Travel Guide: Malaysia To Austria

If you're planning to travel from Malaysia to Austria, there are a few things you need to know. First, let's talk about the travel options. The fastest way to get from Malaysia to Austria is by flying and then taking a train, which takes around 18 hours and costs between $430 and $1300. There are also direct flights available from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore to Vienna, Graz, Salzburg, Munich, or Zurich. Now, for the visa requirements. If you're a Malaysian citizen, you don't need a visa for short-term stays in Austria of up to 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. However, if you're planning to stay longer than 90 days, you'll need to apply for a National D visa or a visa extension. Additionally, don't forget to arrange travel insurance and comply with any COVID-related requirements. As of December 2023, travellers entering Malaysia must also register before their arrival using the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC).

Visa and passport requirements

Malaysian citizens do not need a visa to enter Austria for short-term stays of up to 90 days. However, they must hold a Malaysian passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in Austria. Proof of onward travel from Austria is also required.

For longer stays or other types of visas, Malaysian citizens can refer to the Austrian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur or the Consulate of Austria in Penang for visa applications and requirements.

When travelling to Malaysia, Austrian citizens do not need a tourist visa and can stay for up to 90 days. Their passport must be valid for at least six months upon arrival.

From December 2023, travellers entering Malaysia, including Austrian citizens, must complete a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online at least three days before their arrival. This does not apply to passengers in transit or permanent residents of Malaysia.

Transport options

There are several ways to get from Malaysia to Austria by plane or train. The exact transport options depend on your starting point in Malaysia and your intended destination in Austria.

Plane

If you are starting your journey in Penang, you can fly directly to Vienna.

If you are starting your journey in Kuala Lumpur, you can fly directly to Vienna or Salzburg.

If you are starting your journey in Singapore, you can fly directly to Vienna, Graz, Munich, Zurich, or Salzburg.

Train

If you are starting your journey in Kuala Lumpur, you can take a train to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

If you are starting your journey in Singapore, you can fly to Munich and then take a train to Salzburg. Alternatively, you can fly to Zurich and then take a train to Innsbruck.

Combination of plane and train

You can also combine the above plane and train journeys. For example, you can fly from Penang to Vienna and then take a train to another destination in Austria.

Travel time and cost

The travel time from Malaysia to Austria is approximately 19 hours, including transfers. The total distance between the two countries is 5716 miles.

The cheapest way to travel from Malaysia to Austria is by combining train and plane, which costs between $250 and $410. The fastest way to travel between the two countries is by combining plane and train, which costs between $430 and $1300.

Travel costs

The costs of travelling from Malaysia to Austria depend on the mode of transport and the duration of the journey. The distance between the two countries is approximately 5716 miles.

The cheapest option is to take a train and fly, which costs between $250 and $410 and takes around 19 hours. The fastest way to get from Malaysia to Austria is by a combination of flight and train, which takes around 18 hours and 24 minutes and costs between $430 and $1300.

There are several airlines that offer flights between the two countries, including Thai Airways International and Austrian Airlines. The average flight duration is 20 hours and 10 minutes, and the cheapest price is $524.

When flying, remember that there may be additional costs for checked baggage, in-flight meals, and other amenities.

If you are travelling by train, the cost of a ticket depends on the route and class of travel. There are several train companies that operate between Malaysia and Austria, and the journey usually involves transfers.

Accommodation costs in Austria vary depending on your preferences and budget. There are many hotels available, with prices starting at $38 USD per night.

It is also important to consider the cost of travel insurance, which is mandatory when travelling to Austria. The cost of insurance depends on the profile of the person purchasing it, but for an adult, it is typically 90 euros.

Other costs to consider include food, transportation within Austria, and any activities or tours you plan to participate in during your stay.

Overall, the cost of travelling from Malaysia to Austria can vary significantly depending on your choices of transportation, accommodation, and other factors. It is always a good idea to research and plan your trip in advance to get a better estimate of the total travel costs.

Travel insurance

When travelling to Austria from Malaysia, it is important to consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events that may occur during your trip. Here are some key considerations and benefits of travel insurance:

Emergency Medical Coverage

Austria boasts excellent medical facilities that are generally accessible. However, your local or U.S. health insurance may not cover medical expenses incurred during your trip. Travel insurance with emergency medical coverage can provide financial assistance in case of accidents, illnesses, or injuries. This coverage typically includes doctor visits, medication, X-rays, and hospital stays.

Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

In the unfortunate event of a serious injury or illness, travel insurance can be a lifesaver. It can cover the cost of emergency medical evacuation to transport you to the nearest adequate medical facility, such as by air ambulance if you are hiking in the Alps. Additionally, it can cover medical repatriation expenses to get you back home safely.

Trip Cancellation and Delay Coverage

Unforeseen events can sometimes force you to cancel or delay your trip. Trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable prepaid expenses like flights and accommodation, as long as the reason for cancellation is covered by your policy. Covered reasons typically include illness, injury, or family emergencies.

Trip delay insurance, on the other hand, can cover expenses incurred due to unexpected delays, such as the cost of a hotel room, meals, and personal care items. This can be especially useful if you experience delays during your transatlantic flight or while transiting between cities in Austria or Europe.

Baggage Loss and Delay Coverage

Baggage loss or delay can be a frustrating experience. Travel insurance with baggage coverage can help you recover losses if your checked baggage goes missing or is delayed. It also provides coverage in case of theft during your explorations in Austria, giving you peace of mind to enjoy your trip.

Adventure Sports and Activities

If you plan to engage in adventure sports or activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, or hiking in the Alps, carefully review your travel insurance policy. Some basic insurance policies may exclude or have limited coverage for these activities, so it is important to check with your insurance provider and consider upgrading your coverage if needed.

Natural Disasters

While Austria is generally a safe country, natural disasters such as landslides, avalanches, or earthquakes are possible. Keep in mind that travel insurance typically does not cover known issues or disasters that occur before purchasing the policy. Therefore, it is essential to purchase travel insurance before your trip to ensure potential coverage for unforeseen natural disasters.

Other Benefits

When choosing a travel insurance provider, compare policies and prices from different companies to find one that suits your specific needs and budget. Remember to read the fine print and understand the coverage limits, exclusions, and requirements, especially if you are applying for a Schengen visa, which mandates travel insurance.

Safe travels to Austria!

Customs and prohibited items

When travelling to Austria from Malaysia, it is important to be aware of the customs regulations and prohibited items in both countries. Here is some information about the customs and prohibited items for your journey:

• Austria is part of the EU, and the EU Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) outlines the customs duties and restrictions on imports and exports.
• Austria restricts the import of certain items, including medicines, tobacco, and alcohol. Live animals, military equipment, and dual-use items may also require special import licenses.
• For detailed and up-to-date information, refer to the official website of the Austrian Customs Administration.
• Malaysia has specific rules for duty-free exemptions for non-residents visiting for more than 72 hours and residents returning to the country after a trip abroad:
• Tobacco allowance: 225 grams.
• Currency: No restriction on foreign currency. Amounts exceeding USD 10,000 or its equivalent must be declared.
• Clothing and footwear: Up to 3 pieces of new clothing and 1 new pair of shoes.
• Electronics: 1 personal electronic item per traveller.
• Food products: Value not exceeding RM75.
• Other goods, including gifts and souvenirs: Value not exceeding RM400, or RM500 for goods from Langkawi, Pulau, Tioman, or Labuan.
• Prohibited items include certain types of currency reproductions, obscene materials, devices harmful to Malaysia's interests, specific types of fish, and various restricted imports that require licenses or permission from relevant authorities.
• For detailed and up-to-date information, refer to the Royal Malaysian Customs Department's website.

Frequently asked questions