Health & Social Services | Austria’s Comprehensive Support System

Austria offers one of Europe’s most robust health and social service systems, ensuring a high standard of care and financial security for residents. This guide provides an overview of essential services, including mandatory health insurance, accident and unemployment coverage, pension schemes, and top-tier healthcare facilities. Learn about benefits for pregnancy and childbirth, the role of pharmacies, and accessing Austrian insurance abroad. Austria’s commitment to social security ensures well-being for both locals and newcomers.

General Overview

Austria is among the European countries investing heavily in social services, allocating over a quarter of its GDP to social spending, significantly exceeding the OECD average of 21.1%. Its comprehensive social security system includes health, pension, accident, and unemployment insurance, covering all employees earning above the marginal threshold (€518.44 in 2024).
Social security contributions are deducted automatically via payroll. The system, managed by multiple institutions at national and regional levels, ensures robust social security infrastructure for residents.

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Accident Insurance

Employees and students in Austria automatically receive accident insurance through the General Accident Insurance Institution (AUVA). This covers workplace or commute-related accidents and occupational illnesses for employees. Students are insured for injuries related to their education, with coverage for international students depending on their residence status. Self-employed individuals are insured via the SVS. Additional supplementary insurance options are available for extended coverage.

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Pension Insurance

Pension insurance in Austria provides financial security upon retirement due to age or inability to work. Managed by the Austrian Pension Insurance Institution (PVA), it also includes medical rehabilitation and preventative healthcare to reduce early retirements. Surviving dependents can receive pensions after an insured person’s death.
Eligibility requires at least 15 years of contributions, with 7 years gained through employment. Austria coordinates with other EU countries for pension periods, ensuring seamless benefits for those with international contributions.

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Unemployment Insurance

Unemployment insurance in Austria is financed by a 5.9% contribution from gross monthly earnings, shared equally by employers and employees.

Benefits include:
– Unemployment benefits based on income.
– Emergency assistance for those exhausting unemployment benefits.
– Allowances for retraining or part-time education.
– Social insurance coverage during unemployment, ensuring free healthcare.

Eligibility requires 52 weeks of insured employment in the past two years, with shorter periods for younger workers. Benefits are managed by the Public Employment Service (AMS).

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Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory in Austria, covering a wide range of services, from basic care and specialist treatments to maternity services and rehabilitation. Insured persons receive an e-card to access public health services, including doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies.
Employees are automatically enrolled with the ÖGK, public employees with BVAEB, and self-employed individuals with the SVS. Contributions range from 1.5% to 3.9% of gross income. Coverage begins on the first day of employment, with employers managing registration.

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Healthcare Services

Austria boasts one of the most advanced healthcare systems in Europe, with mandatory health insurance ensuring nearly universal coverage. Public insurance covers a wide range of services, from general practitioner visits to complex surgeries, including annual free check-ups and specialized maternity care. Patients can choose their preferred doctors and access specialist treatments, with private insurance offering enhanced benefits.

Emergency services, including numbers for fire, police, and medical aid, operate 24/7. A comprehensive network of outpatient care and specialized dental services ensures prompt and quality care.

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Pregnancy and Childbirth

Austria offers excellent healthcare services for expectant mothers, supported by the Maternity Protection Act. Pregnant employees are protected against dismissal and have a ban on working during the protection period, which typically runs from 8 weeks before to 8 weeks after childbirth. During this time, mothers receive maternity pay from the ÖGK.

All pregnant residents receive a Mother-Child Passport, which includes vital health check-ups for the mother and baby up to the child’s fifth year. Midwife consultations and glucose tolerance tests are part of the comprehensive prenatal care.

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Pharmacies

In Austria, medicines are primarily sold in pharmacies, with only certain non-prescription items available in drugstores. Pharmacies operate Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Emergency pharmacies are available 24/7.

The prescription fee is €7.10 per medication, with a cap at 2% of annual net income, beyond which individuals are automatically exempt for the rest of the year.

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Austrian Insurance Coverage Abroad

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), located on the back of Austria’s e-card, provides medical coverage in EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, and several Balkan states during short-term stays. Each insured family member must have their own EHIC, valid only when all data fields on the card are complete.
Outside Europe, medical costs are not directly covered but may be reimbursed in part if invoices are submitted. Travelers are advised to carry an international treatment certificate for non-EU/EEA trips.

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FAQs on Health and Social Services in Austria

Austria’s comprehensive healthcare and social services system addresses common questions to help residents and newcomers navigate their options with ease. The FAQs cover topics such as how to find doctors and hospitals, access vaccinations, and utilize preventative care programs.

Detailed guidance is provided on accessing psychotherapy, physiotherapy, and other specialized treatments. Whether you need information about routine healthcare or specialized support, Austria’s well-structured system ensures clarity and accessibility for all.

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For more detailed information on residence permits in Austria, visit the official residence and employment page.