Do You Need A Visa For Austria

In general, American and Canadian citizens can visit most European Union countries for up to 90 days without a visa. But despite it’s common name, Austria is not an EU member. In fact, it belongs to the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). That means that US and Canadian citizens need a visa to visit Austria for any length of time. 

What is the E-Visa for Austria and how to apply it? Nowadays, having to visit a long queue with strict regulations and applying for a visa can be challenging, why? Because it helps to be informed of each country’s requirements, Germany is one of those that requires a visa before entering. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of your trip since each has different implications, get informed in this post. A visa is not easy and you do not want to make mistakes before traveling, here you will find all information on E-Visa Austria

Do You Need A Visa For Austria

For citizens of several EU countries, visa requirements are already waived as they enjoy the freedom of travelling and/or living in Austria. However, visa is still needed for non-EU nationals who will be staying at Austria for more than 90 days within a 180 day period. Let us find out if you need a visa to enter Austria.

All international travellers to Austria must follow the Austria entry requirements. In some cases, this includes an Austrian visa.

Certain nationalities are required to meet the Austrian visa requirements by having a valid visa for Austria. Without following this immigration policy, visitors do not have permission to enter the country.

Austria entry requirements

Based on the purpose or length of stay, visitors may face different Austria entry requirements. International arrivals must follow all entry and exit policies that apply to each individual, to travel to Austria.

There are certain regulations which are indefinite immigration requirements, such as a visa for Austria or a travel permit. Other safety measures are in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, which all passengers must follow in addition.

What is a visa for Austria?

All non-EU citizens that are going to Austria on a temporary or permanent basis, are required to apply for a visa.

The Austria visa requirements depend on the traveller’s nationality and reason for travel.

Austria tourist visa

Third-country nationals travelling to Austria on a temporary basis must apply for an entry permit visa. Depending on the nationality of the traveller, this may be an ETIAS Visa Waiver or a Schengen Visa for Austria.

All those planning to go to Austria for the following reasons must request the appropriate entry permit:

• Tourism
• Business
• Medical help
• Transit
• Visiting friends and relatives

All temporary entry permit holders may not stay in Austria longer than 3 months

All temporary entry permit holders may not stay in Austria longer than three months (in most cases), and are not authorized to work.

Those who wish to extend their tourist visa for Austria, must apply for an Austrian National Visa D. With this visa, they may remain in Austria for another 3 months (90 days.)

Residence permit to live in Austria

Third-country nationals who want to stay in Austria for more than six months must apply for a residence permit.

Qualified workers and third-country nationals seeking to live and work in Austria will need the Red-White-Red Card.

The Red-White-Red Card is valid for 2 years and allows its holder to reside and work for the employer specified in the application.

Applicants must belong to one of the following to qualify for criteria-based immigration to Austria:

• Very Highly Qualified Workers
• Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations
• Other Key Workers
• Graduates of Austrian Universities and Colleges of Higher Education
• Self-employed Key Workers
• Start-up Founders

Permission to work in Austria

Non-EU citizens are required to apply for a restricted work permit, valid for 1 year to work in Austria.

A restricted work permit allows the applicant to work for a specific job and employer. If at any time during the visa’s validity the employment changes, then the applicant is required to apply for a new restricted work permit.

Non-EU citizens may apply for 3 different forms of work permits in Austria:

• Restricted work permit or Beschäftigungsbewilligung
• Work permit or Arbeitserlaubnis
• Unrestricted work permit or Befreiungsschein

Who needs an entry visa for Austria?

All EEA citizens and Swiss citizens, can travel to Austria under the visa-free regime. Visa requirements for Austria state that all third-country nationals are required to apply for a visa to travel or live in Austria.

For stays up to 3 months, third-country nationals will need to apply for an ETIAS Austria or a Schengen Visa. For stays up to 6 months, they can apply for an Austrian National Visa D to extend their tourist visa.

Austria visa application process

All Austria Visa applicants who are not eligible for the ETIAS visa waiver are required to have an interview at an Austrian Embassy or Consulate to complete the Austrian visa application process.

Each applicant needs to bring the necessary documents and attend a quick interview about their travel plans.

Austria Travel information

Austria is open to international travel, providing visitors have all the necessary paperwork and follow all Austria entry and visa requirements.

All visitors must check the most recent entry requirements for Austria before travelling, including any additional COVID-19 restrictions.