29 Jan 2025
Graz is a fascinating city in southern Austria that often flies under the radar compared to bigger cities like Vienna or Salzburg. However, this "hidden gem" perfectly blends history, culture, and modern living. It's an ideal destination for expats, students, and professionals alike. You can enjoy contemporary life's perks and send money back to your home country.
Graz offers a unique, laid-back atmosphere with its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant arts scene, and green spaces. The city is also home to top universities, making it a popular choice for students worldwide. For professionals, living in Graz presents exciting career opportunities in industries like technology, education, and automotive.
With its affordable cost of living, excellent public transport system, and welcoming community, settling in Austria is easy. Graz is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to start a new chapter in a beautiful, dynamic city. Let's discuss what you require to settle in Graz and what it is for foreigners.
Graz is a city that has it all—a perfect blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. It’s where you can stroll down cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old architecture one moment and step into a sleek, contemporary café or art gallery the next. This balance of old and new gives Graz a unique personality that’s hard to resist.
One of the reasons Graz stands out is its UNESCO recognition. Not only is it a World Cultural Heritage site, but it’s also been named a City of Design. With excellent Graz culture lifestyle and career options, you can send money online to your loved ones. Graz offers a little something for everyone, whether it’s the stunning medieval Old Town or cutting-edge design spaces.
Graz sits in an ideal spot in southeastern Austria, close to major destinations like Vienna, Slovenia, and Italy. You can find yourself exploring another country in just a few hours. It’s a fantastic hub for travel enthusiasts who want to see more of Europe without long journeys.
Graz is significantly more budget-friendly than cities like Vienna or Salzburg, using Graz expat tips. Housing, dining, and even entertainment are more reasonably priced. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or moving with your family, Graz allows you to stretch your budget further without sacrificing quality.
The good news is that this city offers a range of housing options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you prefer the independence of an apartment, the camaraderie of a shared flat, or the house space, there’s something for everyone here. Graz is divided into distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality. Where you choose to live will depend on your lifestyle and priorities.
If you love history, this neighborhood is a dream come true. The Old Town’s stunning architecture and cobblestone streets are straight out of a fairy tale. Living here and getting money transfer services to your family is affordable. You’ll be surrounded by cultural landmarks, trendy cafés, and shops, but keep in mind it’s one of the pricier areas.
This is the go-to spot for students, thanks to its proximity to the University of Graz and Graz University of Technology. Geidorf offers a lively atmosphere, plenty of parks, and a range of affordable apartments and shared flats. The Graz relocation guide helps you make more appropriate living choices.
Looking for something budget-friendly in Graz? Eggenberg is an up-and-coming neighborhood that’s easy on the wallet and well-connected by public transport. It's got an exciting vibe and excellent facilities for everyone.
Moving to a new country can feel exciting but also a bit overwhelming — especially when handling all the paperwork. In Austria, bureaucracy is a big part of getting settled and having online money transfer options. With the proper guidance, it’s manageable. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps you’ll need to navigate when settling in Graz.
One of the first things you’ll need to do after moving to Graz is register your address. This process is called the Meldezettel, and it’s required by law for everyone living in Austria. You’ll need the following things to do in Graz for this:
If you’re not an EU/EEA citizen, you’ll also need a residence permit to stay in Austria long-term and send money to your home country. If you’re coming from outside the EU, you may need a visa to enter Austria before applying for a residence permit. You can prepare your documents.
These usually include:
Now, you need to submit your application. You’ll do this at the local immigration office). The processing time can vary, so research should be done before moving to Austria.
Austria has a well-organized tax and social insurance system, and you’ll be part of it as a resident.
In most cases, utilities are not included in your rent. You’ll need to sign up with a local provider like Energie Steiermark. This can be done online or by phone. Austria has several reliable internet providers, such as A1, Magenta, and Drei.
You can compare plans for speed and price before signing a contract to save on and send money online. Most packages bundle the internet with TV and phone services. Utilities and internet bills are typically paid through direct debit from your bank account, so set up a local bank account as soon as possible.
Graz isn’t just a charming city to live in—it’s also a hub for professional growth. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, living in Graz has a range of opportunities waiting for you. Here’s what you need to know about your expat life in Graz. It is home to several thriving industries, each offering diverse job prospects:
Graz is often referred to as Austria’s Silicon Valley. It’s a hotspot for tech startups and established companies specializing in software development, AI, and green technologies. If you have skills in IT or engineering, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here.
With its multiple universities, including the University of Graz and Graz University of Technology, the city is a center for education and research. Academia, teaching, and administrative roles are common in this sector.
Graz plays a significant role in Austria’s automotive industry. If you have a good career opportunity in automotive, you can manage the cost of living in Graz. Companies like Magna Steyr are based here, making it an excellent destination for manufacturing, engineering, and innovation jobs within the auto sector.
Graz is home to various schools catering to local and international families. The Austrian education system offers high-quality public and private schooling. There are also international schools that teach in English and other languages. Expats can use these educational resources to help them send money to their families with promising careers.
Most children in Graz attend public schools offering a solid education in math, science, languages, and history. If you prefer your child to attend a school with an English-language curriculum, there are several international schools in Graz.
Graz is a vibrant student city for those pursuing higher education using Graz expat tips. The University of Graz is one of Austria's largest and oldest universities. It offers a wide range of humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and more programs. It’s well-known for its research and has a diverse student body from all over the world.
According to the Graz relocation guide, Graz has an excellent tram and bus system, which can get you almost anywhere in the city. Several tram lines run throughout the city, covering key areas like the city center, universities, and major residential neighborhoods. By settling in Austria or Graz, you can use the tram network.
Graz is also well-connected by regional trains, making traveling to nearby towns and cities easy. The central train station (Graz Hauptbahnhof) is just a short distance from the city center and is a hub for regional and national train services. This makes it easy to take a quick trip to nearby areas or even venture to other parts of Austria and beyond.
Graz is a bike-friendly city, and cycling is a popular way to get around and use money transfer services. Graz has an extensive network of dedicated bike lanes and bike paths that make cycling around the city safe and convenient.
If you don’t have a bike, you can easily rent one through Graz’s bike-sharing program. The city offers stations where you can pick up and drop off bikes, making it a flexible option for short trips around the city.
One of the significant advantages of living in Graz is its location. Not only is the city well-connected to other parts of Austria, but it’s also an excellent base for exploring nearby countries. Graz is just a 2.5-hour train ride from Vienna, Austria’s capital, where you can explore museums, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scenes.
Graz is only about an hour’s drive from the Slovenian border and 3 hours from Italy, making it easy to explore neighboring countries. This gives you a great opportunity for weekend trips to places like Ljubljana, Venice, or Trieste.
You can explore rich history with a vibrant, modern culture and affordable cost of living in Graz. Whether you’re a lover of art, food, or just good company, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this beautiful Austrian city. You can enjoy a lavish lifestyle and send money online to your loved ones.
Graz is home to fascinating museums and galleries, and moving to Austria is suitable for art lovers. The Kunsthaus Graz, with its eye-catching, futuristic design, is one of the city's major art venues where you can see Graz's culture and lifestyle.
If you’re into history, the Styrian Armoury is a must-visit, showcasing a massive collection of medieval weapons and armor. The Joanneum Quarter offers a blend of art, history, and science exhibitions for something more modern.
Food is a big part of life in Graz, and the city offers a variety of flavors, from traditional Austrian dishes to modern takes on local specialties. Graz is in the Styria region, famous for its fresh produce and distinctive flavors. You can’t leave without trying Backhendl (crispy fried chicken), a beloved local dish, or Surschopf (pickled pork), a unique regional specialty.
Living in Graz means you’re part of a welcoming and lively community, whether you’re meeting locals or want to experience expat life in Graz. You can also easily find online money transfer services. Although Austrians in Graz are generally friendly and welcoming, they may initially seem reserved. One great way to meet locals is through cafés or at local parks, as Graz has a vibrant outdoor café culture.
Thanks to its international universities and businesses, Graz is home to a growing expat community. Whether you're looking for other Americans or people from around the world, you'll find various expat meetups and groups through the Graz travel guide. The city’s international community often gathers at events, coffee shops, or local festivals. When you know things to do in Graz, making new connections is easy.
Austria has a high-quality healthcare system, which is publicly funded and available to all residents. The Austrian healthcare system is one of the best in Europe, offering a wide range of services from primary care to specialized treatments.
As a resident of Graz, you’ll be required to have health insurance. The country has a public health insurance system that covers most medical expenses. If you’re employed, health insurance is automatically deducted from your salary. Private health insurance options exist for more specialized care or faster access to services. This advantage cuts costs and helps you send money to your hometown.
Once you arrive in Graz, it’s a good idea to register with a local doctor, known as a Hausarzt (general practitioner). You can do this by choosing a doctor from a list of those accepting new patients. Most doctors speak English, so communication shouldn’t be a problem if you're not fluent in German.
There are plenty of gyms around Graz for those who prefer indoor workouts. Whether you’re into weightlifting, yoga, or group fitness classes, you’ll find options to suit your fitness needs. You can indulge in massages, saunas, and wellness treatments to help you unwind after a busy day. Graz is surrounded by beautiful nature, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and jogging in the city’s parks or nearby forests.
Moving to a new country can be both exciting and challenging. With its charming mix of history and modernity, Graz is a welcoming place to call home. But adjusting to life in a new city can take time. Here are some tips to help you settle in and make the most of your experience in Graz.
While many people in Graz speak English, learning German will help you feel more at home and improve your overall experience. This way, you can easily find online money transfer ways. Plenty of language schools in Graz offer German courses for all levels. The Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) provides affordable courses for newcomers. Additionally, YouTube channels and podcasts focused on German learning can help you get a feel for the language.
Austrian culture may differ from what you’re used to, but it’s also full of traditions and values that make life in Graz unique. Knowing local etiquette will help you feel more comfortable and avoid misunderstandings. Austrians tend to be formal and polite in their interactions, especially when meeting someone for the first time. Using titles like “Herr” (Mr.) and “Frau” (Mrs.) followed by a last name is common in professional or unfamiliar settings.
Making new friends and building a social network is one of Graz's best ways to feel at home. Luckily, the city has a welcoming international community and plenty of opportunities to meet locals and fellow expats. Groups like Graz Expats on Facebook and Internations have active communities where you can ask questions, share advice, and find reliable money transfer services.
Adjusting to a new culture can bring about some feelings of culture shock. It's normal to experience excitement and frustration as you adapt to a different way of life. Culture shock is a natural part of the relocation process, so don’t be too hard on yourself if things initially feel overwhelming.
Settling in Graz offers a unique blend of rich culture, modern amenities, and stunning landscapes. The city’s warm community, affordable living, and top-tier healthcare make it an ideal place to start a new chapter in your life. With a welcoming atmosphere, fantastic career opportunities, and endless cultural experiences, Graz is ready to become your home.
Take the time to immerse yourself in the local culture, connect with new friends, and explore all this charming city offers. Embrace its beauty, history, and vibrant lifestyle using the Graz travel guide. These benefits help you live a fantastic lifestyle and send money online to your loved ones online.
If you need more resources, numerous local websites, expat groups, and support organizations can help you navigate your move and life in Graz. Take the first step today and start your adventure in this hidden gem of Austria.
As you settle into life in Graz, ACE Money Transfer makes sending money to your family back home easy. ACE's fast, reliable, and affordable services fulfill all your money transfer needs!
Graz is generally more affordable than cities like Vienna and Salzburg. Rent, groceries, and dining out are cheaper here, making it a good choice for those looking for a lower cost of living without sacrificing quality of life.
To find affordable housing in Graz, check online property listings on websites like Willhaben and Immobilienscout24. You can also work with local real estate agents to find rental options that fit your budget.
While many people in Graz speak English, learning German is highly recommended. It’ll make daily life easier, help you build relationships, and open up more job opportunities, especially in local businesses.
For expat children, schools like the International School of Graz and American International School offer high-quality education in English. These schools provide international curriculums and are great options for families new to the area.
To register your residence, visit the local Meldeamt (registration office) within three days of moving to Graz. You must bring your passport, proof of address, and a completed registration form. If you're staying long-term, you must apply for a residence permit at the local immigration office.
