Austria Digital Nomad Visa
In this article
Are you a digital nomad searching for your next adventure? Look no further than
Austria. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture,
Austria is a dream destination for remote workers.
Photo by Sorasak on Unsplash
Imagine spending your days sipping coffee at a Viennese café, surrounded by
baroque architecture and breathtaking views of the Alps. Or hiking through the
lush forests and mountain trails in Salzburg during your off-hours. With the
Austria Digital Nomad Visa, all of this is possible.
Whether you're a seasoned digital nomad or just starting out, Austria is the
perfect destination for your next adventure. Keep reading this
comprehensive guide
to learn everything about the Austria Digital Nomad Visa, including
the application process, eligibility requirements, and insider tips for
making the most of your time in Austria.
Does Austria Have a Digital Nomad Visa?
No. Austria does not currently have a dedicated digital nomad visa for
non-EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens. Instead, these individuals can enter
Austria on a tourist visa or a visa-free travel agreement and work remotely for
up to three months without any restrictions.
However, if you are an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen, you're in luck! You can live
and work in Austria as a digital nomad for up to
three months without any restrictions. This means you can explore all
that Austria has to offer, from its stunning architecture to its breathtaking
landscapes, while working remotely.
Alternatives to the Digital Nomad Visa for Austria
If you are a non-European Union, EEA, or Swiss citizen looking to work remotely
in Austria for more than three months, there are some alternatives to consider.
The Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders
For entrepreneurs who wish to launch a company in Austria but are non EU citizens,
EEA, or Switzerland, there is a form of visa known as the
Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders. With the option of an extra
three-year extension, this long term visa permits these people to live and work in
Austria for up to two years.
To be eligible for this visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Non-EU, EEA, or Swiss citizenship
- A concrete business plan that is innovative and has the potential to create jobs and boost the Austrian economy
- Necessary qualifications and experience to run a business.
- Proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay in Austria.
- Establish a minimum capital requirement of €50.000 for the startup firm, along with a minimum ownership stake of 50%.
- Can achieve a minimum score of 50 points based on the application criteria.
Who Is Eligible to Apply
Non-EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens with an innovative business plan and sufficient
financial means to support themselves during their stay can be eligible for the
Austrian Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders. Necessary qualifications and
experience to run a business, satisfactory knowledge of the German language, and
proof of health insurance coverage are also required.
How to Apply for the Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders?
To apply for the Austrian Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders, applicants
must follow these steps:
- 1. Develop a business plan that is innovative and has the potential to create jobs and boost the Austrian economy.
- 2. Gather all necessary documents, including proof of financial means, qualifications and experience, health insurance coverage, and a copy of the business plan.
- 3. Submit the application to the Austrian embassy or consulate in their home country.
- 4. Attend an interview at the embassy or consulate, if required.
- 5. Await the decision, which can take up to six months.
- 6. If approved, collect the Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders from the embassy or consulate and travel to Austria.
It's important to note that the application process can be quite lengthy and involved,
and it's crucial to ensure that all necessary documents are submitted on time and in
the correct format.
How Much Does It Cost?
Obtaining a Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders in Austria involves several
costs, which include:
- Application fee: The fee for submitting an application for the Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders is 100 Euros.
- Residence permit fee: Once the application is approved, applicants will need to pay a fee of 120 Euros for their permit.
- Health insurance: It is mandatory to have health insurance in Austria, and the cost of coverage will depend on the provider and plan chosen.
- Business-related costs: Applicants will also need to cover the costs associated with starting their business in Austria, including registration fees and any other necessary expenses.
It's important to note that these costs can vary depending on individual circumstances,
and you should budget accordingly. Additionally, you may be required to provide proof
of sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay in Austria,
which should include an allowance for these costs.
Do Remote Workers Have to Pay Taxes in Austria?
Yes. In most cases, you will be required to pay tax in Austria. Austria has a
residence-based tax system, which means that if you spend more than 183 days in
the country in a tax year, you will be considered a resident for tax purposes
and will be subject to Austrian taxation on your worldwide income.
However, if you are a resident of another country with which Austria has a double tax
treaty, you may be able to avoid paying taxes twice on the same income. You can check
the tax treaty between your home country and Austria to see if you are eligible for
tax relief.
Living as a Digital Nomad in Austria: Pros & Cons
Are you considering Austria as your next digital nomad destination? Before you pack
your bags, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of living in this beautiful country.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Austria is generally considered high, especially in larger
cities like Vienna or Salzburg. Here's a breakdown of some of the common expenses
for digital nomads:
- Housing/rents: The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Vienna is around €800-€1,200 per month, depending on the location. In smaller cities, the cost may be slightly lower.
- Utility bills: The cost of utilities (electricity, water, heating, etc.) for a small apartment is around €150–€200 per month.
- Groceries and food: A basic basket of groceries for a week for one person costs around €50–€70. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant can cost around €15–€20 for a main course.
- Transportation: Public transportation is well-developed and affordable, with a monthly pass for Vienna costing around €50.
Popular Destinations & Coworking Spaces for Digital Nomads
Austria is known for its stunning natural scenery,
picturesque winter destinations,
rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities, making it a popular destination for
digital nomads. Vienna, the capital city, is a hub for tech and innovation, while
Salzburg offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Graz, Linz, and Innsbruck are also emerging
as popular destinations for remote workers.
Several coworking spaces across Austria provide excellent infrastructure, networking
opportunities, and events. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Talent Garden Vienna: A coworking space with a variety of services and amenities, including high-speed internet, meeting spaces, and an events area, is situated in Vienna.
- Impact Hub Vienna: This is one of the best co working spaces in Vienna that offers access to events, city center, workshops, and mentoring programs as well as a network of social entrepreneurs and innovators.
- CoSpace Salzburg: This is a cutting-edge coworking space with flexible desks, conference spaces, and events in Salzburg.
- Stockwerk Coworking: This coworking facility in Graz provides a variety of workplaces, including private offices and communal workstations, as well as meeting spaces and events.
- Techquartier Innsbruck: An ecosystem for startups and entrepreneurs is provided by this startup center and coworking space in Innsbruck which provide all amenities for the digital nomad community.
Entry Requirements: ETIAS Visa Waiver
Starting from November 2023, travelers from eligible countries will be required to
obtain an ETIAS visa waiver to enter Austria.
This applies to non EU citizens from countries who are currently visa-free. The
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is a
digital authorization that allows for stays of up to
90 days within 180 days.
The application process is simple and can be completed online. The cost is 7 euros
and the authorization is valid for three years or until the passport expires,
whichever comes first.
Austria Digital Nomad Visa: The Bottom Line
Austria may not offer a specific digital nomad visa, but there are still options for
remote workers to legally live and work in this picturesque country. The Red-White-Red
Card for Start-Up Founders is one such option, allowing founders to establish their
businesses and enjoy the benefits of living in Austria.
While the cost of living in Austria is relatively high, the country offers a high quality
of life, excellent public transportation, and beautiful scenery. From the stunning cities
of Vienna and Salzburg to the picturesque alpine villages, Austria is a country that
offers a lot to digital nomads. With the
ETIAS visa waiver coming into effect in 2023, travelers need to stay informed
about the entry requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Austria have digital nomad visa?
Austria does not have a specific digital nomad visa. However, the country offers various visa options that might be suitable for remote workers and entrepreneurs, such as the Red-White-Red Card or the Start-up Visa.What are the requirements and eligibility criteria for obtaining a visa as a digital nomad in Austria?
The requirements and eligibility criteria for obtaining a visa will depend on the specific visa category chosen. For example, the Red-White-Red Card is one possible option, and it typically requires a job offer from an Austrian employer, proof of qualifications, and evidence of sufficient financial means. The Start-up Visa is another option for those looking to establish innovative businesses in Austria. It may require a solid business plan, sufficient funds, and endorsement from an approved entity.
Related Articles
ETIAS.org is a privately owned website and it’s not operated by the government.
ETIAS.com is an informational site for ETIAS. The site contains paid links from our partners.
