Travel Restrictions: Austria's Current Entry Requirements

Austria's travel restrictions have been frequently changing since the country closed its borders in March 2020. Most of Austria's COVID-19 entry regulations have now been lifted, but there are still some rules in place. Here is an overview of the current travel restrictions for Austria.

COVID-19 testing and vaccination requirements

Austria's COVID-19 testing and vaccination requirements have changed over time, and the following information may not reflect the most recent updates. It is important to check the latest official information before planning travel to Austria.

As of January 2025, Austria has lifted most of its COVID-19 entry regulations. Travellers from all countries can visit Austria, including for tourism purposes, without proof of vaccination or recovery. Tests are also no longer required, except for passengers travelling from the People's Republic of China (PRC). This rule applies to passengers on direct flights from China and those whose first point of embarkation is mainland China. Children under 6 are exempt from this requirement.

Previously, Austria had imposed stricter entry rules, including requiring proof of vaccination with an approved vaccine and a booster jab if the initial vaccination was received more than 270 days before travel. The EU Digital COVID Certificate (EU DCC) was accepted as proof of vaccination, recovery from previous COVID-19 infection, or a negative test result.

In the past, Austria had also implemented a nationwide lockdown and restricted entry for most travellers. However, as of December 13, 2021, travel to Austria for touristic purposes was allowed again.

For travellers from India, regardless of their vaccination status, they can enter Austria without restrictions. They are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result and are exempt from quarantine requirements.

Austria had also imposed specific requirements for entry from "countries and regions with a low epidemiological risk," "countries and regions with virus variants," and "other countries and regions" not listed in the annexes of the COVID-19 Entry Ordinance 2021. These requirements included providing evidence of a negative COVID-19 test, vaccination, or past COVID-19 infection.

Travel restrictions for non-EU citizens

Austria has implemented specific measures to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here is an overview of the travel restrictions for non-EU citizens:

Entry Requirements:

Non-EU citizens wishing to enter Austria must meet certain requirements, which may include providing a negative COVID-19 test result, proof of vaccination, or recovery from COVID-19. These requirements are in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and ensure the safety of both travellers and locals.

As of July 1, 2021, non-EU travellers to Austria, including US citizens, must complete an online Pre-Travel Clearance form within three days of their planned arrival. This form collects information such as the traveller's contact details, accommodation in Austria, and their health status. Additionally, non-EU citizens must provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result, taken within 72 hours before arrival. Acceptable tests include PCR and antigen tests, as well as certain self-tests approved by the Austrian government. The test results must be presented in German, English, or French and include specific details such as the traveller's name, date of birth, test date and time, and testing facility.

It is important to note that these requirements may change, and travellers should stay updated on the latest travel advisories and guidelines from both their home country and the Austrian authorities before planning their trip.

Quarantine Requirements:

Upon arrival in Austria, non-EU citizens may be required to undergo a mandatory quarantine period. This quarantine can be shortened if a negative COVID-19 test, either PCR or antigen, is presented on the fifth day after arrival. During the quarantine, individuals must follow local guidelines and restrictions, including practising social distancing, wearing masks in public places, and maintaining good hygiene practices.

Visa Requirements:

Citizens of non-EU countries may require a visa to enter Austria. Austria issues visas to travellers from non-EU countries who meet the Schengen visa requirements. The Schengen visa is valid for short stays in Austria, usually up to 90 days. For stays longer than 90 days, individuals should apply for a D visa, which allows for stays of up to six months. Nationals of countries that have had their visa requirement lifted by an EU regulation are entitled to visa-free entry to Austria for a maximum of 90 days per 180 days if they are not engaged in gainful employment.

From 2022, non-EU citizens will also need to obtain an ETIAS visa waiver to cross the external Schengen Area. This can be done online, and most requests are approved within minutes. However, it is important to note that entry will not be granted to individuals considered to pose a health or security risk.

Other Restrictions:

In addition to the COVID-19 related restrictions, there are other general restrictions that non-EU citizens should be aware of when travelling to Austria. These include customs and import restrictions on certain items, such as tobacco products and alcoholic beverages. When entering Austria from a non-EU country, individuals are allowed to bring in a limited quantity of these items for personal use. There are also restrictions on the amount of cash or other means of payment that can be brought into the country, with amounts over €10,000 requiring a declaration at Austrian customs.

Quarantine requirements

Current Quarantine Requirements:

As of May 16, 2022, most of Austria's COVID-19 entry regulations have been lifted, and travellers from all countries can visit without proof of vaccination or recovery. However, passengers travelling to Austria from China must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours before their arrival. This rule does not apply to children under 6.

Previous Quarantine Requirements:

Previously, travellers arriving in Austria were subject to different rules depending on their country of origin and vaccination status. Here are some of the previous quarantine requirements:

• From July 2021, travellers from countries with low epidemiological risk were allowed to enter without registration or quarantine. However, they had to register for pre-travel clearance and undergo testing within 24 hours of entry.
• Entry from virus variant areas, such as Brazil, Great Britain, India, and South Africa, was prohibited. Travellers from these countries had to present a negative test, register, and immediately start a ten-day quarantine.
• From December 12, 2021, travellers had to present a 2.5G certificate (proof of vaccination or recovery) to enter the country. Antigen and antibody tests were not accepted as valid proof.
• In December 2021, to curb the spread of the Omicron variant, the entry rules were tightened. Travellers from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa had to present pre-travel clearance, proof of vaccination, a negative PCR test, or immediately commence a ten-day quarantine. Travellers from all other countries needed a 2-G certificate and a negative PCR test or a booster vaccination.
• In February 2022, a general 3G rule (proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative test) was announced as the basic requirement for entering Austria. The only exception was for travellers coming from virus variant areas. Children under 12 were exempt from the 3G proof requirement.
• In March 2022, Austria lifted all domestic COVID-19 restrictions, and travellers were no longer required to follow protective measures.
• For non-EU citizens entering Austria for business purposes, a negative COVID-19 test, proof of vaccination, or evidence of past COVID-19 infection was required. If no exceptions applied, travellers also had to complete a Pre-Travel Clearance form and undergo a ten-day quarantine, which could be ended with a negative test on the fifth day.

Face masks and social distancing

Face masks are mandatory on public transport, in retail businesses, museums, and cable cars. Some provinces require the use of a mask in more public settings, and local measures may change at short notice, so it is recommended to carry a face mask at all times. FFP2 face masks are required on public transport, in retail businesses, museums, and cable cars.

Social distancing is also required in essential shops and services, which remain open with adapted safety measures in place, such as the use of hand sanitiser.

Face masks are not required in restaurants and bars, which are open. However, nightclubs must remain closed to limit the rate of transmission.

Travel restrictions for children

Austria's travel restrictions have been frequently changing due to the COVID-19 situation. As of January 2025, the country has lifted most of its COVID-19 entry regulations. However, it is important to stay updated with the latest information as rules may change at short notice.

Travel Documents

Children of European Union citizens travelling to or from EU countries, including Austria, need to carry their own passport or ID card. Having their names entered in their parent's passports is no longer permitted. This restriction does not apply to document holders from the United Kingdom or Ireland.

COVID-19 Testing

As of January 7, 2023, passengers travelling to Austria from mainland China must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours before arrival. This rule does not apply to children under the age of 6.

Consent Form for Minors

If your child is travelling alone, with only one parent or guardian, or with an adult who is not their legal guardian, you must complete a consent form before going through security control.

Proof of Relationship

If your child has a different last name than you, it is recommended to bring additional documentation such as a family booklet or birth certificate to prove your relationship.

Additional Country-Specific Requirements

When travelling with children, it is important to check the specific requirements of your destination country. Some countries, such as Barbados, Brazil, and South Africa, have special documentation requirements for minors.

In summary, when travelling to Austria with children, it is important to have the necessary travel documents, be aware of any COVID-19 testing requirements, and have the appropriate consent forms and proof of relationship documentation. It is always advisable to check for the latest updates and specific requirements for your country of residence and destination.

Frequently asked questions