RESIDENCE PERMIT IN AUSTRIA

The high standard of living and location in the center of Europe make Austria one of the most attractive places for immigrants from different parts of the world. Many Austrian cities are considered to be the most favorable places to live, for example, Vienna is a world leader in this respect.

The main benefits of moving to Austria

  • Stunning nature with many ski resorts.

  • High-quality education in prestigious Austrian universities, which is practically free of charge.

  • Wide opportunities for opening and doing business in Austria.

  • Safety and high social standards.

  • Sufficient number of programs for professional immigration to Austria.

The Austrian authorities are well aware of the advantages of their country, so quite strict requirements are imposed on potential immigrants, especially those planning a long-term stay. For example, for foreigners from third countries (from outside the EU) set special quotas for the number of annual residence permits (residence permits) in Austria.

Residence permit in Austria

In addition, sometimes even before moving to the country requires a special certificate of proficiency in the German language. All this must be taken into account and in advance to consult with competent lawyers or specialized immigration specialists. Further, let's understand how to get a residence permit in Austria for foreigners in 2024 and what documents will be required.

How to get a residence permit in Austria

Any foreigner planning to move to Austria for a long period of time, usually more than 6 months, should apply in advance to the Austrian Consulate in his country to obtain a residence permit. Some people are allowed to apply for a residence permit already in Austria, e.g. spouses and children of EU citizens or residents of countries that do not require a visa to enter Austrian territory.

In any case, however, it should be taken into account that the application and documents for a residence permit in Austria are processed for at least 2-6 months. Therefore, it may be necessary to go to your country and there to wait for the decision of the Austrian authorities. As in most European countries, a residence permit in Austria is issued in the form of a plastic card with biometric data of the owner (fingerprints and photo).

Initially, the document is granted for one year, with the right to extend, but there are longer terms, 2-3 years. After 5 years of continuous residence in Austria it is allowed to apply for permanent residence, and 10 years will allow to apply for an Austrian passport, sometimes it may take more or, on the contrary, less time.

For third-country nationals who plan to stay in Austria for more than two years and accordingly obtain a residence permit, there is a procedure for signing a special "integration agreement". The main purpose of the document is to oblige the foreigner to attend German language courses, which will allow for faster and more effective adaptation in Austrian society.

Types of residence permits in Austria

  • Temporary residence permit (Aufenthaltsbewilligung). It means staying in Austria for a certain period of time to fulfill specific purposes, usually for a short period of time. For example, it is issued to seasonal workers, representatives of foreign companies, students, businessmen, scientists, artists, journalists.

  • Long-term residence permit (Niederlassungsbewilligung). It is intended for a longer stay in Austria or permanent residence. For example, it is granted to close relatives of a foreigner for family reunification, certain categories of foreign workers and entrepreneurs, pensioners, provided that they are financially secure.

Detailed information about the conditions for obtaining residence permit in Austria is presented on the official Austrian resources – migration.gv.at and help.gv.at.

Documents for residence permit in Austria

Depending on the grounds for obtaining a residence permit, the Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs may require additional information, but usually a foreigner must provide the following documents:

  1. A duly completed and signed residence permit application form in German.

  2. Payment of the state fee, which is partially paid at the time of application and the remainder already in Austria upon receipt of the document.

  3. A valid passport with a final expiration date of at least 3 months before the planned date of expiration of the residence permit and one blank page.

  4. Copies of all pages of the valid and previous passports.

  5. Two color photographs of the established sample.

  6. Birth certificate or notarized copy with apostille stamp.

  7. Certificate of no criminal record, issued not later than 3 months before the date of application, certified with an apostille stamp.

  8. Health insurance.

  9. Documentary proof of sufficient funds for living in Austria. For example, a bank statement, job reference or other proof. In 2024, the monthly amount must be at least:

    • for a single person – 1,110.26 euros
    • for a couple – 1,751.56 euros

    • for each child – 171.31 euros

  10. Availability of a place of residence on Austrian territory. It is allowed both in ownership and on the rights of rent.

  11. Depending on the grounds for obtaining a residence permit in Austria is required to provide a supporting document that the candidate has the right to do so. For example, a work permit, a letter of enrollment in a university, a marriage certificate, information about the business and so on.

  12. Third-country nationals for certain types of residence permits in Austria, mainly for permanent residence or family reunification, need a German language proficiency of at least A1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference. For this purpose you will need a diploma or a certificate of language courses in a specialized institution recognized in Austria.

For more detailed requirements to the list of documents for obtaining a residence permit in Austria, please check with the staff of the Austrian diplomatic department in your country.

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