Ruqayyah Snyder
Austria is a popular destination for tourists and expats, boasting stunning landscapes, a clean environment, and world-leading healthcare. It has a stable democracy and a social market economy. The United States and Austria have strong relations, sharing common values and perspectives, including a commitment to human rights and global security. However, cultural differences can lead to some surprises for Americans visiting or moving to Austria. For example, Austrians tend to be very direct in their communication, smoking indoors is common, and jaywalking is frowned upon. Making friends as an expat can also be challenging due to Austrians' reserved nature towards strangers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Relations with the US | Austria and the US have strong relations, sharing common values and perspectives, including a support for human rights and the rule of law. |
| History of Relations | The Austro-Hungarian Empire recognized the US in 1797, and diplomatic relations were established in 1838. Relations were good until World War I, when the US declared war on the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Relations were re-established in 1921 but were strained again during World War II. After the war, the US played an essential role in Austria's reconstruction. |
| Trade | Austria is one of the top ten fastest-growing US trade partners and foreign direct investors, and the US is Austria's second-largest export destination. |
| International Organizations | Both countries are part of the United Nations, OSCE, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and World Trade Organization. Austria is not a NATO member but participates in its Partnership for Peace program. |
| Visa Requirements | US citizens can enter Austria without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. |
| Crime Rate | Austria has a low crime rate, providing a safe environment for visitors and residents. |
| Healthcare | Austria offers world-leading healthcare with high-quality medical care and an affordable healthcare system. |
| Culture | Austrians tend to be direct in their communication and may come across as blunt to Americans. They also have different social norms, such as greeting with kisses on the cheeks instead of hugs. |
| Smoking Culture | Smoking is prevalent in Austria, and it is common to see people smoking indoors in restaurants, bars, and cafes. |
| Payment Methods | Cash is commonly used in Austria, and many restaurants and cafes may not accept card payments, so it is advisable to carry cash. |
What You'll Learn
Visa requirements for US citizens and Green Card Holders
US citizens and green card holders do not need a visa to enter Austria for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, if you intend to stay longer than 90 days or seek employment, you must obtain an Austrian visa.
Application Process:
- Visa applications must be submitted at the VFS Visa Application Center in Los Angeles and San Francisco or the Austrian Consulate General, depending on your state of residence.
- Applications must be lodged within six months and no later than 15 days before your trip.
- Incomplete applications will not be accepted and will delay the process.
- You may be required to provide proof of legal residence in the USA, accommodation confirmation, travel insurance, and proof of financial means.
- Consular fees must be paid in cash and are non-refundable.
Additional Considerations:
- US citizens are advised to carry their passport and proof of sufficient funds when travelling.
- US citizens are subject to local laws and penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict.
- US citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance and ensure their health insurance provides coverage overseas as most healthcare providers only accept cash payments.
- US citizens driving in Austria must have an international driving permit or an official translation of their US driver's license.
Please note that the US Embassy in Vienna cannot provide consular services or legal advice. For detailed information, refer to the websites of the US Embassy in Austria and the Austrian Embassy in the US.
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Required documents for US citizens travelling to Austria
US citizens are welcome in Austria and do not need a visa to enter the country if they are staying for less than 90 days within a 180-day period. However, there are several important documents that US citizens should have when travelling to Austria.
Firstly, it is important to ensure that your passport is valid. Your passport must have at least three months' validity beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area, although six months' validity is strongly recommended. Additionally, your passport should not be older than ten years.
Secondly, although a visa is not required for stays under 90 days, you may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds and a return plane ticket upon entry. It is also important to note that you will need to obtain a visa if you intend to work in Austria.
Thirdly, US citizens should be aware of the requirements of the Schengen Agreement if they are planning to visit or travel through other European countries. Under this agreement, third-country nationals with a visa can enter Austria without needing a separate Austrian visa.
Finally, US citizens travelling with pets will need to ensure that their pet has a valid rabies vaccination and a pet passport issued by an authorised veterinarian.
In addition to these documents, US citizens travelling to Austria should be sure to have appropriate travel insurance and be aware of any recommended vaccinations or health and safety guidelines. It is also recommended to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
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COVID-19 requirements for US citizens entering Austria
As of 24 March 2022, the Austrian government has updated its entry requirements so that all travellers are permitted to enter the country as long as they can provide proof of vaccination, proof of recovery from COVID-19, or a negative COVID-19 test.
Proof of Vaccination
The traveller must have received a two-dose or single-dose approved vaccine. The last dose must have been administered between 14-270 days prior to travel. Booster doses are valid for 270 days after being administered.
Proof of Recovery
The traveller must hold a medical certificate issued by their government authorities prior to travel. A certificate of proof of recovery is considered valid for a period of 180 days.
Proof of Negative COVID-19 Test Result
The traveller must have undergone PCR testing within 72 hours of travel or rapid antigen testing within 24 hours of travel.
Please note that these requirements may be subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, check the website of the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection, and the Austrian government's website.
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Safety precautions for US citizens in Austria
Austria is generally considered a safe destination for tourists and expats, including US citizens. The country has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe, and violent crime is rare. However, it is still important to remain vigilant and take some basic safety precautions when visiting or living in Austria. Here are some safety precautions for US citizens travelling to Austria:
- Terrorism: While Austria is considered safe, it is important to stay alert to the threat of terrorism, as European cities, including Vienna, have been targeted in the past. Be vigilant in crowded places such as public events, tourist areas, transport hubs, shopping areas, and other public spaces. Follow the advice of local authorities and report any suspicious activities or items to the police.
- Petty Crime: Petty crimes such as bag snatching and pickpocketing are common, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation. Be careful with your belongings, and avoid leaving bags unattended. When sightseeing within Vienna, leave your passport in your hotel safe and carry a photocopy of it along with another form of ID.
- Road Safety: Austria has excellent road conditions, but roads in alpine areas can be dangerous during winter due to snow, ice, or avalanches. Some mountain roads may be closed during this time. Make sure to check the road conditions before travelling and ensure your vehicle is properly equipped for winter driving.
- Health and Medical Care: Austria has world-class healthcare facilities, and medical staff are generally excellent. However, medical care can be expensive, and local hospitals will not settle accounts directly with American insurance companies. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers overseas medical costs and medical evacuation. Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor's prescription.
- Natural Disasters: Austria experiences severe weather and natural disasters such as avalanches, flash floods, and mudslides in alpine areas. Monitor local weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities. If you plan to ski, hike, or climb in these areas, stick to marked slopes and trails.
- Legal Considerations: US citizens are subject to Austrian laws and penalties, which can be harsh compared to US standards. Penalties for drug-related offences, for example, are severe, even for carrying small amounts. Always carry your ID and be aware of local laws and customs to avoid unknowingly breaking any rules.
- Enrol in STEP: Enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before your trip to receive safety and security alerts and make it easier for the US Embassy to locate you in an emergency.
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German language courses for US expats in Austria
Austria is a welcoming place for US expats, with the two countries sharing many common values and perspectives, including a commitment to human rights and the rule of law. Austria is a free and stable democracy with a thriving art scene, gorgeous architecture, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
US expats in Austria can take advantage of the country's excellent education system, which includes a variety of German language courses. Here is some information on German language courses that US expats can consider:
German Courses in Austria
The Österreichisches Sprachdiplom (OSD) is a widely recognised four-stage examination system for German as a foreign language. It is accepted as proof of German language proficiency by universities, educational institutions, and employers in numerous countries. The OSD-diploma is offered in Austria and over 160 official language centres in more than 30 countries.
German Courses at the University of Vienna
The University of Vienna offers German courses during the summer intensive programme. These courses provide an excellent opportunity for US expats to improve their language skills and immerse themselves in Austrian culture.
Diplomatic Academy Vienna
The Diplomatic Academy of Vienna offers an annual summer course that combines German language instruction with Austrian cultural studies. This four-week intensive programme covers different language levels, from beginner to advanced, and includes lectures and presentations on Austrian politics, history, and culture.
Language Institutes and Universities
There are numerous language institutes and universities in Vienna and other provinces that offer diverse German courses throughout the year, ranging from weekly to intensive programmes. These courses cater to different levels of proficiency and can help US expats improve their language skills at their own pace.
ActiLingua Academy
ActiLingua Academy offers German courses in Vienna with flexible duration options, ranging from one to fifty-two weeks. The courses cater to different age groups and proficiency levels, with classes available for absolute beginners as well as more advanced students.
INNES Institute Vienna
The INNES Institute in Vienna provides German language instruction with course durations ranging from one to eleven weeks. Their intensive courses consist of 30 lessons per week, including group tuition and individual tuition to cater to specific learning needs.
These are just a few examples of the German language courses available to US expats in Austria. With a variety of options to choose from, expats can find the right programme that suits their needs and helps them integrate into Austrian life more effectively.
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