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Austria – Visas

Visa Regulations for Entering Austria:

Visitors to Austria must meet certain visa requirements, depending on the length of their stay and the purpose of their visit. The most important rules to be aware of in relation to visas include:

  1. Schengen Area visa: Visitors from some countries, including the US, Canada, and most European countries, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area, which includes Austria. Other visitors must obtain a Schengen Area visa.

  2. National visa: Visitors who wish to stay in Austria for more than 90 days must obtain a national visa.

  3. Business visa: Visitors coming to Austria for business purposes must obtain a business visa.

  4. Student visa: Visitors coming to Austria to study must obtain a student visa.

  5. Work visa: Visitors coming to work in Austria must obtain a work visa.

Visitors can successfully navigate these regulations by ensuring they have all required documents, including a passport with validity beyond their intended stay, and proof of sufficient funds. They should also check the regulations specific to their country of origin and the purpose of their visit.

Types of visas available in Austria:

  1. Schengen Area visa: For visitors coming to Austria for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.

  2. National visa: For visitors coming to Austria for stays of more than 90 days.

  3. Business visa: For visitors coming to Austria for business purposes.

  4. Student visa: For visitors coming to Austria to study.

  5. Work visa: For visitors coming to work in Austria.

Visa Exemptions in Austria:

Citizens of some countries, including the US, Canada, and most European countries, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area, which includes Austria.

Relationship Between Visas and Residency in Austria

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Visitors who wish to reside in Austria for an extended period of time must obtain a national visa. This allows them to stay in Austria for a specified period of time and can eventually lead to permanent residency and citizenship.

Reliable Information on Visas for Entry Into Austria:


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  1. The Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.bmeia.gv.at/

  2. The Austrian Embassy or Consulate in your country of origin.

  3. The official Austrian Government website: https://www.austria.org/visa/.

To enter Austria, you may need a visa, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. Before you apply, check if you need a visa at the following website: https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/consular-services/entry-and-residence/entry-residence-requirements-for-foreign-citizens/

It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your planned travel date, as the processing time can vary.

Where to Apply for a Visa for Austria

US expats can apply for a visa at the Embassy of Austria in Washington D.C. or at the Consulate General of Austria in New York.

UK expats can apply for a visa at the Embassy of Austria in London.

You can find a complete list of the Austrian missions worldwide at the following website: https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/our-missions/our-missions-abroad/

Documents Required for a Visa Application

The required documents vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Some common documents include a valid passport, a completed visa application form, proof of financial means, travel insurance, and a letter of invitation if applicable. You can find a complete list of required documents at the following website: https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/consular-services/entry-and-residence/entry-residence-requirements-for-foreign-citizens/

Translations may be necessary if the documents are not in German, English or French.

Application Processing Time

The processing time for a visa application can vary depending on the type of visa, the time of year, and the individual circumstances of each case. It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your planned travel date to allow for sufficient processing time.

Cost of a visa for Austria

The fee for a visa for Austria varies depending on the type of visa and the purpose of your stay. You can find the most up-to-date information on the fees at the following website: https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/consular-services/fees/

In addition to the visa fee, there may be additional costs such as travel insurance, medical examinations, or criminal background checks.