Tracking Your Austria Visa: A Step-By-Step Guide

Tracking your Austria visa application is crucial to ensure a smooth travel experience. The process can be complex, and staying informed about your visa status allows you to address any additional requirements, manage potential delays, and plan your trip with confidence. This guide will discuss the importance of Austria visa tracking and provide comprehensive instructions on how to verify your visa application status. Whether you are using VFS Austria visa tracking, Teleport, or visiting a visa application centre, it is essential to understand the process and stay updated on your application's progress.

Tracking your Austria visa application online

Tracking your Austria visa application is crucial to ensure a smooth travel experience. By monitoring your application status, you can stay updated on any changes or additional requirements. This enables you to respond promptly to requests for extra documents and helps in managing delays. Additionally, knowing your visa application status aids in planning your travel arrangements efficiently.

Methods for Tracking Your Austria Visa Application

There are several methods available to track your Austria visa application:

VFS Austria Visa Tracking:

• VFS Global is a trusted partner for the Austrian Embassy and Consulate. They offer a reliable platform for tracking Schengen Visa applications.
• To track your application using VFS Global:
• Visit the VFS Global website and select Austria as the country.
• Locate the visa tracking section under the 'Track Your Application' tab.
• Enter your reference number and last name.
• Submit and view the current status of your Austria visa application.

Teleport Dashboard:

• If you applied through Teleport, you can receive real-time updates on your Austria visa application status via WhatsApp, email, or directly on the Teleport Dashboard.
• Log in to the Teleport Dashboard, go to 'Your Applications,' and click on your submitted application to view its current status.

Embassy or Consulate Websites:

• You can also track your application through the official websites of the Austrian Embassy or Consulate.
• Locate the specific website for the Austrian Embassy or Consulate in your region.
• Follow the instructions provided on their website to track your visa application status.

Visa Application Centres:

• If you applied through a visa application centre, you can visit the centre in person to check the status of your application.
• Locate the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) and check their opening hours and visitation guidelines.
• Bring your Visa Application Centre receipt and a valid ID for collection.
• Alternatively, you can contact the centre by phone or email to inquire about your application status.

Information Required for Tracking

To track your Austria visa application, you will generally need the following details:

• Reference Number: This number is provided to you at the time of your visa application submission.
• Last Name: Your last name, as recorded in your visa application, is required to verify your identity and access your application details.

Common Issues with Austria Visa Tracking

Keep in mind the following common issues that may arise when checking your Austria visa application status:

• Incorrect Information: Ensure that you enter your reference number and other details accurately. Even a small mistake can lead to issues.
• System Glitches: If the online tracking system is down or slow, wait a while and try again.
• Processing Delays: Visa applications can take time, especially during peak seasons. Delays in processing may occur.
• Email Notifications: Make sure you have provided a correct and regularly checked email address to receive updates and notifications.
• Incomplete Application: If your application was incomplete or missing documents, it may not be processed on time. Always ensure all required documents are submitted.

By following these instructions and staying proactive, you can effectively track your Austria visa application and plan your travel accordingly.

What to do if there is no online tracking tool

If there is no online tool to track your Austrian visa application, you can try the following methods:

• Contact the relevant authority: Depending on where you submitted your application, reach out to the visa application centre, embassy, or consulate for assistance. They can provide updates on your application status and help resolve any issues.
• Visit a Visa Application Centre: If you applied through a Visa Application Centre, you can visit the centre in person to check your application status. Ensure you bring your Visa Application Centre receipt and a valid ID for identification.
• Check your email: Ensure that you have provided a correct and regularly checked email address to receive updates and notifications about your application.
• Use alternative platforms: If you applied through Teleport, you can receive real-time updates through WhatsApp, email, or directly on the Teleport Dashboard.
• Contact the Austrian Ministry: For general visa inquiries, you can refer to the website of the Austrian Federal Ministry of the Interior (www.bmi.gv.at) for information on visa requirements, exemptions, and application procedures.

It is important to stay updated on your visa application status to ensure a smooth travel experience. By actively checking your application status, you can promptly address any additional requirements, manage potential delays, and make informed travel arrangements.

How to track your application if you applied via a visa application centre

If you applied for an Austrian visa through a visa application centre, you can track your application through the firm that operates that centre. Here are the steps to track your application through some of the major firms:

VFS Global

VFS Global operates a network of visa application centres in countries including China, the US, and India. They provide a tracking service via their website, allowing you to check the status of your application. To track your application, follow these steps:

• Visit the VFS Global website.
• Select the country (Austria) and choose the specific visa type.
• Locate the Visa Tracking Section under the 'Track Your Application' tab.
• Enter your reference number and last name.
• Submit and view the status of your application.

CAPAGO

If you made your application at a CAPAGO visa application centre, you can use the CAPAGO online application tracking tool. To obtain information about your application, you will need the reference of your file and your email address.

TLScontact

TLScontact handles visa applications for several countries. If you applied for your Austrian Visa at a TLS application centre, then you can use the online tracking tool on their website to track your application. Log in to the TLS account you set up when you made your initial application to obtain your status.

BLS

BLS is an outsourcing firm favoured by Spain. It handles visa applications for Spanish embassies in some countries. You can track your application via their website by inputting the reference number you received when making your application and your date of birth.

What to do when your application is approved

Once your Austria visa application is approved, there are several steps you should take to ensure a smooth process. Here is a detailed guide on what to do next:

Track Your Passport and Visa:

Keep a close eye on the status of your passport and visa. You will typically receive notifications via email and SMS when your passport is ready for delivery or collection. You can also track your passport online or by contacting the relevant authorities.

Choose Your Delivery Option:

You will have the option to choose between delivery to your home/business address in Austria or collection from a pick-up office in central Vienna. Make sure you select the most convenient option for you.

Understand the Delivery Process:

If you choose delivery, your passport and visa will be sent to you via courier. There may be an additional fee for this service, which you would need to pay at the time of scheduling the delivery. The courier will make two delivery attempts, and you must provide a valid photo ID upon receipt.

Be Mindful of Timing:

Note that there is usually a time limit for collecting your passport from the pick-up office. For example, you may be required to collect it within 14 calendar days; otherwise, it will be returned to the Embassy/Consulate.

Provide Correct Information:

When collecting your passport, ensure you have the necessary identification, such as a valid photo ID, and the parcel number (ISL-number). If someone else is collecting it on your behalf, they will need the parcel number and their valid photo ID.

Stay Informed:

Throughout the process, regularly check your emails and keep track of any relevant updates or notifications. This will help you avoid any unnecessary delays.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you receive your passport and visa promptly and efficiently, allowing you to proceed with your travel plans to Austria.

What to do if you need your passport returned

If you need your passport returned, it means that you have applied for an Austrian visa and are awaiting the outcome. Here are the steps you can take to ensure you receive your passport back, along with your visa approval or rejection:

Tracking Your Application

Firstly, it is essential to track your application status. You can do this through the VFS Global portal or the Teleport Dashboard. Both platforms require your reference number and last name to access your visa application details.

Understanding the Process

The processing time for an Austrian visa typically ranges from 15 to 21 days, depending on the type of visa and other factors. During this time, it is important to monitor your application status and promptly respond to any requests for additional documents to avoid unnecessary delays.

Delivery Options

Once your visa application is approved, you will be notified via email and SMS. You can choose to have your passport and visa delivered to your address in Austria or opt for pickup from a central location in Vienna. If you do not have an Austrian address, the pickup option is the only choice.

Pickup Instructions

If you choose to pick up your passport, you must bring a valid photo ID, such as your current passport, driver's license, or identification card. You will also need to present the parcel number (ISL number). Please note that this number is for identification purposes only and cannot be tracked online. You have 14 calendar days to collect your passport before it is returned to the Embassy/Consulate.

Delivery Instructions

If you opt for delivery, your passport will be sent to the address indicated during the application process. You will receive a tracking number via email and SMS to monitor the delivery status. The courier will make two delivery attempts. If the recipient is not available, they will leave a notice, and the second attempt will usually be made the next day.

In summary, by regularly tracking your application status, understanding the process, and choosing a suitable delivery or pickup option, you can effectively ensure that you receive your passport back in a timely manner.

Frequently asked questions