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Guide Updated 2026 5 min read

First 7 Days in Austria: Complete Newcomer Checklist

A simple step-by-step guide for your first week: Meldezettel, health insurance, bank account, SIM card, and more — without stress.

Austria

Moving to Austria is exciting — but the first week can feel confusing because there are “must-do” steps that unlock everything else (health insurance, bank account, SIM card, job paperwork, etc.). This guide gives you a simple day-by-day checklist so you don’t waste time or miss deadlines.

Who this is for: newcomers, students, job seekers, family reunification, and anyone who just arrived in Austria.

Before you start: What you should prepare

  • Passport / ID
  • Rental contract (Mietvertrag) or confirmation of housing
  • Meldezettel form (address registration form)
  • Work contract (if you have one)
  • Printed copies + digital copies of everything
Tip: Keep digital copies of all documents in Google Drive (or another cloud). Austria paperwork often requires the same documents again and again.

Day 1–2: Register your address (Meldezettel)

This is your first and most important task. Without registration, many services become difficult (bank account, mobile plan, sometimes health insurance and job paperwork).

What is Meldezettel?

Meldezettel is the official address registration in Austria. When you move into a new place, you must register your address soon. The landlord or accommodation provider usually must sign the form.

What you need

  • Meldezettel form (filled)
  • Passport/ID
  • Signature from landlord / accommodation provider
  • Rental contract (sometimes requested)

Where to do it

  • In Vienna: Magistratisches Bezirksamt (MA)
  • Other cities: Gemeindeamt / Meldeamt

Common mistakes

  • Landlord signature missing
  • Wrong address format / apartment number missing
  • Waiting too long to register

After you register: keep copies or scans. You will use it again for bank, SIM, and more.

Day 2–3: Health insurance (Krankenversicherung)

Health insurance is mandatory in Austria. How you get it depends on your situation:

If you have a job

Usually the employer registers you. Ask HR: “Am I already registered with health insurance?”

If you are a student

Many students use student self-insurance. You apply through the provider and pay monthly.

If you don’t have a job yet

You may need self-insurance or private insurance until you get public coverage.

Tip: The e-card can take time — keep temporary confirmation (email/letter) as proof.

Day 3–4: Open a bank account

Most Austrian payments are easiest with a local bank account: salary, rent, bills, insurance, and more.

What you need (usually)

  • Passport/ID
  • Meldezettel
  • Sometimes: work contract or residence permit

Ask these questions at the bank

  • What are the monthly fees?
  • Are cash withdrawals free?
  • Can I receive my salary?

Day 4–5: Get an Austrian SIM card + internet

Once you have an address (and often a bank card), getting a SIM is easier.

Options

  • Prepaid SIM: quick, no contract, best for week 1
  • Contract SIM: better value long-term, may require bank details

Pro tip: Start with prepaid if you’re unsure. You can switch later.

Day 5–6: Transport, tickets, and city basics

Public transport is great in Austria — and you save money with the correct ticket early.

  • Buy a weekly/monthly ticket if you commute daily
  • Install a route app (tickets + route planning)
  • Learn your nearest stations + night options

Day 6–7: Work + paperwork setup (if you’re job hunting)

If you came to Austria for work, use the first week to set up your job search system.

Checklist

  • Update your CV to Austrian style (clean, simple, structured)
  • Create a basic cover letter template
  • Set job alerts (daily)
  • Prepare a folder with all documents: passport, Meldezettel, certificates

If you already have a job

  • Confirm insurance registration
  • Confirm salary date and bank details
  • Ask HR about onboarding documents

Download the Free Austria Starter Checklist

Get a printable PDF version with links and documents list — so you can follow this step-by-step.

Get it free

Quick Summary: Your 7-day plan

  1. Day 1–2: Register your address (Meldezettel)
  2. Day 2–3: Confirm health insurance status
  3. Day 3–4: Open a bank account
  4. Day 4–5: Get SIM card + internet
  5. Day 5–6: Transport tickets + city essentials
  6. Day 6–7: Job setup or HR onboarding

Final tips (save you time)

  • Always carry: passport + Meldezettel copy
  • Keep a “documents folder” on your phone
  • Ask offices for written confirmation if something is delayed
  • Complete the first 3 steps early — everything becomes easier after that