CHAPTER 2
MOVING TO LINZ -
ESSENTIAL
To Dos.
Find everything you need to know about moving to Linz. This chapter covers the key aspects to consider before and after your move, including legal immigration, common visa and permit types, essential paperwork, securing accommodation, understanding visa requirements, navigating public transport, and integrating into the local community. Whether you're moving alone or with family, these insights will help you feel at home in no time.
Anyone moving to a new country should be prepared for some bureaucratic procedures. The following points will help streamline the process and make it as efficient as possible.
First steps for internationals moving to Upper Austria provides a short and helpful list from come2 Upper Austria with all the points you should address before moving.
You must register your address (Meldezettel) within three days of moving to Linz at the local municipal office (Magistrat der Landeshauptstadt Linz).
Webpage providing general information on registration matters of the City of Linz in German: Allgemeine Informationen zum Meldewesen | Stadt Linz
A CURIOUS FACT ABOUT LIVING IN LINZ
You can register, deregister and change your place of residence in person at the Citizens' Service in the New City Hall in Linz, as well as at the City Libraries in the Wissensturm, Auwiesen, Dornach/Auhof, Ebelsberg and Pichling.
The registration, de-registration and re-registration of a main residence or secondary residence is also possible online with ID Austria. More information on the subject of residence registration can be found at linz.at (in German).
Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa or a residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel), especially if you're from outside the EU/EEA.
(click on the text links to get further information)
Linz is more affordable than Vienna but still has high living standards. Rent, groceries, and public transport costs should be factored into your budget.
A good cost of living overview from come2Upper Austria: Average living costs in Upper Austria and numbeo: Cost of Living in Linz
The housing market can be competitive. Be prepared for deposits (Kaution) and agency fees (Provision).
(click on the text links to get further information)
Below you will find general links on the topic of renting in Linz (in German):
Austria has a strong healthcare system and you must have health insurance. If you're employed, you will be covered by public health insurance (ÖGK), but private insurance is also an option.
(click on the text links to get further information)
Tuberculosis is a disease that is still prevalent in some regions of the world. Therefore, Austria requires immigrants from high-risk areas to be tested for the disease. This generally includes immigrants who come from regions where tuberculosis is endemic, and is not limited to just asylum seekers and refugees.
See Tuberkulose | Stadt Linz for general information about TBC in the City of Linz (in German).
Open a local bank account for easier transactions. Many banks in Linz offer expat-friendly services. You’ll need your passport, residence registration (Meldezettel), and sometimes proof of employment.
Here you will find links to some common banks:
If moving with family, explore Kindergärten, international schools, or local public schools. Some international schools and Kindergartens may have waiting lists, so apply early!
While many people speak English, learning German (especially Austrian dialects) will help in daily life. German courses are available in many institutions and online.
Here you will find some pages about German courses:
