FAQ
Frequently asked questions
1. How long does the entire process take from registration to arrival at the workplace abroad?
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The journey typically takes 9 to 12 months, starting from the time you're accepted by an Austrian employer and sign your contract. During this period, you'll focus on learning the German language up to B1 level and preparing for the official exam. Once you pass the exam and complete the necessary documentation, you'll be ready to travel and begin your new career in Austria. This timeline ensures you're fully equipped both linguistically and professionally for a smooth transition.
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2. What sectors are currently open for application?
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The current openings are Nurses with Bachelor's Degrees. Unless advertised, we also accept Diploma nurses. Other employment opportunities are in the pipeline.
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3. Do I need work experience in my field?
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While Austrian regulations do not mandate prior work experience if you hold a nursing degree, having hands-on experience is definitely an added advantage. Many employers value practical experience as it can ease your transition into the workplace and demonstrate your readiness to handle real-life healthcare scenarios. So, even though it’s not a requirement, it can give you a competitive edge during placement.
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4. Can I apply while still learning German?
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Yes, if you are a specialist in your field and determined to diligently learn basic German (A1, A2 and B1 level course) within 1 year, we will be at your service to interview and onboard you.
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5. What documents will I need to submit?
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A Europass CV, passport copy, Certified Birth certificate, Certified Bachelor Degree and Certified KCSE, University curriculum, among other documents. We assist you in ensuring you have the right documents for the whole process.
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6. Do I get to choose the province or employer in Austria?
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While we understand everyone has preferences, flexibility is highly encouraged. Placement depends largely on the needs of partnering employers and the availability of positions across various regions. The good news is that every region in Austria offers unique advantages whether it's a vibrant city atmosphere or a peaceful countryside setting. We work to ensure that your placement aligns with both your qualifications and the employer’s requirements, offering you the best start in your new career.
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7. What is the total cost of the programme?
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As a candidate, your main expenses include the German language course and exam fees (A1 to B1 levels), eCitizen certifications (such as Ministry of Foreign Affairs attestations), and a police clearance certificate.
The great news is that many of these costs such as B1 language training and exams, document legalization at the Austrian Embassy, and visa fees are reimbursed by your employer, significantly reducing your financial burden.
For a clear breakdown tailored to your specific case, feel free to contact us directly. We're here to guide you through every step of the process.
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8. Will TYE help with the visa application?
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Yes, we give detailed visa application guidance and support to our candidates.
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9. Do you provide accommodation in Austria?
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Yes, our candidates don't need to worry about accomodation search or airport transfer in Austria. The accommodation comes at an affordable rate not exceeding one third of the salary.
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10. Is there any support when I arrive in Austria?
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Yes, you are assigned a mentor alongside your manager who will answer and support you where necessary. You will also undergo pre departure training where you get more insights on the location, culture, way of living etc. Occasionally, we organize get-togethers with candidates in Austria and have a dedicated Whatsapp and phone line in case of any emergencies.
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11. Is this program safe and legitimate?
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Yes, we have candidates traveling from Africa every year and those in the pipeline learning German language to join their colleagues in Austria. Fair recruitment with highest ethical standards is our DNA.
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12. Do I have to sign a contract?
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Yes, after a preliminary interview there is a pre-contract, covering the mutual commitments, to be signed.
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13. How much is the average salary?
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The Gross salary varies in the first 2 years in most cases between 2,700 and 3,000 EUR. The Net salary between 1,980 and 2,150 EUR. That's after social health insurance cover, pension accrual and tax have been deducted. The salary increases over the years with performance and loyalty.
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14. Is this a form of migration or temporary work placement?
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Once you complete your supplementary courses and get your German B2 in Austria, you get a permanent RWR card. Meanwhile, your contract and visa is for 2 years pegged on your employer to finish the supplementary courses and German B2.
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15. Can I bring my family with me to Austria?
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Yes, you are eligible for family reunification. It's highly recommended to do a family reunion not earlier than after six months to one year, once you are well settled and you have found a bigger accommodation where you can stay with your family.
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16. Will I be eligible for permanent residency or citizenship later?
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To become an Austrian citizen through naturalization, it generally takes at least 10 years of continuous legal residence in Austria, with at least 5 of those years as a permanent resident.
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17. ​How long does each phase?
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For Austria most companies need 9-12 months (10-15h of language training per week) for the A1, A2 and B1 German classes, and also to pass the required B1 exam. The other phases can take 2-4 months each. Patience pays off. Please refer to our How it works to see the timelines.
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18. When does the next batch or intake begin?
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Intakes are anytime as long as you have your B1 German language certificate and your Bachelors Degree.
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19. What is the age limit?
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We warmly welcome applicants up to the age of 45 years. This age limit helps ensure you have ample time for career development, integration, and long-term settlement opportunities in Austria. If you're within this age range and passionate about nursing, you're encouraged to apply.
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20. What are other requirements needed once in Austria?
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Once you arrive in Austria, you’ll complete supplementary courses provided by a University of Applied Sciences. These courses are designed to help you smoothly integrate into the Austrian healthcare system and cover essential topics like Austrian culture, data protection, and system-specific practices not your core nursing curriculum.
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You’ll also need to attain your German B2 language certification, which enhances your professional communication and opens the door to long-term opportunities.
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The best part? All these courses and certifications are fully funded by your employer, so you can focus on learning and settling in without financial stress.
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21. How is the cost of living in Austria?
Austria offers a high quality of life with well-balanced living costs compared to many Western European countries. While expenses vary by region, most nurses find the cost of living manageable especially with housing provided at an affordable rate, usually not exceeding one-third of your salary.
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Essential services like healthcare and public transport are efficient and fairly priced, and with your net monthly salary ranging from €1,980 to €2,150, you'll be able to cover your living costs comfortably while also saving. Additionally, Austria’s strong social support systems make life even more secure and stable.
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22. What else do you provide apart from visa support?
In addition to comprehensive visa guidance, we offer a range of support services to ensure you are fully prepared for your journey to Austria:
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Pre-departure training conducted by an Austrian native, giving you valuable insights into Austrian culture, lifestyle, and what to expect when you arrive.
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German language support tools to help you strengthen your communication skills as you prepare for life and work abroad.
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Full documentation assistance, including help with any challenges that may arise at various ministries or government offices.
Our goal is to make your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible from your home country to your new life in Austria.
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23. Can I specialize?
Yes absolutely Registered nurses in Austria have excellent opportunities to specialize in various fields. Specialization areas regulated by law include intensive care anesthesia care pediatric care psychiatric care palliative care oncological care and operating room nursing. While you can start working in these areas without immediate specialization, completing the relevant training within a few years is typically expected.
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Additionally nurses can pursue further academic education such as a master's degree with specializations in research nursing development education or management. This opens the door to leadership roles and teaching positions within the healthcare sector giving you the chance to grow and shape your career long-term.
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24. What are the working conditions like in Austria?
Working conditions in Austria are well-structured and supportive especially for nurses. You can expect to work between thirty seven to forty hours per week with shifts typically lasting ten to twelve hours either during the day or at night depending on your duty schedule. Nurses enjoy between twenty five to thirty days of paid holiday each year and receive fourteen (14) salary payments annually which includes holiday and Christmas bonuses.
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From your very first day you are covered by social insurance providing you with health pension and unemployment security. Many hospitals offer discounted meals in their restaurants and accommodation is arranged for your first few months at an affordable rate.
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The required supplementary course for recognition as a registered nurse is fully funded by your employer with the agreement that you remain in your position for at least three years after completing the course. This arrangement ensures both your professional development and job security.
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25. How can I access the Support Materials for Learning the German language?
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Please email us on info@tye-pathways.com to send you the full list of schools we have partnered with and application or native Austrian tools you can use.​​​
