Residency permits
All the news, information and practical advice about residency in Austria, including temporary and permanent residency status. Plus all you need to know about getting or renewing an Austrian residency permit.
How easy is it to retire to Austria?
Although Spain or Italy might have beaches and sun, Austria has plenty to offer someone looking for a place to spend their Golden Years. And while it's not the easiest place to retire to, it's still well within reach for many.
Reader question: How long can I stay out of Austria and keep my residency rights?
If you’re planning to leave Austria for a while, it’s important to know if it will affect your residency. This is what you need to know.
What you should do if you lose your residence permit in Austria
Non-EU nationals with the right to live and work in Austria are generally issued a residence permit in the form of an ID card. But what do you if you happen to lose this vital document - or if it gets stolen? Here's a step-by-step guide.
Vienna's immigration authority says citizenship cases not affected by corruption probe
The MA 35 has told The Local that the current investigation concerns residence permits, not citizenship cases, while rejecting reports of a raid and saying it was MA 35 itself that first reported the matter to prosecutors.
EXPLAINED: How long can you stay in Austria if you lose your job?
Losing a job can be a shock at the best of times, but it can be even more stressful if your residence permit is tied to employment. Here’s what you need to know about your rights in Austria.
REVEALED: Number of residency permits issued in Europe reaches record high
European Union countries issued a total of 3.9 million new residence permits to non-EU citizens in 2025, a 10 percent increase compared to 2024, and the “highest level” since records began, according to new data. But which countries issue the most?
'Insensitive and inefficient': Your verdict on Vienna's immigration office MA 35
International residents in Austria have spelled out a long list of complaints about the infamous MA35 immigration office in Vienna, although there were many who appreciated the service.
'Learn German': The best advice to get a residence permit in Austria
Difficult immigration departments, tricky paperwork and language barriers: getting a residence permit in Austria is a feat for many foreigners. We've compiled readers' advice on how to navigate the system.
Reader question: Do I need special permits to buy a home in Austria?
Austria’s rules for buying property differ depending on your nationality. Learn what permits are needed, and what taxes to expect.
'A nightmare': Lives of foreigners across Europe hit by residency card delays
Bureaucratic backlogs and rule changes on residency rights are having an increasing impact on the lives of foreigners living around Europe. Many say they have been left in legal limbo with their lives effectively on hold.
How many people hold residence permits in Austria and where are they from?
Austria offers a number of residence permits for people to live and work in the country. We look at recent figures that shed light on how many people have them at the moment and their origin country.
Which countries in Europe impose language tests for residency permits?
Certain countries across Europe demand foreign citizens pass a language test to qualify for certain residency permits. But how does each country compare and what level of language do they require?
How Brits in Austria can upgrade their Article 50 residence cards
British nationals in Austria are being encouraged to upgrade their post-Brexit "Article 50" cards in order to gain permanent residency in the country.
Which nationalities get the most EU Blue Cards and where do they go?
The EU hands out thousands of Blue Cards to highly-skilled third country nationals each year, according to the latest figures. But which nationalities receive the most and which EU country gives out the most?
The salary you need in Austria in 2026 to get an EU Blue Card
Thanks to its benefits and flexibility, the EU Blue Card is one of the most sought-after residence permits for non-EU nationals. Might you qualify for it in Austria?
TELL US: How hard is it to get a residence permit in Austria?
Austrian bureaucracy is notoriously difficult to navigate, with many foreigners saying they struggle with the process of applying for and renewing residence permits. We want to know how hard is it – and what's your advice?
'Don't miss out': Why Brits in Europe should upgrade their post-Brexit residence permits
It’s been five years since the end of the post-Brexit transition period and for many British citizens living in the EU this means 2026 will be the time to upgrade to a permanent residence card. But what happens if you forget or leave it late to apply?
The immigration changes that await foreigners in Austria in 2026 and beyond
From Red-White-Red Card changes to stricter citizenship standards and new integration duties, Austria’s 2026 plans point to a tougher and more structured system for newcomers.
How Americans can move to Austria in 2026
If you are thinking about leaving the US for Austria—whether for work, love, a new adventure, or any other reason—there are a few steps you need to take first. Here we list the options available for US citizens who plan to make the move.
COMPARE: Which country in Europe is the easiest to retire to?
Finishing work and heading off to a glorious new life as a retiree in Europe is the dream for many, but just how easy is it to do in reality? We compare the rules in 9 countries in Europe.
Vienna’s MA35 scraps district rules for residence permit appointments
Vienna’s immigration office MA35 has lifted district-based booking rules, allowing international residents to apply or renew their permits at any branch.
How much income do you need to get a residency permit in Austria in 2025?
Austria has updated its minimum income requirements for residency permits in 2025. Here’s how much you need to earn to qualify.
Can my British child born in Austria get an 'Article 50' residency card?
British parents in Austria may wonder if their children born after Brexit can obtain an Article 50 residency permit. Under certain conditions, children of UK nationals with Article 50 status can apply - but strict deadlines and documentation requirements apply.