Visa Requirements For Entry Into Austria

Austria is a party to the Schengen Agreement, which means that US citizens can enter Austria without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism or business purposes. However, it is important to note that this visa exemption only applies to US citizens and not to US Green Card Holders, who may need to apply for an Austrian visa depending on their country of origin and passport. From 2025, US citizens will need to apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before travelling to Austria.

Do US citizens need a visa to enter Austria?

US citizens do not need a visa to enter Austria if they are staying for less than 90 days within each 180-day period. This is because Austria is a member of the Schengen Agreement, which allows US citizens to enter the country without a visa for tourism or business purposes. However, it is important to note that US citizens must have a valid passport with at least three months' validity beyond the period of their intended stay. Additionally, US citizens must ensure that they follow the 90/180-day rule and may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds and a return plane ticket.

From 2025, US citizens will need to apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before travelling to Austria. This is a new travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals visiting the Schengen Area, and it will be valid for multiple trips over three years.

On the other hand, US citizens who intend to stay in Austria for more than 90 days or who wish to work in the country must obtain an Austrian visa. This can be done by applying for a visa at an Austrian Embassy or Consulate General before travelling to Austria or before their 90-day stay has expired. Work is not authorized until the appropriate visa has been obtained.

Do US Green Card Holders need a visa to enter Austria?

US Green Card Holders may not enjoy visa-free travel to Austria. It depends on your country of origin and which passport you hold. For example, if you are a US Green Card Holder with Angolan citizenship, you must apply for an Austrian Tourist Visa before travelling to Austria.

Please consult the Austrian Embassy website of Washington DC for a list of nationalities that require a visa to enter Austria.

What documents are required to enter Austria?

The documents required to enter Austria vary depending on the traveller's nationality, length of stay, and purpose of travel. Here is a comprehensive overview:

For US Citizens:

• Passport: A valid passport is required for entry into Austria. The passport must have a validity of at least three months beyond the planned date of departure from the Schengen area and two blank pages for entry stamps.
• Visa: US citizens can enter Austria without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or short-term study. However, if planning to stay longer than 90 days or seeking gainful employment, a visa is required, which must be obtained from an Austrian Embassy or Consulate before travelling.
• Travel/Health Insurance: Although not mandatory, travel insurance or health insurance is highly recommended for international visitors.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: Visitors may be asked to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay. This can be done by presenting a bank statement or a traveller's check.
• Return Ticket: You may be asked to show proof of a return or onward ticket.
• Other Documents: Depending on the purpose of travel, additional documents may be required. For students, information on student visa requirements can be found on the Study in Austria webpage. For employment purposes, a respective job offer is needed, and applications will be processed in coordination with local labour authorities.

For US Green Card Holders:

The visa requirements for US Green Card Holders depend on their country of origin and the passport they hold. For example, a Green Card Holder from Angola would need to apply for an Austrian Tourist Visa. It is recommended to refer to the Austrian Embassy website for a list of nationalities that require a visa to enter Austria.

For Australian Citizens:

• Passport: Australians travelling to Austria must have a valid passport. It is recommended to ensure that the passport is valid for at least six months after the planned date of departure, as some countries have this requirement.
• Visa: Australia is part of the Schengen area, which means that Australian citizens can enter Austria without a visa in some cases. However, it is essential to check the latest entry and exit conditions with the Austrian Embassy or Consulate before travelling, as these can change.
• International Driving Permit (IDP) or German Translation of Australian Driver's Licence: If planning to drive in Austria, Australians can use their Australian driver's licence for up to 12 months from their entry date. After this period, a resident with a foreign driver's licence is valid for only six months.
• European Entry/Exit System (EES): From 2025, non-EU nationals, including Australians, travelling to the Schengen area will be subject to the EES. This involves providing fingerprints and a photo, creating a digital record linked to their biometric data.
• Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to obtain comprehensive travel insurance before travelling to Austria, as medical costs can be very high.

What are the COVID-19 entry requirements for Austria?

As of May 16, 2022, Austria has lifted all COVID-19-related entry requirements. However, as of December 2021, Austria had made vaccinations a mandatory entry requirement for tourists and business travellers. Proof of recovery from COVID-19 plus one vaccine shot was also accepted for entry.

Previous Requirements

Previously, travellers needed to show proof of full vaccination, with the last applicable dose administered between 14 and 270 days of departure, or proof of recovery from COVID-19 within 180 days of arrival. Alternatively, travellers could show proof of a negative PCR test, taken within 72 hours of departure, or a negative antigen test, taken within 24 hours of departure.

Those without the above documents had to quarantine upon arrival until they received a negative COVID-19 test result.

Other Requirements

All incoming travellers were required to have travel insurance covering COVID-19 for the duration of their trip.

What is the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program?

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service provided by the U.S. Department of State that sends you updates from the local U.S. embassy or consulate. This includes real-time information about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.

STEP is particularly useful in emergency situations, such as natural disasters, civil unrest, or family emergencies, as it helps the embassy or consulate to contact you with instructions on what to do. It also enables your family or friends in the U.S. to contact you with urgent news if they are unable to reach you directly.

STEP sends routine messages, alerts, and travel advisories. Routine messages include news and updates about the country you are in. Alerts are sent in the case of short-term security, terrorism, health, weather, or disaster situations that could impact your travels. Travel advisories are re-evaluated every 6-12 months and include a simple 1-4 rating system, details about specific risks, and steps U.S. citizens should take to stay safe.

You can sign up for STEP by setting up an account and choosing which types of messages you want to receive.

Frequently asked questions