ETIAS for Austria

Citizens of eligible countries will soon need an ETIAS visa waiver to go to Austria. Europe’s travel authorisation will be operational from 2026 .

Over 40 million people visit Austria each year, known for its architecture, in particular its museums and palaces, and unspoiled countryside. The nation is also a popular winter sports destination.

Once ETIAS is implemented, Austria will be safer than ever for tourists: the European visa waiver is being introduced to boost security across the Schengen Area.

Austria became a member of the European Union in January 1995, at the same time as Sweden and Finland. There are currently 18 members of the European Parliament from Austria.

Since joining the EU, foreign direct investment has increased 3 fold, its central European location makes it particularly interesting for international business.

The nation has also benefited from signing the Schengen agreement. Austria became part of a border-free travel zone after eliminating its borders in 1995.

In recent years, Austria has been involved in the development of ETIAS, the new system to pre-screen third-country visitors before they enter the Schengen Area.

Once the new visa waiver system is operational, residents and tourists will benefit from increased security in the EU thanks to ETIAS: potentially risky individuals will be prevented from entering Europe legally.

Austria offers the opportunity to enjoy mountainous landscapes and charming villages. Austria is a beautiful place with many historical landmarks and interesting tourist attractions.

Europe’s visa liberalisation policy has encouraged an increasing number of overseas visitors to Austria in recent years. Travellers who can take advantage of this scheme will be able to register with ETIAS from 2026 before heading to Austria.

What’s more, bordered by 8 other countries, Austria can be visited from other top European destinations, facilitated by border-free movement in the Schengen Area.

English is widely spoken in Austria, particularly in the capital and tourist areas and in hotels, shops, and restaurants. Austria is ranked as having “very high” levels of English proficiency and is ranked 8th in the world on the EF English Proficiency Index.

Austria is an easy country to explore given its relatively small size and efficient transport services. Bus and train routes connect the main towns and cities whilst good road networks make it possible to see much of the stunning natural landscapes.

IS MEDICAL INSURANCE NEEDED FOR AUSTRIA?

Citizens of other EU countries should take their EHIC card with them when travelling to Austria. Holders of a European Health Insurance Card can access healthcare across Europe.

Non-EU nationals may be required to take out medical insurance in order to go to Austria. This depends on the type of permit they need to enter Europe.

HEALTH INSURANCE FOR ETIAS AUSTRIA

Passport holders from any one of the territories included in Europe’s visa liberalisation policy do not need to take out medical cover to obtain ETIAS.

Although not one of the requirements to have an ETIAS, overseas visitors are advised to consider health insurance in order to enjoy Austria with greater peace of mind.

MEDICAL INSURANCE FOR SCHENGEN VISA FOR AUSTRIA

Third-country nationals who do not qualify for ETIAS must instead apply for a Schengen visa for Austria.

As this is a traditional visa application, more paperwork is required including proof of medical cover. The insurance policy must be for a minimum of €30,000 and be valid for the entire Schengen Area.

Schengen visa applications will be rejected if evidence of healthcare is not provided.

CROSSING AUSTRIAN BORDER CHECKPOINTS

Given that there are no internal borders within the Schengen Area, EU citizens should simply have their identification document on their person when passing through an Austria border checkpoint.

Europe’s visa liberalisation policy means that many non-EU nationals are currently able to enter Austria without applying for a visa, only a valid passport is required.

ETIAS will be operational from 2026 . The visa waiver will become mandatory for all non-Europeans eligible for visa-free access to the Schengen Area.

ETIAS will also be required to visit Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Romania which are in the process of joining the Schengen Area.

As it is linked electronically to the passport, travellers will not need to carry or present any additional documentation on arrival at the border.

Foreigners from other countries will be asked to present the following before being granted access to Austria:

Questions about the purpose and length of stay may be asked on arrival in Austria.

ARRIVING IN AUSTRIA BY PLANE, CAR, AND TRAIN

Vienna International Airport (IATA: VIE, ICAO: LOWW) is the main airport in Austria and where most international arrivals fly into. Vienna airport is located in Schwechat, around 11 miles (18 km) from the center of the capital.

The main air carriers operating out of Vienna International Airport are Austrian Airlines and Eurowings Europe, in addition to a number of low-cost airlines.

Year-round flights make this a popular and convenient option for visitors from overseas.

High-speed trains connect Austria with neighbouring European nations: France, Germany, Italy, and Hungary can all be reached by rail.

Another option is by bus, this is a good idea for trips to towns and cities close to the Austrian border. The bus from Salzburg to Munich takes under 3 hours and tickets are relatively inexpensive.

As Austria shares land borders with 8 countries, driving between nations is hassle-free. Motorists should ensure they have their passport with an ETIAS visa waiver attached, or valid Schengen visa when driving over the frontier.

As well as the enchanting capital, Vienna, there are many more Austrian towns and cities worth visiting:

Austria has been home to some of the world's most renowned artists and musicians. The legacy of Mozart, Klimt, Schubert, and more is palpable in the country today. Their work has been well preserved in several museums and galleries.

Keen skiers from around the world flock to Austria each winter. Amongst its top ski resorts are St. Anton am Arlberg, Kitzbühel, and Sölden. The Austrian slopes offer something for everyone, from beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders.

For those with a sweet tooth, Austria is a tempting destination. The smell of fresh pastries and cakes from cafes and bakeries fill the streets. Visitors are encouraged to try the signature Apfelstrudel.