Although housing in Vienna is generally more affordable than in other major European capitals, the housing market has become increasingly competitive in recent years. For international students in particular, finding suitable accommodation can therefore be challenging and time-consuming. We strongly recommend starting your search as soon as you receive your admission letter from TU Wien – ideally as early as possible, as finding the right place can take several months.

When searching for accommodation, always make sure to check listings carefully and be cautious when responding to offers. Vienna is divided into 23 districts, each with its own character and advantages. The inner districts (1–9) are located close to the city centre and offer a lively atmosphere, historic surroundings and excellent public transport connections. The outer districts (10–23) tend to be quieter and greener while still providing good infrastructure and reliable connections to the city centre.

Paying a security deposit is standard when renting accommodation in Vienna. However, you should only transfer the deposit after you have signed the rental contract. For further guidance, our Housing Guide provides an overview of useful housing platforms, student residences by district and practical tips for tenants.

Registering Your Residence

Once you arrive in Vienna, you must register your residence (Meldezettel) within three days. To do so, you will need your passport or other valid identification document and a completed registration form (Meldezettel) signed by your landlord. Make sure to keep your registration confirmation (Meldebestätigung) and the receipt for any fees, as these documents may be required for further administrative procedures. When presenting a foreign passport or document for the first time, a certificate fee of up to €42 may apply.

Planning ahead and starting your housing search early will make the process considerably easier and give you more options when choosing where to live in Vienna.