Leslie Massey
Austrian passports are identity documents issued to Austrian citizens to facilitate international travel. The history of the Austrian passport can be traced back to the Austro-Hungarian Empire passport issued in Bohemia in 1871. Over the years, the design of the Austrian passport has evolved, with the most recent update being introduced in December 2023. Austrian citizenship and passports offer a range of benefits, including visa-free travel to numerous destinations and a high quality of life within Austria, a country renowned for its stunning natural scenery, rich history, and cultural heritage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date of Invention | 1871 |
| Country | Austria |
| Passport Colour | Burgundy |
| Passport Inscription | "EUROPÄISCHE UNION" (European Union) and "REPUBLIK ÖSTERREICH" (Republic of Austria) |
| Passport Validity | 10 years |
| Passport Application Requirements | 2 recent passport photographs, not older than 6 months, according to EU-criterias for Passport-photographs, Original Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or valid visa (does not apply to US citizens), Proof of current residence (US driver's license, utility bill, etc.), Birth certificate, Proof of Austrian citizenship, Approval of dual citizenship and a copy of the U.S. passport |
| Passport Application Time | 4-6 weeks |
| Passport Application Fee | Consular fee |
| Passport Application Documents | Original and one copy of birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce certificate (if applicable), proof of academic degree (if applicable and only if issued in Switzerland, an EU member state, or an EFTA member state), proof of Austrian citizenship, and one set of photocopies of all original supporting documentation |
| Dual Citizenship | Allowed under specific conditions, such as for descendants of victims of the Nazi regime or for those with multiple citizenships at birth |
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What You'll Learn
Austrian passport history
Austrian passports have a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Here is a detailed overview of the evolution of Austrian passports:
Early Beginnings:
The concept of passports in Austria can be traced back to the 19th century when the Austro-Hungarian Empire was in existence. In 1871, passports were issued in Bohemia, which was then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This early iteration of passports facilitated travel and identified citizens of the empire.
Post-World War I:
After the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire following World War I, Austria underwent several changes in its passport system. During this period, passports played a crucial role in managing the significant population movements that occurred due to the war and its aftermath.
World War II and Its Aftermath:
The period surrounding World War II saw significant developments in Austrian passport history. The rise of the Nazi regime and the subsequent persecution of certain groups prompted the introduction of specific passport regulations. Austria's nationality laws and citizenship requirements evolved during this time, often influenced by the political climate and the country's relationship with other nations.
Post-World War II to Present:
Austria's passport history in the latter half of the 20th century was marked by the country's changing geopolitical landscape. In 1955, Austria regained its independence and established itself as a neutral country. This period saw the introduction of new passport designs and the implementation of international travel restrictions.
The colour scheme of Austrian passports underwent changes over time. Before Austria joined the European Union in 1995, passports had an outer light brown and inner dark brown cover, which later switched to a dark green cover during the 1970s. Today, Austrian passports follow the standard EU design, featuring a burgundy colour and the Austrian coat of arms on the front cover.
Recent Developments:
In recent years, Austrian passport regulations have continued to evolve. Austria's membership in the European Union has significantly influenced passport requirements and travel privileges for Austrian citizens. The country's strong passport ranking reflects its commitment to facilitating international travel for its citizens.
In December 2023, a new passport design was introduced, incorporating the standard biometric symbol and adhering to EU design standards. Austrian passports are now manufactured centrally at the Österreichische Staatsdruckerei in Vienna, ensuring consistency and security.
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Austrian citizenship
The earliest known Austrian passports were issued by the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1871. However, the passports looked very different from the ones used today. Before Austria became a member of the European Union in 1995, Austrian passports had an outer light brown and inner dark brown cover, which switched to a dark green cover during the 1970s. Today, Austrian passports follow the standard EU design and are burgundy in colour.
Citizenship by Birth: Children born to an Austrian citizen are automatically granted Austrian citizenship. Children born out of wedlock obtain Austrian citizenship if the mother is Austrian at the time of birth. Since 1 August 2013, children born out of wedlock also obtain citizenship if the father is Austrian and an acknowledgement of paternity is made within eight weeks of the child's birth.
Citizenship by Marriage: An alien spouse of an Austrian national can obtain Austrian citizenship if they have been legally and continuously resident in Austria for at least six years and have been married for at least five years. The spouse must also renounce their present citizenship.
Citizenship by Naturalisation: Aliens have the right to obtain Austrian citizenship if they have lived in Austria permanently for at least thirty years or at least fifteen years with demonstrated successful personal and professional integration. Some aliens may apply for citizenship after six years of permanent residence, such as EEA citizens. The general requirements for naturalisation include a minimum of ten years of legal and continuous residence in Austria, with at least five years holding a residence permit, and proof of fixed and regular earnings. Applicants must also demonstrate German language skills and basic knowledge of Austria's democratic system, history, and fundamental principles.
Citizenship by Descent: Austria allows victims of the Nazi regime and their descendants to apply for citizenship. This includes individuals who suffered or had reason to fear persecution by the Nazi regime, including those who left Austria during this period. Descendants of persecuted persons, such as Holocaust survivors, are also eligible for dual citizenship. The process typically takes four to six months, and applicants may seek assistance from organisations like Henley & Partners to help manage the application process.
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Visa requirements
Austrian passports were first issued in 1871 in Bohemia, under the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The passport has undergone several changes since then, including a colour change from light brown to dark green in the 1970s, and the adoption of the standard EU design, including the burgundy colour, following Austria's entry into the European Union in 1995.
Austrian citizens enjoy a high degree of travel freedom, with visa-free access to many countries and territories worldwide. As of January 2025, Austrian citizens can enter 191 countries and territories without a visa or with a visa on arrival, ranking the Austrian passport 3rd in the world according to the Henley Passport Index. This includes 121 countries with visa-free access and 45 countries with visa on arrival.
Austrian citizens can travel to any country within the European Union and Switzerland without a visa due to the right of free movement and residence granted by the EU Treaty. Austrian citizenship is highly coveted because of this freedom of movement, as well as Austria's high quality of life as one of Europe's wealthiest countries.
However, visa requirements for Austrian citizens vary depending on the country or territory of destination. Some countries, such as those in the Arab League, may refuse entry to passport holders with Israeli visas or stamps. Additionally, some countries require fingerprinting, iris scanning, or face recognition for entry, while others mandate proof of Austrian citizenship and approval of dual citizenship.
It is important for Austrian citizens to check the specific entry requirements of their destination, as some countries may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or an electronic visa (eVisa) prior to travel. The duration of stay and permissible purposes for travel are also subject to the visa regulations of the respective nation.
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Dual citizenship
Austrian passports are issued to citizens of Austria to facilitate international travel. Every Austrian citizen is also a citizen of the European Union, and the passport allows for free rights of movement and residence in any of the states of the European Economic Area and Switzerland. Austrian passports follow the standard EU design and are burgundy in colour, featuring the Austrian coat of arms in the centre of the front cover.
In general, Austrian citizenship law does not permit dual or multiple citizenship. Anyone who voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship loses Austrian citizenship unless they have obtained prior permission to retain it. An application to retain citizenship must be approved before applying for foreign citizenship. Those applying for Austrian citizenship are also expected to give up their previous citizenship. An exception to this rule is the acquisition of Austrian citizenship by descent, which allows victims of the Nazi regime and their descendants to apply for citizenship. This exception also applies to children who acquire Austrian citizenship at birth and automatically gain another citizenship.
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Applying for an Austrian passport
Austrian passports were first introduced in 1871, during the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The passports have undergone several changes since then, including a colour change from light brown/dark brown to dark green in the 1970s, and the addition of the standard biometric symbol at the bottom in 2023.
Austrian passports are issued to citizens of Austria to facilitate international travel. Every Austrian citizen is also a citizen of the European Union, and the passport allows for free rights of movement and residence in any of the states of the European Economic Area and Switzerland.
- Determine your eligibility: Before you begin the application process, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for an Austrian passport. This includes being an Austrian citizen or having proof of Austrian citizenship. If you are applying for citizenship by descent, you must provide evidence that you are a descendant of victims of the Nazi regime.
- Gather required documents: The list of required documents for an Austrian passport application includes:
- Two recent passport photographs, not older than 6 months, according to EU criteria.
- Original Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or valid visa (does not apply to US citizens).
- Proof of current residence (e.g., US driver's license, utility bill).
- Birth certificate with an Apostille (if issued in a non-EU/EFTA member state or Switzerland).
- Certificate of Citizenship.
- If applicable, provide a Notice of Maintenance of Austrian Citizenship and a US naturalization certificate for dual citizens.
- Certificate(s) of marriage and/or divorce, including previous marriages if applicable.
- If applicable, provide proof of academic degrees, but only if issued in an EU/EFTA member state or Switzerland.
- Proof of dual citizenship, if applicable.
- Complete the application form: You can obtain the application form from the relevant Austrian authorities or their website. Fill out the form accurately and ensure that it is signed by both parents if the application is for a minor.
- Make an appointment: A prior appointment is required for passport applications. You can make an appointment with the competent authority, such as the magistrate or district commission.
- Submit the application in person: Applicants must appear in person when submitting their application for an Austrian passport. This includes minor children, who must be present for identity verification. Applications cannot be processed through mail.
- Provide original documents and copies: Along with the completed application form, submit all the required original documents, such as the current passport, birth certificate, and proof of residence. Provide copies of the documents, including a copy of the US passport for dual citizens.
- Pay the consular fee: The consular fee must be paid in cash, by certified check, or money order. Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.
- Allow for processing time: The processing time for an Austrian passport application is approximately four to eight weeks. During this time, your identity will be verified, and you will be required to provide fingerprinting and a signature in front of the government authority.
- Receive your passport: Once your application is approved and processed, you will receive your Austrian passport. The standard validity of an Austrian passport is ten years.
Please note that additional requirements and documents may be necessary for specific cases, such as minors or dual citizens. It is essential to consult the official sources and the Austrian government's website for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information.
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Frequently asked questions
Austrian passports have existed since at least 1871, when the Austro-Hungarian Empire issued passports in Bohemia.
An Austrian passport is an identity document issued to citizens of Austria to facilitate international travel. Austrian citizens are also citizens of the European Union, so the passport allows for the right to move and reside freely in any of the states of the European Economic Area and Switzerland.
Austrian passports are the same burgundy colour as other European passports, with the Austrian coat of arms emblazoned in the centre of the front cover. The words "EUROPÄISCHE UNION" (English: European Union) and "REPUBLIK ÖSTERREICH" (English: Republic of Austria) are inscribed above the coat of arms, and "REISEPASS" (English: Passport) is inscribed below. Austrian passports have the standard biometric symbol at the bottom and each page shows the coat of arms of a different Austrian state in the background.
To obtain an Austrian passport, you must be an Austrian citizen, either by birth or naturalisation. Austrian citizenship law is based on the legal concept of "ius sanguinis", meaning citizenship is passed on by blood, regardless of birthplace. Austrian citizenship can be obtained through descent or acquisition. Children can obtain Austrian citizenship at birth if their mother is an Austrian citizen or if their parents are married and the mother is not. Austria also allows victims of the Nazi regime and their descendants to apply for citizenship.
The issuance of a new Austrian passport typically takes between four to six weeks.
