly, be open to flexible work and living conditions in the beginning.
Austria rewards those who contribute meaningfully, regardless of their financial starting point. With planning, determination, and the willingness to adapt, you can transition into a new life in this beautiful country—one opportunity at a time.