Top working conditions for Romanian nursing staff in Austria

Relia's journey from Romania to Austria began with a simple desire: to find a stable career that would allow her to help others while improving her own quality of life. She had always supported and cared for her family, and it seemed natural for her to turn this passion for care into her profession. When she heard about the increasing demand for care workers in Austria, she was intrigued. Austria not only promised a stable income, but also offered a welcoming environment for foreign care workers like her. Without much knowledge of German or prior cultural knowledge, she took the plunge and trusted that her skills and dedication would pave the way for her.

The start: Why Austria?

Austria has long been a popular destination for care workers from Eastern Europe. The country has a steadily ageing population, which increases the demand for qualified nursing staff. According to the Austrian Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection the number of people over 65 will increase to around 1.7 million by 2030, increasing the need for compassionate caregivers who can provide specialized support for the elderly. Romania, known for its warm and empathetic culture, is a key provider of caregivers to fill this gap.

For Relia, the promise of job security and a higher income was hard to resist. The Salaries for nurses in Austria can be up to three times higher than in Romania. In addition, Austria attractive social benefits - including health insurance, pension and vacation entitlement. The incentive was not just financial: Austria's renowned healthcare system promised her a quality of life that she had not experienced in Romania, where resources for nursing staff were limited.

The first steps: Arrival in Austria

Relia was faced with the great challenge of preparing for her new life. She quickly discovered that Austria requires foreign nursing staff to have recognized certificates and German language skills. For many Romanian caregivers, this process can be difficult. Relia started a language course to reach a basic level so that she could communicate effectively with her clients and colleagues. She soon learned about the "Austrian Language Diploma German", a certificate that is often required by Austrian employers.

With her ÖSD in hand, it was a matter of getting her Romanian nursing qualifications recognized in Austria. This meant sending their diplomas to the official recognition bodies (E.L ) in Austria, which can take several months. Fortunately, organizations such as  ENIC-NARIC Austria, which is responsible for the recognition of international qualifications, Relia is helping to cut through the bureaucratic jungle.

Settling in: Relia's first impressions

When Relia arrived in Austria, she found it both exciting and overwhelming. Understanding a new healthcare system, learning about Austrian customs and adapting to a new working environment were her first hurdles. She quickly built a supportive network through online support groups and special Facebook groups where caregivers share advice and experiences. These platforms put her in touch with other Romanian caregivers, which helped ease her transition.

Relia also turned to noracares.at, an online platform that connects caregivers with families. Here she found suitable jobs and was able to adapt to the needs of her clients. In her Role as a 24-hour nurse she lived with her client and provided round-the-clock care. This type of care is demanding as it requires the caregiver to be constantly present while balancing their own needs. Despite the initial exhaustion, Relia discovered how rewarding it was to build a close bond with her client. Her first client, Mrs. Moser, was an 83-year-old woman with limited mobility. Through shared stories and laughter, Relia was soon no longer a stranger, but family.

The Support System: Mastering the Demands of 24-Hour Care

Relia's work as a caregiver in the live-in model meant her days were full of demands. The 24-hour care model can be isolating, and without inadequate support, caregivers often suffer a Burnout. She relied on a network of other caregivers who were connected via Facebook groups and forums exchanged advice, shared experiences and offered encouragement on difficult days. noracares provided her with additional resources that helped her balance her professional and personal life.

These online communities and support from noracares helped her develop a balanced routine where she took breaks between her caregiving tasks. In these groups, caregivers exchanged ideas, offered each other comfort and strengthened Relia's resolve through cultural connection. Regular online check-ins and meetings with other caregivers helped her cope with tough days and celebrate small successes.

Understanding Austrian culture and building a future

Integration was crucial to Relia's success. Understanding Austrian culture and its norms was especially important in her role, where she not only cared for the physical needs of her clients, but was also involved in their personal lives. She invested in cultural courses offered by the ÖIF were offered. There she learned the Austrian customs, etiquette and family structures, which helped her to better understand the expectations and lifestyles of her clients.

Her hard work paid off. Within a year, Relia had established herself as a trusted caregiver with an excellent reputation. She was proud of her journey, grateful for the opportunities Austria offered her, and determined to continue growing in her role. Relia began taking additional courses in specialized nursing, with the goal of becoming an expert in the care of Dementia Patients to work - a field that is in high demand in Austria. Her aim was to further improve her qualifications, knowing that Austria would support her ambitions.

Practical tips for prospective nurses from Romania

For anyone looking to follow a similar path, Relia recommends investing in language training first. Knowledge of German opens doors and makes work and interactions easier. She also emphasizes the importance of understanding Austrian regulations for foreign workers, including tax obligations and residence permits.

To find a job, Relia recommends platforms like noracares.at, which connects caregivers with Austrian families. For those without EU citizenship, she advises finding out about visa requirements  and making sure documents are in order before seeking work.

Imagine walking into a room and a smile lights up someone's face just because you're there. You've just helped them get dressed or brought them a cup of tea. That feeling of gratitude and fulfillment is priceless. That's what makes working as a caregiver so special.

In Austria, you have the chance to experience this joy every day. As a 24-hour caregiver, you become part of a family and accompany people on their journey through life. You will witness moments big and small, smiles and tears. And you will realize: Your work makes a real difference.

What makes Austria so special for nurses?

• A warm community: You will become part of a large network of nurses who support each other and overcome challenges together.
• Multiple tasks: Your work is varied and offers you the opportunity to develop yourself further. Whether you specialize in caring for the elderly or are interested in working with people with disabilities - the possibilities are endless.
• Career opportunities: In Austria, you have excellent opportunities to advance your career. Numerous training opportunities and specialization programs are open to you. Imagine one day leading your own care team or developing innovative care concepts.
• Quality of life: Austria offers a high quality of life with beautiful nature, a rich culture and a stable economy. Here you can be happy not only professionally, but also privately.

What does noracares offer you?

For noracares you'll find more than just a job. We are your partner on the way to Austria. We support you with:

• The job search: On our platform, you will find the perfect job for you that matches your qualifications and wishes.
• The visa application: We inform you about bureaucratic formalities in our blog.
• The integration: We share via social media, leisure activities and offer you a network of other caregivers.
• Further education: We inform you about current training opportunities in our blog and support you with information for your professional development.

Why should you choose Austria?

• Sure future: The demand for nursing staff is high in Austria and will continue to rise in the future.
• Attractive compensation: You will receive a fair salary and numerous social benefits.
• Personal development: You have the opportunity to develop yourself personally and professionally.
• A fulfilling life: You become part of a community and can make an important contribution to society.

Nursing is a career field that is incredibly diverse and offers you numerous opportunities to specialize. Whether you are interested in the intensive care of seriously ill people in intensive care, supporting people with chronic illnesses such as in palliative care or promoting the independence of older people in geriatric care - the choice is entirely up to you. There are also exciting tasks and challenges in areas such as psychiatric care, oncological care or care for people with disabilities. Nursing is constantly evolving and always offers new opportunities for specialization, such as in digital healthcare  or in holistic care.

Are you ready for a new challenge?

Then get in touch with us! We look forward to getting to know you and helping you take the next step in your job search.

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Nora's FAQs

Relia's story shows that Romanian care workers can find not only financial security in Austria, but also a sense of purpose and community. The combination of high demand for care workers, attractive social benefits and opportunities for personal and professional development makes Austria an ideal destination for care workers. Her story is an example of how Austria offers more than just a career change - it's a place where caregivers like Relia can build fulfilling lives and build cultural bridges.

Through a well-supported network, rigorous training and a deep sense of her profession, Relia was able to transform her life and make Austria her second home. Her story serves as a guide and inspiration for other Romanian nurses who want to follow a similar path. It shows what opportunities Austria offers if you are prepared to take this rewarding path.

• 24-hour-care: A care model in which caregivers provide round-the-clock support for clients.

• ENIC-NARIC Austria: The institution responsible for the recognition of foreign qualifications in Austria.
• ÖIF (Austrian Integration Fund): An organization that offers integration and cultural courses for immigrants.
• noracares.at: A platform that connects caregivers with families and care services in Austria.