Visa Requirements: Austrians' Rules For Singaporeans

If you are a Singaporean citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Austria for short visits of up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism or business purposes, as long as you have a valid passport and are not seeking employment. However, for stays longer than 90 days and up to six months, you will need to apply for a National Visa D. On the other hand, if you are an Austrian citizen, you will generally need a visa to visit Singapore for extended periods, and you will need to meet specific requirements and apply for the appropriate visa type depending on your purpose of travel.

Singaporeans can visit Austria for up to 90 days without a visa

Singaporeans can visit Austria for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without a visa, as long as their visit falls within 180 days from the date of their initial entry into the Schengen Area. This is because Austria is one of the 26 European countries that are part of the Schengen Area.

However, it is important to note that this visa exemption is only valid if no employment is pursued during the stay. Additionally, Singaporeans must have a valid passport for a minimum of three months beyond the intended date of departure from the Schengen Area, although it is recommended to have at least six months' validity. It is also advisable to carry your passport with you when crossing borders, even within the Schengen Area.

To enter Austria without a visa, Singaporeans must meet several requirements. These include having proof of sufficient funds, proof of onward or return airline tickets, documents showing the purpose of the trip, and all necessary documents for the next destination. It is also important to confirm with the airline that boarding will be permitted without a visa, as these conditions may change.

While visa-free travel is convenient, it is important to stay updated with the latest travel requirements. Immigration rules can change quickly, so travellers are advised to refer to the website of the Embassy of Austria in Singapore or contact their travel agent or the Embassy directly for the most up-to-date information.

A valid passport is required to enter Austria

The passport must also have two blank visa pages. It is important to note that immigration requirements can change, so travellers are advised to refer to the website of the Embassy of Austria in Singapore or contact their travel agent or the Embassy directly for the most up-to-date information.

In addition to a valid passport, there are several other requirements for entry into Austria. Travellers must hold proof of sufficient funds, proof of onward or return airline tickets, documents showing the purpose of the trip, and all necessary documents for the next destination. If the next destination is outside the Schengen Area, a visa for that country may be required. It is recommended that travellers confirm with their airline that boarding will be permitted without a visa, as these conditions are subject to change.

It is worth noting that for stays in Austria of more than 90 days and up to six months, a National Visa D is required. For stays longer than six months, a residence permit must be obtained.

Visa requirements for stays longer than 6 months

For stays longer than six months in Austria, citizens of Singapore are required to obtain a residence permit. Applications for residence permits must be submitted at the Embassy and then forwarded to the relevant Austrian authority for assessment.

In exceptional cases, citizens of Singapore are entitled to apply for residence permits onshore (i.e. in Austria) after visa-free entry. However, it is important to note that the residence permit is quota-based and does not allow gainful employment.

The application process for a residence permit involves submitting the necessary documents and paying the associated fees. The list of required documents can be found on the website of the VFS application centre in Singapore, which exclusively handles all Austrian visa applications. The consular and visa fees are to be paid in Singapore Dollars according to the exchange rate of the Austrian Federal Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. This rate is adjusted on the first day of each month.

The website of the Austrian Embassy in Singapore provides information on the opening hours and contact details. It is recommended to register online with the Embassy before travelling, to facilitate efficient assistance in case of an emergency.

What to do if your stay in Austria exceeds 90 days

If you are a Singaporean citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Austria for short visits of up to 90 days within 180 days, as long as you are not planning to work during your stay. However, if your stay in Austria exceeds 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa. Here is what you need to do:

Visa Requirements for Stays Exceeding 90 Days

• Obtain a National Visa D: If you plan to stay in Austria for more than 90 days but no longer than six months, you will need to apply for a National Visa D. This type of visa entitles you to stay in Austria for up to six months.
• Apply for a Residence Permit: For stays longer than six months, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Applications for residence permits must be submitted at the Austrian Embassy and then forwarded to the competent Austrian authority for assessment.
• Provide Required Documents: When applying for a visa or residence permit, you will need to provide certain documents, including a valid passport, proof of financial means, proof of accommodation, travel health insurance, and more. A list of required documents can be found on the website of the competent Austrian representative authority.
• Allow for Processing Time: Keep in mind that processing times for visas and residence permits may vary, so it is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date. Applications for residence permits, in particular, can take up to six months to process.
• Register Your Residence: Within three working days of your arrival in Austria, you must register with the registration office at your place of residence. If you are staying in tourist accommodation (such as a hotel or Airbnb) for a maximum of two months, registration is not required.
• Be Aware of Work Restrictions: During your visa-free stay or with a Visa C or D, you are not permitted to engage in gainful employment or self-employment. If you plan to work during your stay in Austria, you will need to obtain a special visa and the necessary work permits.
• Comply with Entry Requirements: Ensure that you meet all the entry requirements for Austria, including having a valid passport, travel medical insurance, and complying with any COVID-19 regulations in place.
• Contact the Embassy: For specific and up-to-date information, it is recommended to contact the Austrian Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. They can provide detailed guidance on the visa application process and requirements.

Travel requirements for business trips to Austria

If you are a Singaporean citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Austria for business trips of up to 90 days within 180 days from the date of initial entry into the Schengen Area. This is provided that you do not pursue any employment during your stay. However, you will need a valid passport with a minimum of three months' validity beyond the intended date of departure from the Schengen Area. It is recommended that you have at least six months' passport validity.

Please note that immigration requirements can change, so it is advised to check the website of the Embassy of Austria in Singapore or contact your travel agent or the Embassy directly for the most up-to-date information.

For business trips exceeding 90 days but no longer than six months, you will need to apply for a National Visa D. Applications for this visa are handled exclusively by the VFS application centre in Singapore, which is also responsible for allocating appointments.

When travelling to Austria, it is important to carry identification with you at all times. Additionally, be aware of local laws and customs, such as the illegality of covering your face in public places or buildings, and the requirement to purchase a special sticker for driving on toll roads.

Frequently asked questions