Austria's Open Borders: International Travel Update

Austria is open for international travel, with several airports, hotels, restaurants, and attractions accessible to tourists. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are specific entry requirements and restrictions in place. All travellers must present either a COVID-19 vaccination certificate, proof of recovery, a negative PCR test, or a negative antigen test. Additionally, masks are required in closed spaces and public transport, and social distancing rules must be observed. Unvaccinated individuals may enter the country but cannot access hotels, bars, restaurants, and cultural facilities.

Entry requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers

Austria is open to international travel. However, there are specific entry requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers.

Entry requirements for vaccinated travellers:

Vaccinated travellers from "safe countries" must present a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate, proof of recovery from COVID-19, a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of entry, or a negative antigen test result within 48 hours of entry. They are not required to register for pre-travel clearance or self-isolate.

Travellers from all other countries must present a COVID-19 vaccination certificate, proof of recovery from COVID-19, a negative PCR test result from within 72 hours of entry, or a negative antigen test result from within 48 hours of entry. They do not need to register for pre-travel clearance or self-isolate if they provide proof of vaccination or recovery.

Entry requirements for unvaccinated travellers:

Unvaccinated travellers from "safe countries" must present a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of entry or a negative antigen test result within 48 hours of entry. They are not required to register for pre-travel clearance or self-isolate.

Unvaccinated travellers from all other countries must present a negative PCR test result from within 72 hours of entry or a negative antigen test result from within 48 hours of entry. They must also register digitally for pre-travel clearance and self-isolate for 10 days from their arrival in Austria. They can end their self-isolation early by taking a COVID-19 test on the fifth day of their self-isolation period.

Please note that, as of November 8, 2021, unvaccinated travellers are not allowed to enter hotels, bars, restaurants, and cultural facilities within Austria. They can still access essential services, such as grocery stores, post offices, and public transportation.

COVID-19 testing and vaccination certificates

Austria is open to international travel. In 2023, the country experienced a significant tourism resurgence, with a total of 45.2 million visitors, including 30.9 million international tourists.

Austria's COVID-19 Entry Regulation 2022 outlines the requirements for travellers entering the country. Here is what you need to know about providing proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative test result:

Proof of Vaccination

• Proof of vaccination must be provided in the form of a document written in Latin characters issued in German or English, such as a yellow vaccination pass.
• The document must mention vaccination with a vaccine authorised by the EMA (European Medicines Agency) or listed in the WHO's EUL (Emergency Use Listing Procedure).
• The EU Digital COVID Certificate, which provides an EU-compliant QR code, is accepted as proof of vaccination.

Proof of Recovery from COVID-19

Proof of recovery must be a confirmation in Latin characters in German or English from a doctor or public authority, such as an official self-isolation order, confirming recovery from COVID-19 in the last 180 days.

Proof of Negative Test Result

• A negative molecular biological test (PCR test) for SARS-CoV-2, taken less than 48 hours before entry.
• Or, an antigen test for SARS-CoV-2, except for self-testing, taken less than 24 hours before entry.
• The test certificate must be in the form of a medical certificate in Latin script in German or English.

Quarantine and self-isolation rules

Austria has implemented several measures to curb the spread of COVID-19. Here are the quarantine and self-isolation rules for travellers:

• Austria reopened its borders to international travellers in June 2021. Currently, travellers from all countries can enter Austria as long as they follow the specified entry requirements.
• Travellers from "safe countries" must present proof of vaccination, recovery from COVID-19, a negative PCR test within 72 hours of entry, or a negative antigen test within 48 hours of entry. They are not required to register for pre-travel clearance or self-isolate.
• Travellers from other countries must provide either a COVID-19 vaccination certificate, proof of recovery, a negative PCR test within 72 hours before entry, or a negative antigen test within 48 hours before entry. Those who provide proof of vaccination or recovery are exempt from registering for pre-travel clearance and self-isolation.
• Travellers who only present a negative test result must register digitally before entering Austria and self-isolate for 10 days. They can opt to take a COVID-19 test after 5 days of self-isolation to end this period early.
• Business travellers who provide proof of vaccination, recovery, a negative PCR test within 72 hours, or a negative antigen test within 48 hours before entry are exempt from registering for pre-travel clearance and self-isolation.
• Travellers are considered vaccinated if they have received both doses of a two-dose vaccine or one dose of a single-dose vaccine. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is also accepted if it has been 22 days since the vaccination.
• Valid proof of vaccination includes a vaccine certificate, card, passport, or electronic vaccine passport in German or English.
• Travellers who have recovered from COVID-19 can enter Austria for 180 days after their infection. Proof of antibodies is valid for 90 days from the test date.
• Unvaccinated travellers who do not have proof of recovery must present a negative PCR or antigen test result within the specified time frames. The test result must be in German or English and can be digital or paper. Children under 12 are exempt from this requirement.
• Travellers from countries that are not designated as "safe" who present a negative test result must self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival in Austria. They can opt to take a COVID-19 test on day 5 of self-isolation to end this period early.
• As of November 8, 2021, unvaccinated individuals can enter the country but cannot access hotels, bars, restaurants, and cultural facilities. They are permitted to use essential services such as grocery stores, post offices, and public transportation.
• Medical-grade masks (FFP2, KN95) must be worn on public transportation and in retail businesses and museums. Social distancing rules must be observed.

Face masks and social distancing

In May 2020, Austria announced that it would relax some of its mandatory mask rules as it entered a new phase of "fewer rules, more self-responsibility." From mid-June 2020 onwards, wearing face masks was no longer mandatory in shops. However, covering the mouth and nose remained mandatory in public transport, health facilities, and places where social distancing was challenging, such as hairdressers. Chancellor Sebastian Kurz emphasized the need for "common sense" to avoid posing a risk to others, as the country continued to navigate the pandemic.

As Austria gradually reopened, restaurants and cafes were allowed to stay open until 1 am, and the limit of four adults per table was abolished. Hotels, fitness clubs, and swimming pools resumed operations, and public gatherings of up to 200 people were permitted. Students, except those in secondary schools, were also able to return to their classrooms.

Attractions, restaurants and hotels that are open

Austria is a beautiful country with a lot to offer tourists, from its stunning natural landscapes to its rich cultural history. Here is a list of attractions, restaurants, and hotels that are open for visitors:

Attractions

• Schönbrunn Palace: This Baroque palace was once the summer residence of Empress Maria Theresa. Visitors can explore the 40 open rooms, including the Royal Apartments, the Great Gallery, and the Million Room. The surrounding park and gardens are equally impressive, with formal gardens, a labyrinth, a Palm House, and Europe's oldest zoo.
• Historic Centre of Vienna: Wander through the beautiful architecture, including Baroque castles and gardens, as well as the Ringstrasse, lined with grand buildings, monuments, and parks.
• Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna: Explore one of the world's foremost museums, featuring artworks from Ancient Egypt to the modern era. Admire pieces by Dürer, Raphael, Titian, and Velázquez, as well as the largest collection of Bruegel paintings.
• St. Stephen's Cathedral: Known for its intricately tiled roof and 500-foot-tall South Tower, this magnificent cathedral is Austria's most prominent national symbol.
• Belvedere Palace: This Baroque landmark houses the greatest collection of Austrian art, including works by Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Oskar Kokoschka.
• The Hofburg: Once the centre of the Habsburg empire, this palace now houses museums that showcase the imperial court's traditions and everyday life.
• Tiergarten Schoenbrunn - Zoo Vienna: As the oldest existing zoo in the world, founded in 1752, this zoo is the perfect place to explore the animal kingdom.
• Salzburger Altstadt: The Old Town of Salzburg is intertwined with the spirit of Mozart and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Schonbrunner Gardens: These Baroque gardens, intended to impress, surround the Schönbrunn Palace and offer a convenient recreational area for locals and tourists alike.
• Albertina: Housed in a beautiful historic building, this museum boasts an impressive art collection, including masterpieces by Da Vinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo.
• Natural History Museum: This museum features a significant collection of dinosaur skeletons, meteorites, and a large insect display.
• Fortress Hohensalzburg: This 11th-century castle overlooks Salzburg and is an unmistakable part of the city's skyline.
• Melk Benedictine Abbey: One of the world's most famous monastic sites, this massive complex includes a twin-towered church, imperial rooms, and impressive portraits of Austria's rulers.
• Hallstatt: One of the most picturesque small towns in Europe, Hallstatt is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and salt production.
• Dachstein Salzkammergut: This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts impressive caves, including the Giant Ice Cave and the Mammoth Cave.
• Belvedere Palace: Another spectacular palace in Vienna, featuring the Upper and Lower Palaces, with impressive art collections and architectural details.
• Burg Hochosterwitz: Perched on a crag, this medieval castle has a rich history and impressive defensive gates.
• The Grossglockner Road: One of Europe's most magnificent mountain roads, offering incredible views of the Hohe Tauern mountain range.
• Krimml Ache: Austria's tallest waterfalls, with a 380-meter plunge and impressive surrounding hikes.
• Eisriesenwelt: The largest system of ice caves in the world, covering 30,000 square meters, with impressive ice formations.
• Old Town Innsbruck: Explore the beautiful architecture and unique historic buildings, including the famous Golden Roof, a relic of the city's Hapsburg past.

Restaurants

• Europe Restaurant: Known for its diverse menu and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for networking.
• Café de l’Europe: A charming café offering pastries and light meals, ideal for casual meetings.
• Sad Man’s Tongue Bar & Bistro: A vibrant spot serving delicious bistro fare and a range of drinks.
• Europe Restaurant 1989: Offers a blend of traditional and modern cuisine.
• Petite Europe: A cozy eatery featuring European-inspired dishes.
• Le Dragon d’Europe: A fusion restaurant combining European and Asian flavours.
• St. Peter Stiftskulinarium: One of the oldest restaurants in Austria, offering a historic dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.
• Sangam Indian Restaurant: A great choice for Indian cuisine, featuring an array of flavorful dishes.
• Indiana Café: A casual café serving snacks and meals.
• L’Europe: Known for its elegant atmosphere and fine dining, perfect for formal dinners.

Hotels

• The Europe Hotel & Resort: A luxurious hotel offering stunning views and comprehensive amenities.
• Europe Hotel & Spa: Features a relaxing spa and wellness centre.
• Hotel d’Europe: A charming hotel known for its elegant rooms and exceptional service.
• Park Club Europe: Offers family-friendly amenities and a convenient location.
• Residhome Val d’Europe: A modern residence-style hotel with spacious accommodations.
• Aparthotel Adagio Serris: Provides well-equipped apartments, ideal for longer stays.
• Messehotel Europe: A comfortable hotel catering to business travellers, with convenient meeting facilities.
• Hotel Europe Saint Severin: A cozy option with a warm ambiance.
• Carlton-Europe Vintage Adults Hotel: An adults-only hotel featuring a vintage style and peaceful atmosphere.
• Hôtel L’Europe Colmar: A charming hotel with unique decor and excellent service.

Frequently asked questions