Austria Residence by Investment

Austria offers residence permits for high-net-worth individuals and investors through different pathways. Though Austria doesn't have a direct Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, its residence permits can eventually lead to citizenship under certain conditions.

Key Requirements
  • Proof of Clean Criminal Record:
    Applicants must submit a clean criminal record from their home country.
  • Proof of Accommodation:
    Applicants must provide a rental agreement or proof of ownership of property in Austria.
  • Health Insurance:
    Applicants must provide proof of comprehensive health insurance that is valid in Austria.
  • Language Requirement:
    Some applicants may need to demonstrate basic German knowledge (A1 level of the European Framework for Languages).
  • Physical Residence:
    Applicants must spend at least 183 days per year in Austria to maintain residency status.
Application Process
  • Submitting an Application

    Applications are usually submitted through Austrian embassies or consulates abroad. Along with the application form, all necessary documents (proof of funds, accommodation, health insurance, etc.) need to be provided.

  • Background and Financial Checks

    The authorities will perform thorough background checks, including verifying financial means and sources of income. The applicants must personally submit the mandatory documentation to the Austrian consular or diplomatic representation in their current country of residence. Once the residence permit application has been approved, applicants need to obtain a special visa at the Austrian embassy to travel to Austria and collect the residence permit from the relevant authority.

  • Issuance of Residence Permit

    Once approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal. Non-EU and non-EFTA citizens must sign an integration agreement if they will be residing in Austria for more than 24 months. The residence and settlement permits are issued in the form of a card and can be renewed each year.

  • Renewals and Permanent Residency

    After 5 years of continuous residence, individuals can apply for permanent residency. Citizenship is available after 10 years of residence, though it may be possible to apply earlier under special conditions (e.g., significant economic contributions).

  • Citizenship Eligibility

    Only a select number of applicants will be chosen due to the strict annual quota of around 300 individuals in place for the Austrian Private Residence Program. Applicants must fulfill several conditions, such as having a minimum of EUR 40,000 in liquid funds, providing proof of permanent residential real estate, having private healthcare insurance, and demonstrating documented German language skills (at A1 level).

Program Wise Fee Structure
Capital Contributions
Program Fee
  • Artistic output/national heritage: €250,000
  • Donate to scientific research institutions: €500,000
Processing Fee
  • Administrative Fee: €2,000
  • For each applicant
Due Diligence Fee
  • Principal Applicant: €5,000
  • Dependent: €2,500 (18+)
Benefits of Austria Residence by Investment
  • Visa-Free Travel within the Schengen Area: Residence in Austria allows visa-free travel across all Schengen Area countries, enabling seamless movement for personal and business travel throughout Europe.

  • No Requirement to Reside Permanently in Austria: Applicants are not required to reside permanently in Austria to maintain their residence permit, offering flexibility for investors who wish to retain their primary residence elsewhere.

  • Access to High-Quality Education and Healthcare: Austria offers access to world-class education and healthcare facilities for residents, ensuring a high quality of life for the entire family.

  • Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After five years of continuous residence, investors may apply for permanent residency, with the potential to apply for citizenship after 10 years, or even earlier under specific conditions.

  • Stable and Secure Environment: Austria provides a politically stable and secure environment, making it an ideal location for investors seeking to safeguard their assets while enjoying an attractive lifestyle.

Austria's Residence by Investment program offers a secure and attractive opportunity for high-net-worth individuals looking to reside in the heart of Europe. While the country does not offer direct citizenship through investment, the pathway to long-term residency, and eventually citizenship, is accessible through financial stability, business investments, and integration into Austrian society. With its strategic location, high quality of life, and access to the European Union, Austria remains an appealing destination for investors seeking residence options.

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