austria tourist visa apply

Applying for a visa

Table of content, general information.

Third‑country nationals subject to a passport requirement are generally subject to a visa requirement when entering Austria and throughout the duration of their stay. Exceptions may be agreed upon at EU level, for example by means of an Austrian federal law or an agreement between countries. Consult the → list of visa requirements on the website of the Federal Ministry of the Interior to check which third‑country nationals may enter the country without a visa.

More detailed information about the visa types can also be found at oesterreich.gv.at.

Requirements

General principles and requirements for the issue of visas:

• visa application form
• a travel document valid in Austria, with a validity period exceeding the duration of the visa by at least three months and with at least two empty pages, that was issued within the last ten years
• a passport photo (portrait format, 35 x 45  mm ) in accordance with the specified passport photo criteria
• presentation of an fully comprehensive travel health insurance policy for the planned duration of the stay (amount of cover: 30.000 Euro, valid for the entire Schengen area)
• proof of sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the intended stay and for the return journey to the country of origin or residence
• other evidence requested by the relevant authorities (hotel reservations, invitations, booking confirmations, return flight ticket, proof of gainful employment etc. ) – as these are adapted to local standards and coordinated with other Schengen representations, the evidence to be provided may vary depending on location
• absence of other grounds for refusal (residence prohibition, alert issued by a Schengen country)

Depending on the circumstances, additional documents may be requested. Please contact the Austrian representation (→ BMEIA ) in advance for more information.

Competent authority

Generally speaking, all visa types are issued by representation offices (→ BMEIA ) abroad or, in specific exceptional cases, by certain border control posts or, where extension of the visa is permitted, by the state police headquarters (Landespolizeidirektion).

Schengen visas must be issued by the representation office (→ BMEIA ) of the country in which the main travel destination of the visa applicant is located. If the applicant intends to spend an equal amount of time in several countries (for example, when touring), the competent representation office is that of the country in whose territory the main travel destination is located, on the basis of the length and purpose of the stay. If it is not possible to determine a main travel destination, the member country of first entry into the Schengen area is responsible for issuing the visa.

Territorial competence for applications for category A and C visas falls to the representation office in the consular district where the legal place of residence of the applicant is located. A representation office may claim exceptional competence for applications from third‑country nationals legally residing but not registered in their district if the applicant can provide justification as to why they had to submit their application to that particular consulate.

Type D visas, however, must be applied for at the competent Austrian representation. The provisions of Section 8 of the FPG apply to type D visas. In accordance with these provisions, the territorial competence for carrying out official actions in relation to visas is determined on the basis of the foreign national's the place of residence ( i.e. their centre of interest, verifiable by means of e.g. registration forms, residence permit, visa).

A list of all representation offices (addresses, telephone numbers, opening hours, special requirements for issuing visas etc. ) can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry of European and International Affairs (→ BMEIA ) .

Costs and fees

The consular fees can be found on the list of fees provided by the relevant Austrian representation (→ BMEIA ) .

Further information

Further links.

• List of visa requirements ( → BMI )
• Entry requirements for Austria ( → BMI )

More detailed information about the entry requirements for Austria can be found at www.bmi.gv.at/visa . Should you have any further questions, you can contact the Federal Ministry of the Interior, Department V/B/7, by telephone on +43 1 53126 / 3557 between 8 a.m. and 12 a.m.

A visa can only be extended when the applicant is in Austria in clearly defined exceptional cases.

Legal basis

• Fremdenpolizeigesetz

Link to form

Schengen visa – application

Responsible for the content: Federal Ministry of the Interior

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Passport & Visa for Austria

How and what documents you need to apply for a Visa to Austria.

Schengen Visa for Indian nationals

As from 2 November 2015 following the introduction of the Visa Information System (VIS), all Schengen visa applicants in India have to appear in person in order to provide biometric data (fingerprints and digital photography). The photograph –digitally taken at the time of the application or scanned from an existing one. For subsequent applications within 59 months, the fingerprints can be copied from the previous application file in the VIS. In case of reasonable doubt regarding the identity of the applicant, the consulate will collect again fingerprints within the 59-month period specified above. Furthermore, the applicant may request that they be collected if, at the time when the application is lodged, it cannot be immediately confirmed that the fingerprints were collected within this 59-month period. Visa applicants' biometric data can be collected by Schengen States' consulates and external service providers but not commercial intermediaries Processing Time will be a minimum of 15 days (excluding day of submission at VFS) for all the Visa categories.  However, in some cases the procedure may take considerably longer. Applications accepted at the Austria Application Center in New Delhi will be submitted on next working day at the Embassy of Austria and applications submitted at the other 17  Austrian Application Centres  will be submitted after two working days at the Embassy of Austria in New Delhi. For more details  here.

US and Canadian passportholders do not require a visa in order to enter Austria. However if you have any questions please contact the Austrian Embassy or Austrian Consulate General.

Us and canadian citizens:.

Austrian Consulate General New York: (212) 737 6400 Los Angeles: (310) 444 9310 Vancouver: (604) 687 3338 Toronto: (416) 967 4867 Montreal: (514) 845 8661 Austrian Embassy Washington DC: (202) 895 6700 Ottawa: (613) 789 1444

Australian and New Zealand citizens:

Austrian Embassy Canberra 12 Talbot Street, Forrest, ACT 2603 02 6295 1533 [email protected] Austrian Consulate General Sydney Level 10, 1 York Street, Sydney NSW 2000 02 9251 3363 [email protected] Austrian Consulate General Melbourne Rm 802, 8th Floor, 180 William Street, VIC 3000 Melbourne 03 9225 8750 [email protected]

• Please check the  website of the Austrian Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs  for further contact details.

Austria Tourist Visa Application: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re dreaming of exploring the charming cities, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage of Austria, obtaining a tourist visa is the first step to turn your dream into reality. Navigating the visa application process can seem daunting, but with the right information and preparation, you can successfully secure a tourist visa for Austria. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, ensuring you have all the knowledge you need to embark on your Austrian adventure.

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Understanding the Tourist Visa for Austria

A tourist visa for Austria allows you to visit the country for leisure, sightseeing, and recreational purposes. It’s essential to familiarise yourself with the visa requirements and application process before you begin.

Determine Your Eligibility for Austria Tourist Visa

Embarking on a journey to Austria is an exciting prospect, and ensuring your eligibility for a tourist visa is the first step toward making it a reality. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you assess and navigate the eligibility criteria:

Purpose of Visit: Identify the purpose of your visit. Tourist visas are typically granted for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family. Ensure your intentions align with the designated purpose.

Duration of Stay: Tourist visas have specific durations of stay. Confirm that your intended stay falls within the allowed timeframe. If you plan to stay longer, alternative visa options may be necessary.

Passport Validity: Check the validity of your passport. It should have at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date from Austria.

Financial Capacity: Demonstrate your financial capacity to cover the costs of your stay. This includes accommodation, transportation, and daily expenses. Bank statements or sponsorship letters can support this requirement.

Travel Itinerary: Prepare a detailed travel itinerary, outlining your planned activities, accommodations, and destinations in Austria. This helps showcase the genuine nature of your visit.

Return Ticket: Provide proof of a return ticket to your home country or onward travel. This assures authorities that you have a plan to leave Austria within the permitted time frame.

Travel Insurance: Acquire travel insurance that meets the Austrian visa requirements. It should cover medical expenses, emergency repatriation, and potential trip cancellations.

Accommodation Arrangements: Confirm your accommodation arrangements. This could be hotel reservations, a letter of invitation from a host, or any other valid proof of where you’ll be staying.

Compliance with Immigration Laws: Ensure you are not in violation of any immigration laws. Previous visa violations or overstays in other countries may impact your eligibility.

Consular Jurisdiction: Apply for the visa from the consulate or embassy with jurisdiction over your place of residence. Submitting your application to the correct office streamlines the process.

  Document Checklist

One of the key aspects of a successful visa application is having all the necessary documents in order. From a completed visa application form to proof of accommodation and financial statements, a comprehensive document checklist ensures you submit a thorough and convincing application.

Completing the Visa Application Form

Accuracy is paramount when filling out the visa application form. Each section must be completed truthfully and diligently, leaving no room for discrepancies. Providing detailed information about your travel plans, background, and financial status enhances the credibility of your application.

Scheduling an Appointment

Securing an appointment with the Austrian embassy or consulate is a crucial step in the application process. Applicants must carefully choose a date that aligns with their travel plans, considering factors such as the processing time and the urgency of their trip.

Attending the Appointment

The visa appointment is an opportunity for the authorities to review your application in person. Being well-prepared for possible interviews and having all required documents in order significantly increases your chances of a successful application.

Paying the Visa Fee

Understanding the visa fee structure and ensuring timely payment is another essential aspect of the application process. Different types of visas may have varying fee requirements, and it’s crucial to confirm the accepted methods of payment.

Visa Processing Time

Patience is key during the visa processing period. While the duration can vary, applying well in advance of your intended travel date is advisable. Keeping track of the processing time helps manage expectations and allows for better trip planning.

Receiving the Visa Decision

After the processing period, applicants will receive a notification regarding the visa decision. This could be an approval, rejection, or a request for additional information. Understanding the possible outcomes prepares applicants for the next steps.

Collecting the Visa

If your visa is approved, collecting the stamped visa from the embassy or consulate is the final step. Carefully reviewing all details on the visa, such as the correctness of your name and travel dates, ensures a smooth departure.

Planning Your Trip

With the approved visa in hand, it’s time to finalise your travel plans. Booking accommodations, confirming your itinerary, and ensuring you have all the necessary arrangements in place sets the stage for an unforgettable Austrian experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can i apply for an austrian tourist visa online.

In the era of digital convenience, applying online is often an option. However, it’s crucial to check the specific requirements and procedures outlined by the Austrian embassy or consulate in your region. Online applications can streamline the process, making it more accessible and efficient.

Is travel insurance mandatory for a tourist visa?

Yes, travel insurance is a common requirement for obtaining a tourist visa. It serves as a safety net, ensuring that you are covered for unexpected events like medical emergencies or trip cancellations. Always check the specific insurance criteria outlined by the Austrian authorities.

How long does it take to get a tourist visa?

The processing time for a tourist visa varies. It depends on factors such as the embassy’s workload, the completeness of your application, and the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to account for any unforeseen delays.

Can I extend my tourist visa while in Austria?

Extending your stay in Austria may be possible, but it’s subject to certain conditions. Typically, extensions are granted for valid reasons such as medical treatment, family emergencies, or unforeseen circumstances. Contact the local immigration authorities promptly if an extension is needed.

Can I work on a tourist visa in Austria?

Generally, a tourist visa is not designed for employment purposes. If you plan to work in Austria, a separate work visa or permit is usually required. Attempting to work on a tourist visa can lead to legal consequences. Always check and adhere to the specific visa regulations pertaining to employment.

In conclusion, securing a tourist visa for Austria is a key step to experiencing the country’s beauty and culture. By understanding the requirements, preparing thorough documentation, and following the application process meticulously, you can increase your chances of obtaining a visa approval. With your visa in hand, you’ll be ready to explore the enchanting cities, picturesque villages, and breathtaking landscapes that Austria has to offer.

Do you need a Tourist visa to Austria ?

Contact our team of skilled immigration lawyers to discuss your visa and immigration needs.

Call us on +234 812 5505 986 or WhatsApp us at +234 818 1547 085 for immediate assistance with your situation. We are available to assist you in person, over the phone, or online.

Disclaimer : This website does not belong to, nor is it affiliated with, the EU. We aim to inform travelers about ETIAS and visiting Europe. The official website of the EU is europa.eu.

Austria Visas » Visa Types » Tourist Visa

Austria Tourist Visa

• ETIAS Visa Waiver

Austria is one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Located in Central Europe, Austria shares its borders with the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Travelers are required to have a tourist Visa to enter Austria.

The European Union has created the ETIAS Visa Waiver to increase security on its external borders , following the terrorist attacks of recent years, and the worst migrant crisis in its history.

Citizens from over 50 countries , must now apply for an ETIAS Visa Waiver to travel to Austria and the rest of the Schengen Area.

ETIAS is a multi-entry visa allows, that allows its holder to travel within the Schengen Area for a maximum period of 90 days and is valid for 5 years.

• Schengen Visa

The short-term Schengen visa allows its holder to travel within the countries that are part of the Schengen area. There are two types of Schengen Visa :

• Short-term stay – which allows its holder to travel within the schengen Area for a maximum stay of 90 days in any 180 days period
• Transit visa (Schengen visa A) – which allows its holder to transit through any of the international airports within the the Schengen States (“airport transit visa”)

Applicants are required to complete a form, gather supporting documentation, attend an interview at an Embassy , and pay the processing fees. Duration of stay and validity of the Schengen Visa will be determined by the Embassy .

Airport Transit Visa (Visa A)

The Airport Transit Visa A is issued to travelers in transit through the international zone of a Schengen Country Airport . It allows its holder to arrive at a Schengen State international airport and catch a flight to their destination country out of the Schengen Area.

Citizens from the following countries must apply for an Airport Transit Visa A :

• Afghanistan
• Democratic Republic of the Congo

To apply for an Airport Transit Visa A, travelers must provide a copy of the visa for the final destination, if applicable.

Travel Visa (Visa C)

The Travel Visa C or Schengen Visa C, is a short-term visa which allows its holder to reside in a Schengen Area for a certain period of time depending on the visa validity.

The Travel Visa C can be issue as a single-entry, double-entry or multiple-entry visa.

The single-entry visa allows its holder to enter the Schengen Area only once, which means that once the applicant exists the Schengen Area they are required to request a new visa to enter . The same happens with the double-entry Travel Visa C, which allows its holder to enter the Schengen Area twice, but will expire once its holder leaves the Schengen Zone for the second time.

However, all travelers who have obtained a double-entry visa more than once, and are frequent travelers to the Schengen zone , may apply for a multi-entry Travel Visa C.

The multiple-entry Travel Visa C allows its holder to enter the schengen zone multiple times , and is usually issued to those who frequently travel to Europe. A Travel Visa C allows is holder to stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days. A multi-entry Travel Visa C can be issued with a validity of one, three or five years.

To obtain a multi-entry Travel Visa C, applicants are required to provide proof that they are regular visitors of the Schengen Area, or one the Schengen Area member-states, and why they will need the visa in the future.

Austrian National Visa (Visa D)

The Austrian National visa D, is issued to those who will be staying for a determined period of time in Austria, and for a determined reason, for example, to work or study. To be eligible for an Austrian National Visa D, applicants in one of the Schengen countries.

An Austrian National Visa D, will be granted to applicants that meet the following criteria:

• Are international students about to start a course in Austria
• Are a research worker at a higher institution or research center in Austria
• Are a professional sportsman, an artist or any other professional of its kind with the purpose of sharing his/her expertise
• In case of an emergency or medical condition that prevents the individual to leave Austria within a determined period of time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tourist Visa

In this section you will find further information to help you understand the different kinds of tourist visas.

What is the difference between ETIAS and a Schengen visa?

The ETIAS travel authorization and the Schengen Visa are both short-term tourist visas, that allow their holders to remain for a maximum of 90 days, within a 180 day period, in the Schengen Area.

The ETIAS visa waiver can be requested online by completing a simple form and is issued almost immediately. The Schengen visa requires applicants to complete a form and attend a meeting at their local embassy before receiving the visa on their passport. Depending on nationality, you will have to apply for one or the other.

What visa do I need for a short period?

Each Visa has different eligibility requirements , like nationality and reason for traveling. Travel requirements to enter Austria for short term stays will differ depending on a person’s nationality. Third-country nationals are required to obtain a visa for tourism and business purposes to enter Austria for short-term stays.

Citizens from non-visa exempt countries must apply for a Schengen visa at an embassy or consulate and provide additional documentation to demonstrate the purpose of their trip.

What visa do I need for a long period?

All foreign nationals who want to stay in Austria for more than six months must apply for a residence permit . For long-term stays in Austria you will need either a s tudent visa, a work visa, or a residence permit , depending on your reason for staying.

Documents and requirements needed to apply for a long-term visa depend on nationality.

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How to apply?

General information.

Nationals of EU/EEA countries and Swiss nationals do not need a visa for entry to Austria. For entry to Austria they only need a valid travel document (passport or identity card). A residence permit issued from Austria or another Schengen state in combination with a valid travel document entitles the visa holder to move freely across the other Schengen states' territory for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days.

The Austrian Embassy in Dublin is processing visa applications for Austria, Switzerland and Slovenia . The requirements and the application form for all 3 countries are the same!

CAUTION: Visa-appointments are free of charge!

The Austrian Embassy in Dublin has outsourced its visa services to the external service provider VFS Global . Please be informed that all applications will continue to be assessed by the Austrian Embassy in Dublin. Detailed information on application modalities is available on the VFS website .

Please note that a holder of a Schengen Visa is still subject to immigration control and is not guaranteed entry into any of the Schengen countries.

Working Holiday Visa

If you need general information about the working holiday program, please click on the link .

Other special features regarding citizens of the consular district?

Visa application for Switzerland 

Visa applications for Switzerland regarding the following categories are dealt with at the Regional Consular Centre in London:

• Work, study, medical reasons residence.
• Holder of Diplomatic, Official, Service and Special passports.
• Holders of passports from Bangladesh, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Guinea, Somalia and Iraq.

Regional Consular Centre, Embassy of Switzerland, 16-18 Montagu Place, London W1H 2BQ Phone +44 20 7616 6000 email: London.visa(at)eda.admin.ch

Appointments

For visa applications book an appointment at VFS Global.

Appointments for residence permits by email: dublin-ob(at)bmeia.gv.at at the Austrian Embassy Dublin.

Supporting Documents

Information about the necessary documents you find on the VFS Global website .

Visa C: (age: 0-6, 6-12, above 12): free of charge, 40 Euro, 80 Euro

Visa D: (age: 0-6, 6-12, above 12): free of charge, 75 Euro, 150 Euro

Residence permits: 120 Euro (0-6: 75 Euro) plus 20 Euro for taking and proceeding the fingerprints

Fees in the local currency

Consular fees have to be paid in Euro/cash

Payment terms

Consular fees have to be paid in Euro/cash when lodging the application and will not be returned in case of a refusal.

EU-Visa Facilitation Agreement

For certain states of Eastern Europe and the Caucasus the fees for Visa C are lower than mentioned above.

Application form Schengen Visa (Visa C)

Application form Visa D

Applications form for residence permits

Data Protection

Information on the processing of your personal data

VIS (Visa Information Sytem) / Biometrics

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What is the procedure for Non-EU-students before entering Austria?

What is the situation if i am an eu citizen, where can i apply for a visa/student residence permit, what are the requirements for a visa/residence permit, when should i start the application process for a residence permit for students how long does it take to receive confirmation, what are the financial requirements for a visa, what is valid proof of personal income to finance my stay in austria that i can show the embassy, can i renew my residence permit, does the oead help in processing applications.

All those interested in studying in Austria for less than 6 months need to apply for a visa at an Austrian consulate or embassy before coming to Austria.

• A visa C: entitles you to stay in Austria and in all other Schengen countries for a maximum of 90 days ; it is not necessary if you are allowed to enter Austria without a visa.
• A visa D: for stays of at least 91 days up to a maximum of 6 months ; not necessary if you are a Japanese national.

If you are intending to stay for more than 6 months it is possible to apply for a residence permit for students within Austria (after lawful entry). Please contact the competent Austrian representative authority (embassy, consulate) for further information.

• A residence permit for study purposes ("Aufenthaltsbewilligung - Student") entitles you to stays for more than 6 months .

To find out more about the visa process, please check the OeAD website for detailed information.

Within 3 working days of arrival in Austria, you have to register with the registration office (Meldeamt) at you place of residence.

If you are a national of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you need no visa to come to Austria. If you have sufficient financial means to finance your stay in Austria and valid health insurance covering all the necessary costs, you only need a valid travel document (passport or identity card) for entry to and residence in Austria. If you are going to stay in Austria for more than 3 months you have to register with the competent municipal authority (Magistrat, Bezirkshauptmannschaft) within 4 months of your stay. More information can be found here.

• Visas can only be applied for at the competent Austrian representative authority (embassy, consulate-general) before travelling to Austria; this authority will also issue the visa. A visa cannot be renewed in Austria!
• You can either apply for a residence permit for students at the competent Austrian representative authority in your country of residence or at the competent residence authority within Austria after lawful entry and during lawful residence. For further details please enquire directly at the competent Austrian representative authority.

You can find all detailed information on the OeAD website . Please read the information thoroughly! The website and the guides provide checklists for the application for Visa or Residence Permits; you can also find all necessary links to application forms, explanation of the application forms in English and contact details of universities and Austrian authorities. Make sure that your application is complete; if the Austrian authority needs to get back to you for further information, the application process might be delayed.

Your application should be submitted at least 3 to 6 months before the intended arrival in Austria. Please note that you may have to start preparations early due to possible required legalization and translation of your documents.

You have to prove sufficient financial means to finance your stay: students up to 24 years of age have to prove that they have at least 515,30 Euros per month ; students of 24 years of age or older have to prove that they have at least 933,06 Euros per month [as of 2019] – these amounts have to be proved for a maximum of 12 months – e.g. by means of a savings account or a bank account (the account has to be accessible from Austria); a Declaration of Guarantee from a person living in Austria; proof of purchase of traveller’s cheques for the necessary amount; or a confirmation of the award of a scholarship/grant. If the costs for accommodation exceed 294,65 euros/month [as of 2019], you will have to prove additional funds.

This proof of financial means can be provided in different ways, for example, a savings book or deposits in a bank (the account has to be accessible from Austria), proof of purchase of traveller’s cheques, or a letter of guarantee from a person living in Austria or an institution domiciled in Austria. You may have to provide proof of the origin of your fundings.

Only residence titles (residence permits – Aufenthaltsbewilligung) and settlement permits (Niederlassungsbewilligung) can be renewed in Austria. You have to apply for a renewal before expiry of the original permit. Until a decision about the renewal has been taken you may – even after expiry of your original permit – stay in Austria. To find out more about the admission process, please check the information on the OeAD website .

Please note that the OeAD cannot help you in processing your visa application. We cannot enquire or intervene on your behalf. We only inform about entry requirements and procedures. If you have general questions concerning the application process, please  write to us ( [email protected] ).

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