Masks On Austrian Trains: What's The Mandate?

As of March 2023, Austria has dropped its mask mandate, except in the city of Vienna, where masks are required on public transportation and in pharmacies. However, by May 2023, masks were only required in trains entering Vienna, on the subway lines, at doctors' offices, and in some pharmacies. By November 2023, it was reported that Austria had no further mask mandates. The CDC recommends that travelers follow the recommendations or requirements in Austria, including wearing a mask and maintaining a distance of 6 feet from others.

FFP2 masks are required on long-distance trains

Austria has implemented several measures to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic. As of January 2021, the Austrian government mandated the use of FFP2 masks in various settings, including long-distance trains. This requirement was extended to include all retail shops, supermarkets, and public transport. The mandate specifies that everyone aged 14 and above must wear FFP2 masks unless they have a valid medical exemption.

FFP2 masks are a type of respirator mask that offers more protection than standard medical masks. They are designed to filter out at least 94% of particles and provide better protection against COVID-19 transmission. This requirement applies to all passengers on long-distance trains in Austria, and those who do not comply risk facing a fine of €40.

It is important to note that the dining car and first-class sections of trains are often combined, and passengers are allowed to remove their masks while consuming food and drinks brought to their seats. However, masks are still required in other parts of the train. Additionally, children under the age of 6 are exempt from wearing masks.

The Austrian public has been highly compliant with mask-wearing when required. However, it is always a good idea to check for any changes or updates to the mask mandate before travelling, as requirements can change over time. Staying informed ensures that you can adhere to the local guidelines and have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Masks are not required in the dining car or first class

When travelling by train in Austria, it's important to be aware of the country's mask requirements and to comply with them. As of May 2023, Austria no longer has a nationwide mask mandate, except in Vienna, where masks are required on public transport. However, this mandate does not apply to the dining car or first class.

In the dining car, masks are not required as it is permissible to remove your mask when eating and drinking. This is in line with general Austrian rules, which allow masks to be removed when seated in restaurants. It is worth noting that the dining car is often combined with first class, and drinks and food are brought to your seat. So, if you are travelling first class, you can enjoy your journey mask-free and with the convenience of at-seat service.

Although masks are not required in the dining car or first class, it is important to remember that this exemption does not apply to other areas of the train. When moving through the train, such as when entering or exiting, or when using the bathroom, you will need to wear a mask. Additionally, this exemption only applies to certain trains; if you are travelling on long-distance trains, a mask will be required at all times, unless you are eating or drinking.

It is also important to note that the type of mask you wear is regulated. In Vienna, an FFP2 mask is required. This is a heavy-duty mask that offers a higher level of protection than a simple cloth or surgical mask. While FFP2 masks are not required throughout the rest of Austria, it is still recommended to wear a well-fitting, high-filtration mask, such as an N95, when travelling on public transport.

Masks are mandatory on all public transport in Vienna

The Austrian public is reportedly almost 100% compliant with mask-wearing when required. However, one source noted that only around 30-60% of passengers were wearing masks on the train/in the station in December 2023. Another source noted that masks are not required in the dining car or first class on trains, as these are often combined, and drinks and food are brought to passengers' seats.

In addition to public transport, masks are also required in shops, museums, cinemas, theatres, concert venues, and restaurants (when entering, but not at the table).

Masks are not required in outdoor areas

In Vienna, however, masks are required on public transportation and in pharmacies. FFP2 masks are mandated in these settings. It is important to note that the Austrian public is almost 100% compliant with mask-wearing when required.

When traveling to Austria, it is recommended that you follow the local guidelines and mandates. Staying informed about the latest updates and changes to these requirements is also essential.

Masks are required in doctors' surgeries and pharmacies

In Vienna, masks are required on public transport and in pharmacies. However, in the rest of Austria, masks are only required in hospitals, doctors' surgeries, and some pharmacies. It is important to note that this information is from 2021 and 2023, and the requirements may have changed since then. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the latest information before travelling.

In addition to Austria, several other countries have had mask mandates in place as of late 2022 and early 2023, including Brazil, Hong Kong, South Korea, Indonesia, Germany, Spain, Greece, and Egypt. These mandates vary in their specifics, but generally apply to public transportation and indoor settings.

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