The Economy and Employment
The city of Vienna is home to about 25% of the Austrian population, with 12.6% of the employed population composed of immigrants, and it boasts an economy that is as diverse as its many wondrous infrastructures. City revenue comes from government, the finance sector, commerce, and manufacturing industries.
The service sector is Vienna's largest employer, with aproximately 75% of the Viennese workforce under it. Industrial manufacturing firms also hold a good number of employed individuals under its belt, with 135,964 in its workforce. The metal production and processing is another significant asset of the labor market in Vienna, with the production of food and drink ranking second as the most active employer of the industry sector. This is followed closely by the printing industry. Other important areas of economy deal with the production and processing of chemical products, rubber and petroleum, and other construction-related materials.
Vienna is also a popular spot for tourists with its many museums, palaces, its festive musical events, great food, and its overall romantic Old World charm. There are also a number of international organizations that are housed in Vienna, such as agencies of the United Nations (UN) and the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
Getting a Work Permit
Any foreigner (except EU nationals) seeking gainful employment in the beguiling city of Vienna must remember to secure both a residence visa and a work permit. The application can be made at your nearest Austrian embassy, and would best be facilitated with the help of your employer. This should be done prior to your departure from your country of residence. Your employer may also need to submit a copy of your employment contract, and this contract should also show that the employee's day to day work management remains with the service provider, and also state the period of employment.
Once the necessary documents have been assembled, the application would be forwarded to the city's AMS or Arbeitsmarktservice where it will be processed. Be aware that documents submitted for the application of a work permit must also have a German translation.
Processing time for the application would be about 7 weeks.
Work Culture
Despite the idyllic and laid-back ambiance of the city of Vienna, its people follow a culture of order and efficiency in the workplace.
Viennese people place great value on time, so make sure to be at your most punctual when it comes to business meetings or appointments if you want to make a good impression. Dressing in business or corporate attire would be best. Vienna is more on the formal and conservative side when it comes to work wardrobe.
Learning a little of the German language and the Viennese culture would also be a great way of reaching out to both your colleagues and your bosses. Austrians definitely appreciate a foreigner's effort to also get to know their language and their customs and traditions.

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