Guide to Residency in Austria

Obtaining a residency visa in Austria is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Austria gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research the different types of residency permits
  • Visit the official Austrian government immigration website to understand the various types of residency permits available: Austrian Migration Portal.
  • Choose the type of residency permit that best suits your situation (e.g., Red-White-Red Card for skilled workers, Family Reunification, Student Residence Permit, etc.).
• Check eligibility requirements
  • Ensure you meet the criteria for the chosen residency permit, such as qualifications, financial means, health insurance, and absence of criminal record.
  • Prepare necessary documents like passport, birth certificate, proof of accommodation, and proof of financial means.
• Gather required documentation
  • Obtain a valid passport.
  • Get a birth certificate and, if applicable, a marriage certificate, translated into German by a certified translator.
  • Secure proof of accommodation in Austria (rental contract or property deed).
  • Provide proof of health insurance coverage valid in Austria.
  • Show evidence of sufficient financial means to support yourself (bank statements, salary slips, etc.).
  • Obtain a police clearance certificate from your home country.
• Apply for a residency permit
  • Complete the application form for the chosen residency permit, which can be found on the Austrian Migration Portal.
  • Submit the application form along with all the required documents at the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country, or at the appropriate residence authority in Austria if legally present.
  • Pay the application fee.
• Wait for the decision
  • Be prepared to wait for several weeks or months, as processing times can vary.
  • During this time, you may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional information.
• Register your address
  • Once in Austria, register your place of residence at the local registration office (Meldeamt) within three days of arrival.
  • Fill out the registration form (Meldezettel) and submit it along with a proof of accommodation.
• Apply for a Tax Identification Number
  • Visit the local tax office (Finanzamt) to apply for a tax identification number (Steuernummer).
  • Provide your passport, residency permit, and registration form (Meldezettel).
  • Once you receive your tax identification number, keep it safe as you will need it for employment and other official matters.
• Open a bank account
  • Choose a bank and visit a local branch.
  • Present your passport, residency permit, and proof of address (Meldezettel).
  • Complete the bank's application process to open an account.
• Enroll in German language courses (if necessary)
  • Find a language school or course that offers German language classes.
  • Enroll in a course appropriate for your language proficiency level.
  • Attending German classes may be a requirement for certain residency permits.
• Stay informed and comply with regulations
  • Regularly check the Austrian Migration Portal for any changes in immigration laws and residency requirements.
  • Renew your residency permit as required before it expires.
  • Follow all local laws and regulations to maintain your residency status.

Please note that the above steps are a general guide and the specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on your nationality, the purpose of your stay, and changes in Austrian immigration law. Always refer to the official Austrian government sources for the most current information.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Austria?

"In order to visit Austria for any length of time, foreign citizens must obtain a visa from the Austrian Embassy or Austrian Consulate in their home country prior to the trip. The visa application form needs to be completed and submitted along with the applicant’s passport and documents such as authentication of purpose of the journey and proof of sufficient funds. Depending on the purpose of the journey, additional documents may be required. To be eligible for residency in Austria, foreign citizens must meet certain requirements and follow a certain set of steps. Depending on their purpose for moving to Austria, individuals may need to complete a residence permit application form, submit proof of international health insurance coverage, provide proof of sufficient financial resources and demonstrate their language proficiency in German. Additionally, they may need to provide different documents and fulfill certain other criteria to be eligible for the Austrian residence permit," commented one member living in Austria.