Dates, applications etc.

AMS changes: The unemployed have new duties

Communication between the Public Employment Service Austria (AMS) and its customers is being put on a new footing. And there are also new obligations for the unemployed.

In future, online first will apply to applications for unemployment benefit. In future, communication between the AMS and its customers will primarily take place electronically, the Social Affairs Committee agreed on Thursday.

Personal visit mandatory for first application
However, those who are unable to do so may continue to submit their application in person. Only the first application or a new application after two years will be required to be made in person, writes the parliamentary correspondence.

Mandatory checking of electronic submissions
In future, unemployed people will have to check their electronic entries at least twice a week. However, sanctions will only be imposed if someone misses an appointment. In future, documents will be deemed to have been delivered as soon as they have been received in the unemployed person's electronic access area.

New regulations from July 1, 2025
The new regulations are to come into force on July 1, 2025 to allow the AMS to make the technical preparations. In individual cases, the AMS may also require a personal appearance in future.

The law still has to be passed in plenary. The ÖVP, Greens and NEOS voted in favor in committee.