Austria Digital Nomad Visa

Nadia Dardón

Freelance writer

Last update 4 November, 2023

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Quick Visa Facts

Visa length 90 days

Possible to extend? No

Who can apply? Nationals of specific third countries

Minimum Income Requirements N/A

Time for visa applications up to 30 days

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Austria Digital Nomad Visa Overview

Austria is a beautiful country located in the Eastern Alps. With stunning landscapes and well-developed cities, Austria offers multiple benefits to anyone who visits.

The sad news is that Austria does not have a digital nomad visa for non-EU citizens. Any EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen can live and work in Austria as a digital nomad, for up to three months, without restrictions. If they wish to extend their time, they’ll need to register their stay at a local registration hall.

For non-EU citizens, sadly, it isn’t that easy. In order to live long enough in Austria, you’ll need to find a job in the country, from an Austrian company. However, this isn’t the only option. Digital nomads can travel to Austria under different types of visas that will allow them to stay in the country for a limited time.

Types of Austria Digital Nomad Visas Options

If you’re not a EU citizen and you wish to live in Austria as a digital nomad, you can apply for other visa options. There are visas that allow you to work as self-employed, or enter for tourism reasons. Here’s a rundown of the best visa options for non-EU digital nomads.

Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders

The Red-White-Red Card for Start-up Founders is aimed at people who are looking to start a company that develops innovative products, services, or technologies. These products or services must benefit the Austrian economy.

In order to qualify for the Red-White-Red Card for Start-up Founders, you must fulfill the following conditions:

• Submit a consistent business plan

• Have a key position and influence in the management of the company

• Prove capital for the company amounting to €50,000 minimum with an equity share of at least 50%

• Score 50 points minimum according to the application criteria

ETIAS Visa Waiver

The ETIAS travel authorization was created as a security measure to fight Europe’s migration crisis. Citizens from eligible countries are required to obtain a visa waiver EITAS for Austria. This is completed online and the process is very quick.

The ETIAS visa waiver is not active yet, it will be implemented in 2024.

Schengen Visa for Austria

The Schengen Area is formed by countries that have signed the Schengen Agreement, which regulates the free movement of people among its people. The Schengen Visa allows you to travel to any country in the Schengen Area for tourism or business purposes.

The Schengen Visa is not only valid for Austria, but for a total of 27 European countries. This visa allows you to stay for 90 days in a 180-day period.

Many nationals of countries do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Area. But for those who do, they’ll need to apply for this one.

What Austria Visa Type Is the Best for Digital Nomads?

The best visa option for digital nomads in Austria is the Schengen Visa and the ETIAS visa waiver. It’ll allow any visitor to stay for 90 days in a 180-day period.

Who Can Apply for the Austria Visa?

Any non-EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen can apply for the Austrian Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders, as long as they have an innovative business plan and sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay.

Only specific countries are required to apply for the Schengen Visa for Austria. This also applies for the ETIAS visa waiver.

If You Are a United States Citizen

If you’re a US citizen, then you may enter and remain there for tourism or business purposes for no longer than 90 days within 180 days without the need of a Schengen Visa.

Starting in 2024, all US citizens will need the ETIAS travel authorization to stay for up to 90 days per 180-day period.

If You Are an EU Citizen

EU citizens do not need a visa to enter Austria. Any EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen can live and work in Austria as a digital nomad, for up to three months without restrictions. If they wish to extend their time, they’ll need to register their stay at a local registration hall.

If You Are a Citizen of Canada

Canadian citizens do not need a Schengen Visa for stays in Austria for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days for business, visitor, and/or tourist purposes.

If You Are a Citizen of Australia or New Zealand

Australian and New Zealand citizens are allowed to stay in Austria for up to 90 days without a visa. Starting in 2024, all Australian and New Zealand citizens will be required to obtain the online document known as ETIAS.

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Austria Schengen Visa Requirements

If you’re applying for the Schengen Visa for Austria, there are several documents you will need. Make sure to make the application properly to avoid any delays or denials of your visa.
Here is a list of all the documents you’ll need:

• Schengen Visa Application Form

• Valid passport

• Two identical photos. Not older than six months.

• Proof of financial means

• Proof of accommodations

• Cover letter

• Flight Itinerary

• Health or travel insurance

Proof Of Accommodation

In order to apply for the Schengen Visa for Austria, you’ll need to show proof of accommodation.

You may show one of the following:

• Hotel Booking or Reservation

• Sponsorship

• Evidence of a pre-paid tour

Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency

There is no minimum income requirement to apply for the Schengen Visa for Austria. However, you still need to show proof of financial self-sufficiency. You can show personal bank statements, credit cards, traveler’s checks, or proof of employment.

Full Health Insurance

Having health or travel insurance is an important requirement. The insurance should be valid for your stay in the Schengen Area, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR for medical emergencies.

How to Apply for the Austria Schengen Visa—Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1— Gather Documents

Before you start the application process, make sure you have all the documents needed. In order to  avoid any delays or denials of your visa, pay close attention to all the requirements so you don’t make any mistakes.

Step 2—Complete Schengen Visa Form

You can find the application form on this official website. The visa application form has 37 questions you must complete by hand. Pay close attention and make sure there aren’t any mistakes.

Step 3—Book Your Schengen Visa Appointment

You can schedule a visa appointment online, or you can visit the closest Embassy or Consulate.

Step 4—Attend Schengen Visa Appointment

After making your appointment, you must attend your interview appointment. This is a short interview where you’ll be asked personal questions about your whereabouts, the intended trip, and other travel details.

Step 5—Pay Visa Fee

After attending your interview, you must make the payment for the visa fee. It costs around €80 per person and it is non-refundable.

Step 6—Wait For Visa Approval

The final step is to wait for your visa to be approved. You’ll be contacted directly with a response from the Embassy or Consulate where you applied.

Timeline for Applying for the Austria Visa

The application process is relatively quick, depending on the country where you’re applying from. It usually takes from 15 to 45 days.

How Much Does Applying for an Austria Visa Cost?

The visa fee is around €80 per person.

Austria Visa Denial

If your visa application is denied, you will receive a notification with the reasons behind the denial. You may issue an appeal for the visa rejection, or apply again.

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Living in Austria as a Digital Nomad

Austria is a well-developed country that has everything any expat or remote worker could ever need. Austria is often ranked as one of the safest countries with a very low crime rate. This country has a lot to offer, from beautiful landscapes and incredible culture, you’ll love living in Austria as a digital nomad.

Capital Vienna

Form of Government Democratic republic

Population 8.95 million

Climate Pannonian and Alpine climate

Language German

Currency Euro (€)

3 people in Austria!

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Attractions and Best Places to Visit

Austria’s Imperial Palace

The spectacular Hofburg Palace in Vienna is a showstopper. For centuries, it worked as the seat of Austria’s monarchy, the Habsburgs. This amazing palace has many different architectural influences, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Classicism. You can visit the gardens and museums and explore this amazing piece of Austria’s history.

Melk Benedictine Abbey

Melk Abbey is one of the world’s most famous monastic sites. It is a massive 325-meter-long complex with a twin-towered church. It is perched on a rocky outcrop high above the town of Melk and overlooking the Danube.

Hallstatt

Hallstatt is the most picturesque small town in Austria. From there, you can explore the spectacular Dachstein Salzkammergut region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The small town showcases stunning Baroque architecture, which speaks volumes of Hallstatt’s wealth, which is based on its long history of salt production from prehistoric times.

Kitzbühel

If you’re looking for some excitement, head towards one of the best places to ski in Austria. The popular resort town of Kitzbühel spoils snow lovers with its 170 kilometers of skiable pistes and slopes. Kitzbühel is not just for skiers, it is a beautiful town that anyone can visit. With walls and frescoed houses, and snow-covered Alps for a backdrop, the town is just beautiful.

Digital Nomad Hotspots

Vienna

City in Austria

Vienna is one of the best cities in Europe for all types of visitors. It boasts a high quality of life, and it offers plenty of amazing sights and activities. The city is full of cute cafés and other restaurants and spots that are perfect for working remotely. Plus, the city itself has a lot of history and culture, you’ll love everything about it.

Salzburg

City in Austria

Salzburg is the perfect city for anyone looking to add a little adventure to their day-to-day life. In Salzburg, you can go skiing, snowboarding, surfing, mountain climbing, and many more things. The city is also great because it has a low criminal rate, the healthcare system is affordable and of excellent quality, and it has high-speed internet. 

Graz

City in Austria

This is another amazing town for digital nomads. The town has one of the fastest internet in the country, and it is home to multiple co-working spaces. Many digital nomads make Graz their home, so you’ll find a big community there. The city is also very eco-friendly, and it has a low criminal rate.

Benefits of Working in Austria as a Digital Nomad

There are many benefits to living in Austria as a digital nomad. It is considered one of the safest countries in Europe, with very low criminal rates.

Plus, the city is well-developed and offers a high quality of life. The healthcare system is affordable and accessible, plus it is of excellent quality.

Austria also boasts high-speed internet, and there are multiple cities all over the country that make the perfect home for expats, remote workers, and digital nomads. You’ll find plenty of co-working spaces, cafés and other restaurants.

Austria is a dream come true for anyone who wishes to make it their home for however long.

Cost of Living

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay per month rentals in Vienna

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay per month in Salzburg

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay per month in Graz

Digital Nomad Essentials

Internet (speed) 77.57 Mbit/second

Time Zone (GMT+2)

Socket Type Type F sockets

Calling Code +43

How to Get a SIM Card in Austria

Our all-in-one app has everything you need. It has a huge range of regional and global provider options that cover all countries, including Austria! Plus, the prices are accessible, and the purchase process is easy.

Time To Visit Austria!

As you can see, there are plenty of options for digital nomads to make Austria their next destination. It is a well-developed country, considered to be one of the safest countries in Europe.

It has everything a digital nomad could wish for. From stunning Alpine landscapes, to charming cities, and friendly locals. Austria is definitely a place to add to your bucket list.

FAQs About Austria Digital Nomad Visa

Does Austria Have a Digital Nomad Visa?

No, unfortunately, Austria does not have a digital nomad visa. However, there are other visa options that digital nomads can use to visit and live in Austria. 

What Is the Length of the Austria Visa?

The Schengen Visa is valid for 90 days within a period of 180 days.

Is It Possible to Extend the Austria Visa?

No, if you wish to extend your time in Austria then you’ll need to apply for a different visa. 

Will You Get a Refund for Visa Application If You Are Denied?

No, the visa fee is non-refundable. 

How Much Money Do You Need per Month in Austria?

There is no minimum income requirement for the Schengen Visa. Just make sure you have enough to support yourself during your stay.

Is there a Digital Nomad Community In Austria?

Yes! There are many digital nomads living in Austria. You’ll find plenty of co-working spaces and meet-ups for other digital nomads and expats. 

What Austria Neighboring Countries Issue Visas for Digital Nomads?

SwedenSwitzerlandUnited KingdomBulgariaIrelandAlbaniaSerbiaLatviaTurkeyCyprusRomaniaMaltaHungaryNorwayIcelandCroatiaGreeceMontenegroPortugalCzech RepublicFranceThe NetherlandsGeorgiaEstoniaSpainGermanyItaly

Author

Nadia Dardón

Freelance writer

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Nadia Dardón is a freelance writer from Guatemala. In early 2022 she embarked as a digital nomad, traveling through Europe, focusing mostly on the literary history of each country. She has worked fully remotely for the past four years as a reader, writer, and content creator with experience creating pieces for different industries. She also has a personal blog where she writes about her cultural and literary travels.