Austrian passports hold the 7th position globally according to the VisaGuide Passport Index as of July 2023. This powerful passport provides its holders with visa-free access to 159 countries across the globe. However, for the remaining countries, an advance visa application is mandatory for Austrian citizens.

Countries with Visa-Free Access for Austrian Citizens

As per the data from July 2023, Austrian passport holders are granted visa-free entry into the following 159 countries and territories:

Though visa-free travel is allowed, it is essential that your passport remains valid - generally for six months beyond the date of your planned departure. Additionally, acquiring travel health insurance may be necessary, as mandated by your destination country.

Countries Accessible with an ID Card for Austrian Citizens

Austrian citizens can enjoy passport-free travel to several countries by merely presenting their ID card. The list of these countries is as follows,Albania ,Andorra, Aruba ,Belgium ,Caribbean Netherlands ,Bosnia and Herzegovina ,Bulgaria ,Croatia, Curaçao, Cyprus ,Czechia ,Denmark ,Estonia ,Faroe Islands ,Finland ,France ,French Guiana, French Polynesia ,French West Indies ,Georgia ,Germany ,Greece ,Greenland ,Hungary ,Iceland, Ireland ,Italy ,Latvia ,Liechtenstein, Lithuania ,Luxembourg, Malta ,Mayotte ,Netherlands ,New Caledonia ,Norway ,Poland ,Portugal ,Réunion ,Romania ,San Marino, Serbia ,Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Saint Martin ,Sweden, Switzerland ,Vatican City.

Countries Providing eVisa to Austrian Citizens

A select group of 10 countries extends the facility of eVisa to Austrian passport holders. These countries are:

The eVisa acquisition process largely resembles the traditional visa application, with the added convenience of online submission, including payment. Once approved, the eVisa confirmation and document are emailed, which needs to be printed and presented at the border. Despite your visa being registered online, it is wise to keep the hard copy handy during your travel.

Countries Offering Visa-on-Arrival to Austrian Citizens

Austrian citizens can benefit from the visa-on-arrival facility in 30 countries. These countries include ,Bahrain ,Bangladesh ,Burkina Faso, Burundi ,Cambodia ,Comoros, Egypt, Guinea-Bissau ,Iran ,Jordan ,Kuwait ,Laos ,Lebanon, Madagascar, Malawi ,Maldives ,Mauritania ,Mozambique ,Myanmar ,Nepal, Papua New Guinea ,Rwanda ,Saudi Arabia ,Seychelles, Sierra Leone ,Somalia ,Saint Helena ,Tanzania ,Togo ,Zimbabwe.

Upon landing in these countries, you can apply for your visa-on-arrival at a dedicated section in the airport.

Countries Requiring Visa for Austrian Citizens

Austrian citizens are required to obtain a valid visa in advance for entering the following 27 countries:

How to Apply for a Visa as an Austrian Citizen?

Visa application as an Austrian citizen involves a series of steps:

• Schedule an appointment: Contact a local visa application center in Austria and set up an appointment for submitting your application. This might take several months due to potential waiting times.
• Prepare your documents: Accumulate the necessary documents, such as your passport, application form, health insurance, etc., required for Austrian Citizens. Ensure some of these documents are certified by a foreign office or endorsed with an apostille stamp.
• Submit your application: After completing the aforementioned steps, submit your application and attend the visa interview. You might be required to provide your biometrics as well. After the translation of documents as specified by the consulate or embassy and getting them endorsed with an apostille stamp, you can submit your application. It may then take several weeks for a decision on your visa application.

Please remember that if you already have a valid visa permitting entry into multiple countries, there's no need to apply for a new one.

What Documents are Required for Visa Application?

To visit countries requiring advance apply for e-Visa application, Austrian citizens need to submit specific documents. While the requirements may vary depending on the destination country, most will likely ask for the following:

• Your valid Austrian passport (along with a photocopy). The passport should be valid for a minimum of six months beyond your planned departure date.
• A completed visa application form.
• Recent passport photos (not older than six months).
• Travel health insurance covering the entire duration of your stay.
• Proof of visa fee payment.
• Detailed travel itinerary.
• Letter of invitation (if required).
• Proof of return flight booking.
• Evidence of accommodation booking.
• Proof of sufficient funds for the visit.
• Civil status documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, etc.

Please note that your visa application might be denied if you have a criminal record.

Schengen Agreement and Austrian Citizens

Austria is part of the Schengen Agreement, which allows Austrian citizens to travel freely within the 26 countries of the Schengen Area without passport controls at the borders. However, it's recommended to carry an ID or passport to prove your nationality if needed.

Working Abroad for Austrian Citizens

Austrian citizens looking to work abroad need to consider work visa requirements, which can vary by country. In the EU, the freedom of movement allows Austrians to work without needing a visa. However, in countries outside the EU, Austrians typically need a work visa or permit. The process usually involves having a job offer in place and the employer sponsoring the visa.

Studying Abroad for Austrian Citizens

For Austrian citizens looking to study abroad, many countries require a student visa. In the EU, Austrians can study without a visa. But outside the EU, the process usually involves applying to a school, getting accepted, and then the school will typically assist with the visa application process.

Traveling with Children for Austrian Citizens

Austrian citizens traveling with children should be aware that many countries require additional documentation for minors, particularly if only one parent or guardian is traveling. This can include notarized consent forms and copies of the non-traveling parent's ID. Always check the requirements of your destination country before travel.

Dual Citizenship and Travel for Austrian Citizens

Austrian citizens with dual citizenship should be aware of the potential issues and benefits when it comes to travel. Traveling with two passports can provide more options for visa-free travel, but it's essential to use the same passport when entering and leaving a country. Be aware of the laws regarding dual citizenship in your destination country.

Emergencies Abroad for Austrian Citizens

In the case of emergencies abroad, Austrian citizens should contact the nearest Austrian embassy or consulate. They can provide assistance in the event of a lost or stolen passport, health emergencies, legal troubles, or other crises. It's advisable to have the contact information for the Austrian embassy or consulate in your destination country.

Vaccination Requirements for Austrian Citizens

Certain countries have vaccination requirements or recommendations for travelers. Austrian citizens should check these requirements and, if necessary, carry an International Certificate of Vaccination, also known as the Yellow Card, which proves that they have had the required vaccines.

Remember, these topics might require more specific research or personalized information depending on the nature of the travel and the individual's circumstances.

FAQ

Q1: How long does my passport need to be valid for when traveling visa-free?
A: For most countries, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay.

Q2: Can I work in a country I have entered visa-free as an Austrian citizen?
A: No, visa-free entry is usually for tourism purposes only. If you intend to work, you will need to apply for a work visa or permit for that country, unless it's an EU country due to the freedom of movement.

Q3: I am an Austrian citizen with dual citizenship. Which passport should I use to travel?
A: If the country you're traveling to recognizes dual citizenship, you can use either passport, but ensure you enter and exit the country with the same passport. If the country does not recognize dual citizenship, use the passport of the country that is recognized.

Q4: What should I do if I lose my passport while abroad?
A: Contact the nearest Austrian embassy or consulate. They can assist with issuing an emergency travel document.