The legal framework establishes clear rules. Sex workers must register with local authorities (Meldeamt) and obtain a valid registration certificate (“Anzeigebestätigung” or “Prostituierten-Ausweis”). This involves providing identification and proof of legal residency status. Operating without this registration is illegal. Third-party involvement, such as brothel management (“Bordellbetrieb”) or procurement (“Zuhälterei”), is strictly regulated and often prohibited under laws against exploitation. Solicitation (“Aufdringliches Anbieten”) in public spaces that causes a nuisance is forbidden and can be penalized. The law aims to decriminalize the individual worker while combating exploitation, trafficking, and illegal operations. Compliance with health regulations is mandatory. This legalization model focuses on harm reduction, worker safety, and public order within defined parameters.

Where are the main areas or establishments?

Feldkirch does not have a traditional, concentrated “red-light district” like larger cities. Services are offered discreetly through:

• Licensed Brothels/Clubs: A small number of licensed establishments operate within the city, adhering strictly to zoning and regulatory requirements. These venues provide controlled environments.
• Private Apartments (“Wohnungsprostitution”): Independent sex workers or small collectives operate from private residences, often requiring prior contact or referral.
• Online Portals: Websites and specialized directories (e.g., specific sections on platforms like Kaufmich, Laufhaus, or regional directories) are the predominant way sex workers advertise services, locations (incall/outcall), rates, and contact methods in Feldkirch. Listings typically include photos, services offered, and availability.
• Escort Services: Some agencies or independent escorts offer outcalls to hotels or private residences.

What are the typical costs involved?

Pricing varies significantly based on service duration, type, location (incall/outcall), and the individual worker. There is no fixed rate. As a general guide (subject to change):

• Basic Service (Short Session): Often starts around €50-€100.
• Standard Service (e.g., 30-60 minutes): Commonly ranges between €100 and €200.
• Extended Sessions/Special Requests: Can range from €200 upwards, potentially significantly higher for premium services or extended time.
• Outcall Fees: Often include an additional charge for travel to the client’s location.

Prices should always be clearly agreed upon beforehand. Transparency is key to avoiding misunderstandings. Payment is usually expected upfront in cash.

Are health checks mandatory?

Yes. Registered sex workers are legally required to undergo regular medical examinations for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The frequency is mandated by law (typically monthly). They receive a health passbook (“Gesundheitspass” or “Kontrollkarte”) documenting these check-ups, issued by authorized public health doctors (“Amtsärzte”). Clients can request to see this current passbook as proof of compliance. Workers testing positive for certain reportable STIs are prohibited from working until cleared by a doctor.

What safety measures are in place?

Safety is a major concern addressed through regulation and practice:

• Condom Mandate: The use of condoms is legally required for all sexual intercourse within prostitution services in Austria. Most workers strictly enforce this.
• Establishment Security: Licensed venues have security protocols, which may include CCTV, panic buttons, or security personnel.
• Independent Worker Safety: Independent workers often employ safety practices like screening clients (brief chat before meeting), informing a colleague about appointments, meeting in public first, or using safe call systems. Trusted networks sometimes exist for sharing safety information.
• Legal Protection: Sex workers have the same legal rights as other citizens. Assault, theft, or non-payment are criminal offenses that should be reported to the police.

What about migrant sex workers?

A significant proportion of sex workers in Austria, including Feldkirch, come from other countries, primarily within the EU (especially Eastern Europe) but also from further afield. Legal registration requires proof of the right to reside and work in Austria/EU. However, the industry can attract vulnerable migrants, increasing risks of exploitation, trafficking, or working illegally outside the protective framework of registration and health checks. Support organizations focus heavily on this group.

Is human trafficking a concern?

While the Austrian legal model aims to combat trafficking by bringing prostitution into a regulated space, trafficking for sexual exploitation remains a serious concern globally and within Austria. Indicators include workers with controlled movement, lack of control over money/passports, signs of physical abuse, or extreme fear. Austrian authorities (police, NGOs) actively work to identify and support trafficking victims. Public awareness and reporting suspicions are crucial. The legal framework provides a channel for registered workers to seek help more easily.

What is the public perception like?

Public opinion in Feldkirch, as in much of Austria, is mixed. There is general acceptance of the legal status, but also stigma associated with sex work, concerns about neighborhood impacts (related to specific establishments), and ongoing debate about whether the legal model sufficiently protects workers or inadvertently facilitates exploitation. Discussions often focus on zoning, visibility, and the effectiveness of support services.

Accessing support is vital for well-being and safety:

• SISTERS – Counselling Centre for Prostituted Women: Part of the Verein SISTERS network operating in Vorarlberg. Offers confidential counselling, health information, legal advice, support with registration, and exit assistance for women in prostitution. They may offer outreach or appointments in Feldkirch/region (Note: Verify current local contact points).
• Checkpoint Vorarlberg / Aidshilfe Vorarlberg: Provides low-threshold sexual health services, including free and anonymous STI testing (HIV, Hepatitis, Syphilis, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea), counselling, and free condoms. Crucial for both sex workers and clients. Located in Feldkirch (Reichsstraße 84).
• Women’s Shelter Feldkirch (Frauenhaus Feldkirch): Provides emergency shelter and support for women (and their children) fleeing violence, including violence experienced in the context of prostitution or trafficking.
• Police (Polizei): Should be contacted in emergencies (133) or to report crimes (assault, theft, coercion, suspected trafficking). They are mandated to enforce the law, including protecting sex workers from exploitation and crime.
• Public Health Office (Amtsarzt): Responsible for conducting the mandatory health check-ups for registered sex workers and issuing health passbooks.
• Municipal Social Services (Stadt Feldkirch – Sozialamt): May offer general social support, advice on benefits, or referrals to specialized services.

These organizations operate with confidentiality and aim to provide non-judgmental support. Many resources are also available online in German.

• “It’s illegal or unregulated.” False. It’s a legally recognized and regulated profession under Austrian law.
• “All sex workers are victims or trafficked.” Misleading. While trafficking and exploitation are serious problems requiring vigilance, many registered sex workers are consenting adults making an informed (though often economically constrained) choice within the legal framework.
• “Health risks are uncontrollable.” False. The mandatory health check system and strict condom mandate significantly mitigate risks. Regular testing is the norm for registered workers.
• “It’s only visible on the streets.” False. Street prostitution is illegal and practically non-existent in Feldkirch. The industry operates primarily indoors (brothels, apartments) and online.
• “Clients are all deviant or dangerous.” False. Clients come from diverse backgrounds. The legal framework aims to create safer interactions for both parties.

To register legally:

1. Eligibility: Must be at least 18 years old and have the legal right to reside and work in Austria.
2. Documents: Valid photo ID (Passport, National ID), proof of residence in Austria (Meldezettel), and proof of legal work status (e.g., EU citizenship proof, valid residence permit).
3. Application: Visit the Meldeamt (Registration Office) in Feldkirch. Inform them you wish to register as a sex worker (“Prostituierte/Prostituierter”).
4. Registration Certificate: Upon verification of documents, you will receive an “Anzeigebestätigung” (Notification Confirmation) or “Prostituierten-Ausweis” (Prostitute ID Card). This is your legal permit.
5. Health Registration: Take the registration certificate to the Public Health Office (Amtsarzt) to initiate the mandatory health check process and obtain your health passbook.

Registration must be renewed periodically (check current regulations). Operating without this registration is illegal and carries penalties. Support organizations like SISTERS can assist with the process.

While sex work itself is legal, numerous activities surrounding it are criminalized to prevent exploitation:

• Procurement (§ 104a StGB): Exploiting someone’s predicament or inexperience to induce them into prostitution, or exerting undue influence over a prostitute concerning the place, time, extent, or manner of their work, especially to gain a financial benefit from their earnings. This is illegal “Zuhälterei”.
• Human Trafficking (§ 104 StGB): Recruiting, transporting, transferring, harbouring, or receiving persons through coercion, deception, or abuse of power for the purpose of sexual exploitation (including prostitution). Severe penalties apply.
• Exploitative Brothel Operation: Operating a brothel where workers are exploited, lack autonomy, or are forced to hand over excessive portions of earnings can fall under procurement or trafficking laws.
• Coercion & Exploitation of Minors: Any involvement of minors (under 18) in prostitution is strictly illegal and constitutes severe sexual abuse. Coercing any person into prostitution is illegal.

The legal model aims to protect the individual sex worker acting autonomously while aggressively prosecuting those who exploit, coerce, or traffic individuals into the industry. Registration helps authorities distinguish between independent workers and potential victims of exploitation.