Visa Types
Austria Permanent Residency Pathway
How you can immigrate to Austria, how to protect yourself from Fraud and What to expect after you arrive in Austria.
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What Is Schengen Visa?
The Schengen Visa is a type of visa that allows travelers to visit and travel within the Schengen Area, which is a group of 29 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders. This means that a person with a Schengen Visa can move freely between these countries without having to go through immigration checks at the border. To obtain a Schengen Visa, applicants need to apply at the embassy or consulate of the country they intend to visit or spend most of their time in. The visa allows for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period and can be used for tourism, business, or other purposes. However, the visa does not grant the holder the right to work or study in the Schengen Area.
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Here Are The Schengen Area Countries As Of March 2024:
Schengen Area signifies a zone where 29 European countries abolished their internal borders(countries of Schengen agreement). Here is the list of the countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia , Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. These countries apply common policies in terms of short-term visas.
Key Points for Austria PR Visa >>>
Do you need a visa to travel to Austria?
To visit Austria, Indians will need a Schengen visa.
Austria visa application is made online or offline?
The visa application form and file submission, including all needed papers, are done offline.
Do I need to give biometrics?
Yes, biometrics are required to obtain a visa.
Is there an interview required to obtain an Austria visa?
No, an interview is not usually required to obtain an Austria visa, but it may vary. The embassy may interview you by phone or in person.
You can live indefinitely on a permanent resident (PR) visa.
You can live indefinitely on a permanent resident (PR) visa.
What kind of visa will we acquire from Austria?
It will be a physical sticker visa, which will be affixed to a page in your passport
Current Visa fees: (Updated on 16-10-2023)
For Visa Application Fee: Click Here
Step-by-step guide
Let us walk you through the process
- Determine your visa type and eligibility, considering the guidelines for your category, before proceeding with the application process.
- Gather the necessary documents, including any required translations if your documents are not in English. Be aware of the potential application duration and associated fees.
- Access the common information for Schengen visa applicants in India to acquire comprehensive details aligned with the Schengen cooperation.
- To apply for your visa, please download the visa application form and complete it. Once completed, print the form and bring it to the Visa Application Centre for submission.
- Please note that the Austrian Embassy in New Delhi will assess your visa application, and applications sent via post will not be accepted.
- You have the option to submit your visa application in person at the Visa Application Centre or through a representative or authorized travel agent.
- Click here for Guide To Fill Out The Visa Application Form
- After submitting your visa application, it is necessary to schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre to provide your biometric information, including fingerprints and a photo.
- Once you have booked your appointment, an email confirming the appointment, along with the letter of appointment, will be sent to you.
- Please note that the Austria Visa Application Centre in New Delhi cannot accept or process applications sent through courier or post. Therefore, you must submit and collect your application either in person or through an authorized representative or a Travel Agent.
- Upon completing your visa application, it is necessary to pay the visa application fee at the VFS Centre.
- If you have downloaded the application form to print and bring to the Visa Application Centre, you can make the payment at the time of your appointment.
- When you visit the Visa Application Centre, you will need to personally submit your fully completed visa application form.
- The Visa Application Centre is responsible for processing visa applications for the Austrian Embassy in New Delhi, which covers India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives, and Bangladesh.
- Once a decision is made on your visa application, you'll receive an email update. If you prefer more detailed tracking information or don't have easy access to email, you may be able to receive updates via SMS. Check with the Visa Application Centre for availability.
- Additionally, you can track your visa application status online. Use the Reference Number from your invoice/receipt and your last name to access the tracking service and get the latest updates on your application.
- After a visa application decision is made, you can collect your documents/passport from the Visa Application Centre or have them delivered by courier, based on your chosen delivery mode during application submission.
Third-party collection of documents/passports is generally not allowed, except for the following cases:
- Immediate Family Members (parents, children, siblings, spouse)
- Authorized persons collecting on behalf of Official and Diplomatic passport holders (with government authorization)
- Company representatives (with an authorization letter on company letterhead and official ID card)
Individuals collecting on behalf of the applicant in the above cases need to bring:
- Photocopy of their government-issued ID card
- Original ICR (Invoice/Receipt)
- Authorization letter from the applicant
If the processed passport/envelope includes a letter issued by the Embassy, the applicant must personally visit the Visa Application Centre where they applied, regardless of the chosen delivery mode. This is to sign the letter.
DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
When applying for a PR visa to Austria, you will generally need to provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. The following checklist covers the most common documents needed:
- Valid Passport:
- Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of the application process.
- Completed Application Form:
- Obtain the application form for permanent residency from the relevant Austrian authorities.
- Fill out the form accurately and provide all requested information.
- Proof of Identity:
- Copies of your passport and any previous residence permits or identity cards.
- Proof of Residence:
- Documents demonstrating your continuous and legal residence in Austria, such as rental agreements, utility bills, or employment contracts.
- Employment or Income Documentation:
- Proof of employment, including employment contracts, payslips, or business registration documents.
- If you are self-employed, provide relevant business documentation, such as tax returns and financial statements.
- Health Insurance:
- Proof of health insurance coverage for you and any accompanying family members.
- This can include public health insurance or private health insurance policies.
- Language Proficiency:
- Evidence of your proficiency in German, which is often required for permanent residency.
- This can be demonstrated through language certificates or completion of recognized language courses.
- Financial Stability:
- Proof of financial stability, such as bank statements, investment portfolios, or property ownership documents.
- This demonstrates your ability to support yourself and any accompanying family members in Austria.
- Criminal Record Clearance:
- Obtain a criminal record clearance certificate from your home country or any other countries you have resided in.
- This certificate should confirm that you have no criminal convictions.
- Marriage or Partnership Documentation:
- If applicable, provide marriage certificates or proof of registered partnerships.
- Include birth certificates for any children.
- Proof of Integration:
- Documentation demonstrating your integration into Austrian society, such as participation in community activities, volunteer work, or educational courses.
- Additional Supporting Documents:
- Any additional documents specified by the Austrian authorities or specific to your individual circumstances.
- This can include proof of qualifications, professional licenses, or letters of recommendation.
Note: It is essential to carefully review the requirements and guidelines provided by the Austrian authorities for permanent residency applications. Additionally, it is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or seek advice from the relevant Austrian government offices to ensure you have all the necessary documents and meet the eligibility criteria for permanent residency in Austria.
- Red-White-Red Card Plus:
- Valid Passport.
- Completed Application Form for Red-White-Red Card Plus.
- Passport-sized Photographs.
- Proof of Residence: Rental agreement, utility bills, or other documents demonstrating continuous legal residence in Austria.
- Proof of German Language Proficiency: Language certificates or completion of recognized language courses.
- Proof of Income/Social Security Contributions: Employment contracts, payslips, or social security payment records.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for you and any accompanying family members.
- Additional Documents as requested by the Austrian authorities.
- EU Blue Card:
- Valid Passport.
- Completed Visa Application Form.
- Passport-sized Photographs.
- Proof of Employment: Job offer or employment contract with a specific minimum salary threshold.
- Qualification Documents: Educational degrees, diplomas, or certificates.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, financial documents, or employment contract indicating sufficient funds.
- Health Insurance.
- Accommodation Details.
- Additional Documents as requested by the Austrian authorities.
- Family Reunification:
- Valid Passport.
- Completed Application Form for Family Reunification.
- Passport-sized Photographs.
- Proof of Family Relationship: Marriage certificate, registered partnership certificate, or birth certificates for children.
- Proof of Family Member’s Austrian Citizenship or Permanent Residency: Copy of the family member’s passport or residence permit.
- Proof of Residence: Rental agreement, utility bills, or other documents demonstrating continuous legal residence in Austria.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for you and any accompanying family members.
- Additional Documents as requested by the Austrian authorities.
- Long-Term Resident – EU:
- Valid Passport.
- Completed Application Form for Long-Term Resident – EU.
- Passport-sized Photographs.
- Proof of Legal Residence: Residence permits or registration certificates showing continuous legal residence in Austria for at least five years.
- Proof of German Language Proficiency: Language certificates or completion of recognized language courses.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for you and any accompanying family members.
- Additional Documents as requested by the Austrian authorities.
- Settlement Permit – Gainful Employment:
- Valid Passport.
- Completed Application Form for Settlement Permit – Gainful Employment.
- Passport-sized Photographs.
- Proof of Work Permit or Red-White-Red Card: Copies of the work permit or Red-White-Red Card showing a minimum duration of five years.
- Proof of German Language Proficiency: Language certificates or completion of recognized language courses.
- Proof of Income/Social Security Contributions: Employment contracts, payslips, or social security payment records.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for you and any accompanying family members.
- Additional Documents as requested by the Austrian authorities.
- Settlement Permit – Self-Employed:
- Valid Passport.
- Completed Application Form for Settlement Permit – Self-Employed.
- Passport-sized Photographs.
- Business Plan: Detailed plan outlining the nature of the business, market analysis, financial projections, etc.
- Proof of Self-Employment: Business registration documents, tax returns, financial statements, and other relevant business documentation.
- Proof of German Language Proficiency: Language certificates or completion of recognized language courses.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for you and any accompanying family members.
- Additional Documents as requested by the Austrian authorities.
- Settlement Permit – Researcher or Scientist:
- Valid Passport.
- Completed Application Form for Settlement Permit – Researcher or Scientist.
- Passport-sized Photographs.
- Invitation Letter: From a recognized research institution or university in Austria.
- Research Project Details: Description of the research project, its relevance, and expected outcomes.
- Proof of Academic Qualifications: Educational degrees, diplomas, or certificates.
- Proof of German Language Proficiency: Language certificates or completion of recognized language courses.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for you and any accompanying family members.
- Additional Documents as requested by the Austrian authorities.
- Settlement Permit – Special Cases:
- Valid Passport.
- Completed Application Form for Settlement Permit – Special Cases.
- Passport-sized Photographs.
- Documentation supporting exceptional circumstances: This can vary based on thespecific case. Examples include proof of extraordinary achievements, unique contributions, or compelling humanitarian reasons.
- Proof of German Language Proficiency: Language certificates or completion of recognized language courses (if applicable).
- Proof of Residence: Rental agreements, utility bills, or other documents demonstrating continuous legal residence in Austria.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for you and any accompanying family members.
- Additional Documents as requested by the Austrian authorities based on the specific circumstances.
Note: Please note that the document requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and specific pathway. It is essential to consult with the relevant Austrian authorities, such as the Austrian Immigration Authorities or the Austrian Embassy/Consulate, to get accurate and up-to-date information regarding the document checklist and application process for each pathway.
VISA APPLICATION FORMS
Before submitting your visa application, please ensure to review the list of required documents. The guidelines provided on this website will assist you in preparing your documents accurately. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of your visa application being rejected due to incorrect or insufficient documents.
National Visa Category (D) visa form:
Note: It is important to acknowledge that visa requirements and procedures are subject to change. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult the official website of the Austrian Embassy or Consulate in your country for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the application process for a Austrian Permanent Residence visa.
VISA APPLICATION GUIDELINES:
The process for applying for a permanent residence in Austria typically involves the following steps:
- Eligibility assessment: Determine your eligibility for permanent residence in Austria. This may depend on factors such as your length of stay, employment status, family ties, or other specific criteria.
- Fulfillment of residence requirements: In most cases, you will need to demonstrate that you have legally and continuously resided in Austria for a certain period of time. The duration of residence required may vary depending on the category you are applying under.
- Documentation: Prepare the necessary documents to support your permanent residence application. This can include identification documents, proof of residence, employment records, family-related documents (if applicable), and any other relevant supporting documents.
- Application submission: Submit your permanent residence application to the competent Austrian authority. This may be the Austrian Immigration Authorities or the local immigration office.
- Application processing: Your application will be reviewed and assessed by the authorities. They may request additional documents or conduct interviews as part of the evaluation process.
- Notification of decision: Once a decision is made on your application, you will be notified of the outcome. If your application is approved, you will receive a permanent residence permit or card.
- Residence registration: As a permanent resident, you may need to register your residence with the local authorities. This step ensures that your address is officially recorded in Austria.
Note: It is important to note that the process and requirements for obtaining permanent residence in Austria can vary depending on the category you are applying under, such as employment-based, family-based, or long-term resident EU. It is advisable to consult with the relevant Austrian authorities or seek professional advice to understand the specific requirements and procedures applicable to your situation.
- Red-White-Red Card Plus:
- The Red-White-Red Card Plus is a pathway to obtain permanent residence in Austria for skilled workers with specific qualifications and skills in demand in the country.
- It allows individuals who have been working and residing in Austria on a Red-White-Red Card to apply for permanent residence.
- Eligibility is based on factors such as:
- Very Highly Qualified Workers
- Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations
- Other Key Workers
- Graduates of Austrian Universities and Colleges of Higher Education
- Regular Workers in Tourism, Agriculture and Forestry
- Self-employed Key Workers
- Start-up Founders
- EU Blue Card:
- The EU Blue Card is a work permit category that allows highly skilled non-European Union (EU) citizens to work and reside in Austria.
- It is designed to attract professionals with high qualifications and specific expertise.
- To be eligible for the EU Blue Card, applicants must have a higher education degree or extensive professional experience, along with a job offer in Austria that meets certain salary and employment conditions.
- Holding an EU Blue Card can lead to permanent residence in Austria after meeting specific requirements.
- Family Reunification:
- Family Reunification is a pathway to obtain permanent residence in Austria for family members of Austrian citizens or permanent residents.
- Eligible family members include spouses, children, parents, and dependent relatives.
- Applicants must meet specific requirements and provide evidence of their family relationship.
- Successful applicants are granted a residence permit that allows them to join their family member in Austria and eventually obtain permanent residence.
- Long-Term Resident – EU:
- The Long-Term Resident – EU status is available to individuals who have legally resided in Austria as a long-term resident EU for a certain period.
- To qualify, individuals must have held a valid residence permit for at least five years.
- Applicants need to demonstrate that they have stable and sufficient resources, comprehensive sickness insurance, and have integrated into Austrian society.
- Successful applicants are granted the status of a long-term resident EU, which provides them with permanent residence rights in Austria.
- Settlement Permit – Gainful Employment:
- The Settlement Permit – Gainful Employment is a pathway for individuals who have been legally employed in Austria for a certain period and wish to obtain permanent residence.
- The duration of required employment may vary depending on factors such as the labor market situation and the applicant’s qualifications.
- Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial means, health insurance coverage, and have integrated into Austrian society.
- Successful applicants are granted a settlement permit, which allows them to settle permanently and work in Austria.
- Settlement Permit – Self-Employed:
- The Settlement Permit – Self-Employed is for individuals who have been self-employed in Austria for a certain period and wish to obtain permanent residence.
- Applicants must demonstrate that their self-employment has been successful, contributes to the Austrian economy, and meets certain legal and economic requirements.
- They must show sufficient financial means, have health insurance coverage, and have integrated into Austrian society.
- Successful applicants are granted a settlement permit, which allows them to settle permanently and continue their self-employment activities in Austria.
- Settlement Permit – Researcher or Scientist:
- The Settlement Permit – Researcher or Scientist is for individuals engaged in scientific research or academic activities in Austria.
- Applicants must have an invitation from a recognized research institution or university in Austria and demonstrate their qualifications and contributions to the field.
- They must provide evidence of sufficient financial means, health insurance coverage, and integration efforts.
- Successful applicants are granted a settlement permit, allowing them to settle permanently in Austria and continue their research or academic work.
- Settlement Permit – Special Cases:
- The Settlement Permit – Special Cases category is for individuals who have exceptional circumstances that warrant consideration for permanent residence in Austria.
- This category covers various situations such as humanitarian reasons, significant contributions to Austria, or other special circumstances.
- Each case is evaluated individually, and applicants must provide substantial evidence to support their request for permanent residence.
- The specific requirements and documentation needed may vary depending on the circumstances of the case.
- Successful applicants are granted a settlement permit, which allows them to settle permanently in Austria based on their unique circumstances.
For more information: https://www.migration.gv.at/en/types-of-immigration/
Note: It’s important to note that the requirements and processes for each category may vary, and it’s advisable to consult with the relevant Austrian authorities or seek professional advice to understand the specific requirements and procedures for obtaining permanent residence in Austria based on your individual circumstances.