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2 ways to enter

Austria visas

Austria family visa

Qualifying family members of European single market citizens can enter Austria without a visa using a valid travel document and a residence card showing their family status.

Ways to get a Austria family visa

  1. Visa-free entry with a family residence card

    No visa needed

    Family members of any nationality who hold a qualifying residence card and valid travel document can qualify.

    Stay
    Up to three months.

  2. Family-member visa at the border

    Visa on arrival

    In principle, family members of European single market citizens who lack the documents needed for the exemption can obtain a visa at the border by proving the family relationship.

    1. Present evidence of your qualifying family relationship at the border checkpoint.
    2. Request a visa under the family-member rules.

Who needs it

Family members who do not meet the exemption conditions may need a visa.

Who doesn't

Family members of any nationality with the qualifying residence card are exempt when accompanying or joining their European single market family member. A qualifying card issued by a Schengen state also allows independent travel.

What to bring

  • A valid travel document.
  • A residence card showing that you are a family member of a European single market citizen.

Good to know

  • Normally, accompany or join the qualifying family member.
  • A qualifying family residence card issued by a Schengen state also allows travel independently.
  • These entry rules do not describe Austria's full process for long-term family residence.
  • European single market citizens include citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.

Questions

Do I need a family visa for Austria?

Family members who do not meet the exemption conditions may need a visa. Family members of any nationality with the qualifying residence card are exempt when accompanying or joining their European single market family member. A qualifying card issued by a Schengen state also allows independent travel.

What are the ways to get a family visa for Austria?

There are 2 options: Visa-free entry with a family residence card (no visa at all); Family-member visa at the border (a visa at the border).

Who can go to Austria without a family visa?

Family members of any nationality who hold a qualifying residence card and valid travel document can qualify.

How long can I stay on a Austria family visa?

Up to three months under the family-member entry exemption.

What documents do I need for a Austria family visa?

A valid travel document.; A residence card showing that you are a family member of a European single market citizen..

What rules do I have to follow on a Austria family visa?

Normally, accompany or join the qualifying family member. A qualifying family residence card issued by a Schengen state also allows travel independently.

Does my passport change whether I need a family visa for Austria?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Austria visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a family visa for Austria be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Austria family visa rules?

On Austria's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my family visa once I am in Austria?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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