Legal

Law in Austria

Sex workers in Austria are considered ‘new self-employed’. In addition to the general obligations of self-employed persons in Austria (insurance, tax, etc.), the following federal laws apply specifically to the group of sex workers:

• Section 11 (2) and (4): Sexually Transmitted Diseases Act
• Section 4 (1): AIDS Act

Examination requirement

Sex workers must have regular vaginal examinations at six-week intervals and blood tests every three months. At the first examination, you will receive a health book (also known as a ‘Deckel’). This is an official document. It contains a photo and your real name.

During the examinations, you will be tested for four different sexually transmitted diseases using a Pap smear. If you have one of these diseases, your health book will be retained by the authorities. You will only get it back after the disease has healed. This is the only way you can legally work.

If the examination reveals an HIV infection, you are no longer allowed to work as a sex worker.

Police checks

The police are allowed to check your identity. If you do not have Austrian citizenship, you must carry a form of identification (e.g. passport) with you and show it upon request. When you are working, you must carry your health book (the card or ‘Deckel’). The police are also allowed to check your registration form.

These are your rights:

• If you feel you have been treated unfairly, ask the person carrying out the check for their service number.
• Do not sign any document that you do not understand or that does not appear correct to you.
• If there is something you do not understand, ask for a translation.
• If you are questioned as a victim or as a suspect, you also have the right to a translation.
• If you are given a penalty, you can appeal within 14 days. Your penalty will then be reviewed to ensure that it is justified.

If you need support, please contact our counselling centre.