Austria Golden Visa: Benefits, Eligibility & More in 2024

Written by

Mynaz Altaf

Fact check by

Afreen Abbasi

Updated on

Oct 08,2024

Austria Golden Visa: Gateway to EU Residency Through Investment- TerraTern

Planning your Canada PR
Free last minute checklist

Latest Facts and News:

• Golden Visa Austria: an ongoing top solution among high-income seekers in 2024
Changes in investment requirements: easier investment options
• Austria is among the top 10 countries in the world for quality of living
• The Austrian passport allows visa-free travel to 189 countries as of 2024

The Austria Golden Visa program presents one of the most phenomenal avenues toward a safe and wealthy lifestyle in Europe. This program has bestowed upon applicants, along with their families, the option of obtaining residency in Austria through investment. This opens doors to the Schengen Area and other benefits that Austrian residents bestow upon them. From real estate to business investment or government bonds, the Austria Golden Visa has various residency options. Strategic location, great lifestyle, and a possible future roadmap to citizenship- the program will most surely intrigue global investors looking to have roots in Europe.

Understanding the Austria Golden Visa Program

The Austria Golden Visa represents one of the major residency-by-investment visa schemes that allows non-EU nationals to obtain residency in Austria through large-scale investments. Unlike many other EU residency-by-investment programs, the Austria Golden Visa is highly esteemed for its high standards and the fact that it does not have a set investment threshold, with the requirement that applicants make a significant economic contribution towards the country. This is particularly appealing to investors who want to live in a stable and economically powerful EU member state that boasts high-quality health and educational facilities and a good business environment. Understanding the subtleties of the Austria Golden Visa is important for those considering long-term residence in the European Union.

Types of Investment Opportunities for the Austria Golden Visa

The Austria Golden Visa program offers various ways of investment that an applicant can use to apply for residency in Austria. Each has certain requirements and potential benefits and thus suits various investor profiles. The following are the major options for investment in this visa category.

1. Investment in Real Estate

  • Minimum Investment: There is a requirement to invest in Austrian real estate, residential or commercial, with a high minimum investment threshold.
    Benefits: Offers stable returns and ownership ability in one of the most desirable spots in Europe.

2. Business Investment

  • Minimum: The establishment of employment in an Austrian undertaking or an investment into said undertaking requires Austria's shareholders with at least one seat in the supervisory board or management to receive the minimum compensation.
  • Benefits: Suitable for entrepreneurs as the route allows business enterprises to enter the European market smoothly.

Also Read: Austria Visa for Indians: Types, Fees, Benefits & More 2024

3. Government Bonds

  • Minimum: Invest in Austrian government bonds, which are safe and carry low risks.
  • Benefits: It is financially secure, with the possibility of returns in the future and minimal risks.

Each investment option of the Austria Golden Visa program leads to residency through a different route, thus enabling the investor to choose the one that best fits his financial and personal objectives.

Types of Investment Opportunities for the Austria Golden Visa

Benefits of Austria Golden Visa

The following are the significant advantages of the Austria Golden Visa program:
• Visa-free travel in the Schengen Area to easily access 26 European countries
• Eligibility for Austrian citizenship after 10 years (with a minimum residence of six years in specific situations)
• Right of residence and to study and work in Austria and EU states
• Access to high-quality health services, education, and welfare system of Austria
• An opportunity to live in one of the richest European countries that offers an extremely high standard of living in general;
• Possibility to involve family members, such as spouse and dependent children, in an application.

Austria Golden Visa Eligibility Criteria for Indians

In the application to the Austria Golden Visa program, there are several specific criteria that the candidates must meet. These requirements ensure that only individuals who can contribute to the Austrian economy and society in the most positive way will obtain residency.

1. Financial Requirements:

  • Must meet the minimum investment threshold, which varies based on the chosen investment option estate, business, or government bonds.
  • Proof of a legal source of funds is required to prove financial capability and legitimacy.

2. Legal Requirements:

  • A clean record of not being involved with any criminal activities.
  • The applicant has to abide by the Austrian laws of immigration and other applicable legislation.

3. Personal Requirements:

  • Has health insurance that covers all medical expenses during the stay in Austria.
  • Basic German or English knowledge is requested or required due to the type of residence.
  • There is no plausible evidence that they will threaten public order, security, and health in Austria.

    These eligibility criteria ensure the applicant is financially stable, legally compliant, and personally prepared to contribute to Austrian society.
Austria Golden Visa Eligibility Criteria for Indians

Application Process for the Austrian Golden Visa

The application procedure for the Austria Golden Visa has different steps to ensure a smooth and efficient application process. Here is a step-by-step process on how to apply:

1. Required Documents

  • Gather all necessary documents that shall be required at the very outset, including:
    Proof of Investment: Documents proving the type of investment made, including but not limited to real estate deeds or business contracts. Personal Identification: A valid passport, birth certificate, and marriage certificate, where applicable.
  • Financial Documents: Bank statements showing proof of income and the legal derivation of your funds. Health Insurance: Health insurance, which is valid in Austria. Clean Criminal Record: Certificate of police clearance from home country. 

2. Application Submission

Once the documents are prepared, the application should be forwarded to your home country's Austrian Consulate or Embassy.

  • Ensure all forms are correctly filled out, and all supporting documents are attached.
  • The application fee must be paid upon submission.

3. Processing Time and Approval

  • The processing time for an Austria Golden Visa generally takes three to six months, but it may be longer, depending on the complexity of the application.
  • Upon review, an applicant will be informed of their approval and may make arrangements for residency accordingly.

    The Golden Visa application process is comprehensively handled to ensure your compliance with requirements and enable you to obtain your Austria Golden Visa as smoothly as possible.

Also Read: Austria Immigration - Here Is What You Need To Know

Living in Austria as a Golden Visa Holder

Austria Golden Visa holders enjoy the highest quality of life, which consists of world-class education and healthcare and very decent business opportunities.

1. Lifestyle and Culture

Apart from being a historically and culturally enriching experience, Austria has an enviable arts calendar and landscapes that are simply striking. The Golden Visa applicants residing either in Vienna, Salzburg, or the Alpine regions may immerse themselves in Austria's history, music, and tradition.

2. Education and Healthcare

The holders of the Golden Visa may also have access to Austria's first-class educational system, with its international schools and highly recognized universities. Health facilities are equally impressive, with universal health insurance covering all health aspects.

3. Business Opportunities

Equally, with the stable Austrian economy, several business opportunities abound for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Golden Visa holders in Austria can easily set up and expand their businesses to take advantage of the country's strategic location in Europe, with its modern economic infrastructure.

Personal testimonials often discuss easy integration into Austrian society, welcoming environments, and growth and prosperity in this beautiful country by Austria Golden Visa holders.

Austria's Golden Visa Compared with Other EU Programs

Here's a comparison table highlighting the unique features and advantages of the Austria Golden Visa compared to other popular EU Golden Visa programs:

Feature

Austria Golden Visa

Portugal Golden Visa

Spain Golden Visa

Greece Golden Visa

Minimum Investment

€3 million

€500,000 in real estate

€500,000 in real estate

€250,000 in real estate

Residency Requirement

No mandatory stay

7 days per year

No minimum stay

No minimum stay

Path to Citizenship

Yes, after 10 years

Yes, after 5 years of residency

Yes, after 10 years of residency

Yes, after 7 years of residency

Access to Schengen Area

Yes, full access

Yes, full access

Yes, full access

Yes, full access

Family Inclusion

Yes, spouse and children

Yes, spouse, children, and parents

Yes, spouse, children, and parents

Yes, spouse, children, and parents

Tax Benefits

Favorable tax regime for non-domiciled residents

Non-habitual resident tax regime

Possible reduction in income tax

Favorable tax regime

Processing Time

3-4 months

4-6 months

2-3 months

3-4 months

This table offers a quick comparison, helping potential investors understand the unique features and advantages of the Austria Golden Visa compared to other EU residency-by-investment schemes.

Read More: Cost of Living in Austria in 2024: Experts Latest Guide

Conclusion

The Austria Golden Visa is a great opportunity for people who want to obtain residency in one of Europe's most prosperous and stable countries. With benefits including visa-free access to the Schengen Area, one of the best qualities of life in the world, and possible ways toward citizenship, this program stands out from all the rest of EU residency-by-investment programs. By acknowledging how to satisfy the qualification criteria, one should go about the application process and understand the probable effects on one's tax status. Be it personal or business reasons for which you want to invest in Austria, the Austria Golden Visa creates a very solid route to your goals.

To learn more about Austria Golden Visa and ways to immigrate to Austria easily, you must contact TerraTern right away. With over a hundred immigration services and an expert team, TerraTern should be your go-to for all your immigration needs!

Get all the details on Australia PR with this visa checklist

Why Trust TerraTern

At TerraTern, we adhere to a stringent editorial policy emphasizing factual accuracy, impartiality and relevance. Our content, curated by experienced industry professionals. A team of experienced editors reviews this content to ensure it meets the highest standards in reporting and publishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to obtain Austrian citizenship through the Golden Visa program?

Obtaining Austrian citizenship through the Austria Golden Visa program typically requires a minimum residency period of 10 years. Unlike some other EU Golden Visa programs, Austria has a longer path to citizenship, and the process includes meeting specific residency, language, and integration requirements. It's important to note that residency does not automatically lead to citizenship, and applicants must go through a separate naturalisation process after fulfilling the residency criteria.

Can family members be included in the Austria Golden Visa application?

Yes, family members can be included in the Austria Golden Visa application. This typically includes the applicant's spouse and dependent children. Each family member included in the application will also gain residency rights in Austria, allowing them to live, study, and work in the country. The inclusion of family members is one of the key benefits of the Austria Golden Visa, making it an attractive option for those seeking to relocate with their family.

Are there any language requirements for the Austria Golden Visa?

There are no specific language requirements for obtaining the Austria Golden Visa itself. However, if the applicant aims for Austrian citizenship later, they will need to demonstrate proficiency in German, as language skills are a requirement for naturalisation. The Austria Golden Visa is primarily focused on investment and residency, so while language skills are not mandatory for the visa, they may become relevant in the future if citizenship is the goal.

What are the tax implications of obtaining residency in Austria through investment?

Obtaining residency in Austria through the Austria Golden Visa can have tax implications, particularly for those with significant global income. Austria offers a favourable tax regime for non-domiciled residents, which may provide certain benefits, such as exemptions on foreign income. However, residents may be subject to Austrian tax on their worldwide income if they establish their tax domicile in the country. Consulting a tax professional is advisable to fully understand the implications based on individual circumstances.

Can I maintain my current citizenship while holding the Austria Golden Visa?

Yes, you can maintain your current citizenship while holding the Austria Golden Visa. The Austria Golden Visa grants residency status but does not require you to renounce your existing citizenship. However, if you later pursue Austrian citizenship, you may need to relinquish your original citizenship, as Austria generally does not allow dual citizenship. It’s important to consider your long-term goals and the legal implications of maintaining or changing your citizenship status.