Corona Virus: Implications for Austrian Staff, Recent Developments Explained

The Corona virus raises many questions and uncertainties. What consequences does the COVID-19 have for my staff in Austria? At EuroDev we are dealing with European HR matters every day. With our experience, we try to answer your questions as clear as we can. Every country has their own measures regarding the Corona virus. We monitor the situation and have put all information together per country. If you employ people in Austria, the information below might help you with managing your Austrian staff.

*The information in the blog has the purpose to help the reader with gaining more knowledge and insights on the measures taken by the government. Please keep in mind that we have outlined basic rules. There might be specific terms, rules and regulations to each measure. As a result, EuroDev cannot guarantee any reimbursements or liabilities.  For more detailed information, please contact our experts.

General information

As of April 15 2020, there are 14,321 confirmed corona cases in Austria. 

In a press conference on 30 March, the Austrian government announced that Austria is tightening its measures to slow down the spread of the coronavirus. The most publicly visible change will be the compulsory use of masks in supermarkets.

Austria had already closed its borders to most arrivals from neighbouring Switzerland and Italy because of the coronavirus outbreaks there and is in the process of implementing measures to slow the disease’s spread, shutting schools and most shops other than those selling food and medicine.

As of April 14, thousands of shops have reopened in Austria, as it seeks to ease restrictions brought in to stem the spread of the coronavirus. Garden centres, DIY stores and small shops can open but with strict rules on social distancing and masks. All stores to reopen on 2 May. Restaurants to open in mid-May. GDP is predicted to fall by 7% in 2020. 

Employers and employees

The Austrian government presented a €38 billion support package for Austria’s economy. Of this amount, nine billion will go towards guarantees and liabilities to secure loans, 10 billion towards tax deferrals and 15 billion towards emergency aid to be paid out to “hardship cases.” The government has the ambition to maintain liquidity in the affected companies and to make sure that as many people as possible could keep their jobs. 

Short time work

For the next three months, working hours may be reduced to up to 10%, at 80 to 90% of normal pay. Employers will only pay the hours worked, the rest will be paid by the state.

In addition to these questions, you might have questions specific to your case and company. If you are looking for answers, we are happy to help. Schedule a 15-minute call with Monique Ramondt, VP of HR Outsourcing via the image below: