Austria – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Austria, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Austria’s country code is 43, which is used whenever someone calls Austria from another country. To reach an Austrian number from abroad, you combine your local international access code (typically 00 or +) with 43, followed by the area code or mobile prefix — dropping the leading zero — and then the subscriber number. In shorthand: exit code → 43 → area code (without its leading zero) → local number.

One feature of the Austrian numbering system that often surprises newcomers is that neither area codes nor subscriber numbers follow a single fixed length. Some subscriber numbers are as short as three digits. Larger population centres tend to have shorter area codes, which in turn allows for longer subscriber numbers within those localities. If you are accustomed to a uniform number format, this variability may take some getting used to.

When placing an international call to Austria, remember to drop the initial zero from the area code. Calls made within the same town or city do not require the area code at all. Vienna, for instance, has the local area code 01, but when dialling from outside Austria this becomes simply 1 — giving the full international format +43 1 XXXXXXX.

The table below shows the area codes for Austria’s principal cities and the locations most frequented by expatriates:

For calls within Austria, dial the area code followed by the subscriber number — for example, 1 2345678 for a Vienna landline, or 660 1234567 for a mobile number. When dialling internationally, use your exit code, then 43, the area code or mobile prefix without its leading zero, and finally the subscriber number.

Austrian mobile numbers begin with 06xx ranges, rendered internationally as +43 6…, and are assigned by operator-specific prefixes. Because mobile number portability has been available since 2008, a prefix indicates the original allocation but not necessarily which carrier currently serves that number — simply dial the full number as given. Frequently encountered mobile prefixes include 0664 (A1), 0676 (Magenta), and 0660/0699 (Drei).

For directory enquiries within Austria, you can ring 11 88 77 or 11 8 11 — both services carry a charge. Emergency services are accessible on 112 (the EU-wide number), 133 (police), 122 (fire brigade), and 144 (ambulance).

Who are the major landline providers in Austria, and how can you contact them?

Austria’s fixed-line market is competitive, and most providers package internet access, cable television, and telephone service into a single combined offering. While it is technically possible to order these components separately, the financial advantage of doing so is minimal. As a result, the overwhelming majority of newcomers opt for an all-in-one home bundle rather than a standalone landline.

The leading fixed-line service providers in Austria are:

• A1 Telekom Austria — A1 commands the largest share of the Austrian telecoms market, holding over 35% as the successor to the former state-owned operator PTV. Its portfolio covers landline, broadband, and television bundles. Website: a1.net. Customer service: 0800 664 100 (free from within Austria). Customers can also manage their accounts via the A1 app or by visiting one of the company’s many retail stores.
• Magenta Telekom — In May 2019, T-Mobile Austria merged with cable operator UPC and rebranded as Magenta Telekom. This background gives Magenta particular strength in areas formerly covered by UPC’s cable network, notably in larger cities. The company provides mobile plans, broadband, fibre, television, and landline services. Website: magenta.at. Customer service: +43 50 6709090.
• Drei (Hutchison Drei Austria) — Primarily recognised as a mobile operator, Drei has extended its offering to include home internet and bundled landline packages delivered via cable and mobile broadband infrastructure. Website: drei.at. Customer service: +43 50 660.
• Tele2 Austria — An additional option for home telephony and broadband that has gained a following in certain urban areas. Consult tele2.at to check current availability at your specific address.

A notable advantage for newly arrived expats is that Austria’s major telecoms providers generally offer multilingual customer support. A1, Magenta, and Drei all provide assistance in English alongside German, which is reassuring if your German is still at an early stage.

Because tariffs change regularly, always consult each provider’s official website for current pricing and plan details rather than relying on third-party listings without a clear publication date. Consumer rights and oversight of universal service obligations in the sector rest with the national telecoms regulator, Rundfunk und Telekom Regulierungs-GmbH (RTR), whose consumer resources are available at rtr.at.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Austria, and how can you contact them?

While Austria has only three mobile network operators that own and operate their own physical infrastructure — A1 Telekom Austria, Magenta Telekom, and Hutchison Drei Austria — the mobile market is far broader than this suggests. Austria has a well-established MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) ecosystem in which virtual providers lease capacity from the three main networks. There are currently more than 30 mobile providers in Austria, translating into upwards of 300 different tariffs to choose from.

The three main network operators are:

With 99% population coverage, A1 is widely regarded as the most dependable network, particularly in mountainous and rural regions. That said, Magenta and Drei have closed the gap considerably in recent years and both deliver excellent reception across the vast majority of Austria. For expats settling in the country’s main urban centres — Vienna, Graz, Salzburg, Innsbruck — the quality difference between all three networks is negligible in day-to-day use.

Mobile data pricing in Austria is among the most affordable in Central Europe. The abundance of unlimited data packages aimed at mobile broadband users — partly a response to the relative scarcity of fast or inexpensive fixed-line connections in some rural areas — helps keep prices competitive. For certain households, mobile data represents a practical primary internet solution.

Beyond the three major networks, popular MVNOs operating in Austria include:

• HoT (Hofer Telekom) — prepaid and no-contract plans running on Magenta’s network, sold at HOFER (Aldi) supermarkets. Website: hot.at
• YESSS! — prepaid plans operating on the A1 network. Website: yesss.at
• spusu — competitively priced SIM-only plans on the Drei network. Website: spusu.at
• Bob — unlimited data offerings using the Drei network. Website: bob.at
• Lycamobile — an internationally operating MVNO with budget-friendly prepaid plans, particularly well-suited to those who make frequent calls abroad. Website: lycamobile.at

MVNOs generally do not match the coverage of the three main networks in remote or sparsely populated areas, but within towns and cities they frequently offer identical reception quality at a lower monthly cost.

For accurate, up-to-date pricing, check each provider’s official website directly. As a broad reference point, as of early 2026, entry-level plans from A1, Magenta, and Drei begin at around €20 per month — but this figure is subject to change. Independent comparison platforms such as tarife.at and checkeverything.at are useful tools for evaluating current plans side by side.

How do I get a landline connected in Austria?

Arranging a fixed-line connection in Austria is a manageable process, broadly similar to what you would encounter in other Western European countries. You select a provider, agree on a plan, and arrange an installation or activation date. Whether you rent or own your home can influence how smoothly this goes, particularly if new wiring is required.

1. Check availability in your area. Use the postcode or address checkers on the websites of A1, Magenta, or other providers to see which technologies — fibre, cable, DSL — are accessible at your specific address. Austria’s broadband infrastructure continues to expand, with a national strategy targeting gigabit-capable connections across the country by 2030, but speeds currently vary depending on your location.
2. Choose your package. Most providers combine internet, cable television, and a landline into a single bundle. The price difference between a bundle and individually ordered services is typically negligible, so comparing bundled offers is the most practical approach.
3. Contact the provider. You can register online, over the phone, or in person at a provider’s retail outlet. If your German is limited or you find the online forms confusing, visiting a store and requesting English-speaking assistance is a reliable option — the major operators all provide multilingual support.
4. Prepare your documents. You will generally need a valid photo ID (passport or national identity card), confirmation of your Austrian address (such as a lease agreement or a recent utility bill), and your bank account details for direct debit setup. If you have a Meldezettel — the official certificate confirming your registered address in Austria — keep it to hand, as it significantly streamlines the application.
5. Arrange installation or line activation. Contract durations typically range from one to two years. If your new home already has compatible cabling in place, which is common in newer or recently refurbished buildings, remote activation may be possible within a few days. If a technician visit is required, allow one to three weeks — check current lead times directly with your chosen provider when placing the order.
6. Check whether installation fees apply. Some providers charge an installation fee, though this is frequently waived or discounted when you take a bundled package that includes television and telephone alongside broadband.
7. Register your connection. Once the service is live, log in to your provider’s online portal or mobile app to manage your account, review bills, and configure your payment method.

If you are renting, review your tenancy agreement and speak with your landlord before placing an order, as some buildings already have existing infrastructure tied to a particular provider. Standard residential contracts in Austria do not usually require a deposit, though providers may carry out a credit check for new customers — particularly those without an established Austrian payment history. For guidance on your consumer rights, consult the RTR (rtr.at).

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Austria?

There are two main paths to mobile connectivity in Austria: prepaid (Wertkarte) SIM cards and postpaid (contract) plans. Prepaid SIMs give you greater flexibility than a fixed-term contract, which makes them an appealing first step for expats who have just arrived. The trade-off is that prepaid rates for calls, SMS, and data tend to be higher per unit than those on a contract. They work well for light users and are a sensible choice if you are uncertain about the length of your stay.

Prepaid SIM cards: You can purchase prepaid SIMs directly from A1, Magenta, and Drei stores, as well as from supermarkets, tobacconists, mobile phone retailers, electronics chains, and petrol stations. Electronics stores such as MediaMarkt and Saturn stock SIM cards for all the main Austrian operators, and chains like Spar and Billa carry prepaid packs from select providers. One practical tip: avoid buying a SIM at the airport, where additional charges are commonly applied. A city-centre store or supermarket will give you better value.

SIM registration is mandatory: Austrian law requires all SIM cards to be registered. To complete registration you will need a valid form of photo identification — a passport is the most universally accepted document. If you prefer to order a SIM online, registration forms part of the activation process and must be completed before the card becomes active. This requirement mirrors rules in force across most of the EU, so if you are accustomed to buying an unregistered SIM in your home country, be aware that this is not an option in Austria.

Postpaid (contract) plans: For those intending to remain in Austria for a year or more, a postpaid plan typically offers the best value: lower per-unit rates, the option to spread the cost of a handset, and access to additional benefits. To sign a postpaid contract you will generally need a valid photo ID (passport or EU identity card), proof of your Austrian address (either a Meldezettel or a rental agreement), and a local bank account for the direct debit mandate. Newcomers who have not yet registered their address or opened an Austrian bank account may find themselves restricted to prepaid options initially — this is a practical consequence of documentation requirements rather than any deliberate barrier.

Contract terms typically run from one to two years. The Austrian mobile market is competitive enough that switching providers is straightforward, so you are not permanently tied to your first choice. Visit individual provider websites or speak to an in-store adviser to compare current plans, and use independent platforms like tarife.at for an impartial overview of what is available.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Austria?

Settling your phone bill in Austria is a simple affair, with payment options broadly comparable to those in other Western European countries. Both landline and mobile accounts are billed on a monthly cycle.

Direct debit (Lastschrift / SEPA-Lastschrift) is the dominant payment method. When you sign a contract, you will normally provide your Austrian bank account IBAN so that the provider can collect payment automatically each month. All major operators use this as their default arrangement, and it is by far the most convenient option for residents who have a local account.

Online portals and apps: A1, Magenta, and Drei each provide online customer portals and smartphone apps that allow you to view invoices, monitor usage, and make one-off payments by card or bank transfer. These tools are especially useful in the early days after arrival, before a direct debit has been established.

In-person payments: Some providers accept bill payments at their own retail stores, at Österreichische Post (Austrian Post) branches, or over the counter at banks. A number of providers also permit payment at tobacconists (Tabak-Trafik), which serve as payment points for various household bills throughout Austria.

Prepaid top-ups: If you are on a prepaid plan, credit can be added online, through a provider’s app, or by purchasing a top-up voucher at a supermarket or petrol station. Voucher denominations are typically €10, €20, or €30.

Late payment and disconnection: Austrian providers must give customers advance notice before suspending service for non-payment, and the RTR sets standards for fair contractual terms. If you believe a bill is incorrect or wish to raise a complaint that your provider has not satisfactorily resolved, you can seek guidance from RTR (rtr.at). Specific policies on late payment charges vary between providers — consult your contract’s general terms and conditions (Allgemeine Geschäftsbedingungen, or AGB) for the details that apply to your agreement.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Austria as a newcomer?

EU roaming: Since June 2017, all Austrian mobile plans have included EU roaming at no additional charge. You can use your Austrian SIM freely across EU and EEA member states without incurring extra roaming fees. Bear in mind, however, that “permanent roaming” — using an Austrian SIM as your primary connection while living full-time in another country — may be subject to fair use restrictions. If your lifestyle involves extended periods abroad, review the roaming terms of your specific plan before committing.

Network quality: Independent testing has assigned overall scores of 1.19 for A1, 1.21 for Magenta, and 1.30 for Drei — placing all three operators firmly in the “very good” category. Austria’s varied terrain, which ranges from Alpine peaks to flat river plains and lakeside towns, has encouraged providers to innovate and treat the country as a proving ground for new technologies. Mobile penetration stands at around 97%, a figure that reflects the reliability and reach of the networks. You can, for example, maintain a solid mobile signal while travelling by tram in Innsbruck.

5G availability: Austria’s 5G rollout is nearing completion. In surveyed cities, general 5G availability across all three operators stands at between 96 and 98 percent. If you are based in Vienna, Graz, Salzburg, or Innsbruck, 5G speeds are readily within reach provided you have a compatible device.

eSIMs: All three major operators now support eSIM technology, which is particularly convenient if you arrive before a physical SIM is delivered, or if you wish to run a foreign number alongside an Austrian one on the same device. A1 offers eSIM on iPhones and selected Android handsets across both prepaid and postpaid plans. Magenta supports eSIM primarily on iPhones and some Android models, mainly for postpaid customers. Drei introduced eSIM support for iPhones in 2022, initially on prepaid plans with postpaid support planned for the future. Activation typically involves scanning a QR code provided by the operator, which configures your cellular plan directly on the device without requiring a visit to a store.

Number porting: Mobile number portability has been available in Austria since 2008, enabling customers to carry their number with them when switching operators. Once a porting request has been submitted to the new provider — along with a copy of your ID and your existing number — the transfer generally completes within one to three business days. This is broadly in line with most EU countries, though a handful of markets such as the Netherlands process ports within a matter of hours. The process is entirely handled by the new provider once you have initiated it.

Keeping a foreign number: It is not possible to port a non-Austrian number directly onto an Austrian network — number portability within Austria applies exclusively to existing Austrian numbers. If you want ongoing access to your foreign number, the practical solution is to keep a prepaid SIM from your home country active alongside your Austrian SIM, or use a VoIP service to maintain a virtual foreign number.

Local terminology: In Austria, mobile phones are colloquially known as “Handys” (pronounced “HAN-dy”) — a term borrowed into German from English but used differently than in English-speaking countries. You will frequently hear shop assistants and colleagues refer to your smartphone as a Handy. Fixed-line telephones, meanwhile, are called “Festnetz” (literally, fixed network).

Avoiding overpriced airport SIMs: As mentioned above, purchasing a SIM at the airport almost always involves a price premium. For the best deal, make your way to a city-centre provider store or a local supermarket once you have arrived and settled in.

Frequently asked questions about telephone services in Austria

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Austria?

Porting a foreign number directly onto an Austrian network is not possible — Austria’s number portability framework applies only to numbers already assigned within the Austrian system. If you want to keep your foreign number reachable, the best approach is to maintain a low-cost prepaid SIM from your home country alongside your Austrian SIM, or to use a VoIP service to retain a virtual version of that number. Once you have an Austrian mobile number, you can transfer it between Austrian operators freely.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Austria?

For a prepaid SIM, a valid photo ID — typically a passport — is the primary requirement, and a local address is not always strictly necessary for basic registration, though individual providers may ask for one. For a postpaid contract, you will usually need to provide proof of an Austrian address (such as a Meldezettel or a signed rental agreement) as well as a local bank account for direct debit payments.

Can tourists or short-term visitors get a SIM card in Austria?

Yes. Tourists can purchase prepaid SIM cards using their passport as identification — no Austrian address or residence permit is required. All major providers and many MVNOs offer no-contract prepaid plans, and a growing number also provide flexible monthly rolling options for those not wishing to commit to a longer term. Registration of the SIM card using your passport remains mandatory regardless of visitor status.

How long does it take to get a landline or home broadband connection set up?

If the building already has appropriate infrastructure in place — common in centrally located apartments — remote activation can occur within a matter of days. When a technician visit is required to install or upgrade cabling, the typical wait is one to three weeks. Contract durations generally range from one to two years. For the most accurate lead time estimate, check directly with your chosen provider at the time of ordering.

Is English-language customer support available from Austrian telecom providers?

Yes. A1, Magenta, and Drei all provide multilingual customer support that includes English, making it straightforward for newcomers who have not yet developed confidence in German. Online account management portals are primarily in German, although the providers’ apps frequently offer language settings that include English.

Which mobile network is best for rural areas and the Austrian Alps?

A1 offers the widest coverage at 99% of the population and is generally considered the most dependable choice in remote, mountainous, or sparsely populated regions. If you are living in or frequently visiting areas such as the Tyrol, Carinthia, or the Styrian highlands, A1 is the safest option for consistent connectivity. Magenta and Drei remain strong alternatives in and around populated areas and most urban centres.

What is an MVNO and should I consider one in Austria?

An MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) is a provider that does not own its own physical network but instead leases capacity from one of the three main operators — A1, Magenta, or Drei — and resells it, often at lower prices. Well-known Austrian MVNOs include HoT, YESSS!, spusu, and Bob. Coverage in rural or mountainous areas may not match that of the host network, but in cities and towns MVNOs frequently deliver identical service quality at a meaningfully reduced monthly cost, making them an attractive choice for urban residents looking to cut their phone bill.

Who regulates telephone services in Austria, and where can I go if I have a complaint?

Telecommunications services in Austria are overseen by the Rundfunk und Telekom Regulierungs-GmbH (RTR), which is responsible for monitoring universal service obligations, reviewing providers’ general terms and conditions, and protecting consumer rights in the sector. If your provider has failed to resolve a complaint to your satisfaction, you can escalate the matter to RTR through their official website at rtr.at. RTR also publishes consumer information guides and tariff comparison resources to help residents make well-informed decisions.