Austria Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Valid for travel throughout all 27 Schengen Area countries.
- Allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Mandatory biometric data collection ensures high security standards.
- Requires proof of comprehensive travel medical insurance.
- Standardised application process via VFS Global or direct embassies.
- Essential for non-visa-exempt nationals planning alpine or city holidays.
Processing time
15 calendar days
Processing times can increase significantly during peak summer and winter holiday seasons. It is recommended to apply at least 3-4 weeks in advance.
Estimated cost
~$140
- Standard Schengen Visa Fee (12+ years)€90 (~$98)
- Child Fee (6-12 years)€45 (~$49)
- VFS/TLS Service Provider Fee (approximate)$30-$45
Requirements
- Applicant must be a national of a country that does not have a visa-liberalisation agreement with the EU.
- The main purpose of the trip must be tourism or private visitation.
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover the cost of living during the stay in Austria.
- A clean criminal record and no prior history of Schengen visa overstays.
- The applicant must not be considered a threat to public policy, internal security, or public health.
- Valid travel insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation.
- Evidence of intent to leave the Schengen Area before the visa expires.
- Accommodation must be confirmed for the entire duration of the stay.
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport with at least two blank pages and 3 months validity remaining beyond return date.
- Two recent biometric passport photographs (ICAO standard).
- Completed and signed visa application form.
- Round-trip flight reservations and a detailed travel itinerary.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter from a host).
- Travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage for the entire Schengen area.
- Proof of financial means (recent bank statements from the last 3-6 months).
- Proof of socio-economic ties (employment contract, student enrollment, or business registration).
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check Eligibility
Determine if you need a visa based on your nationality and ensure Austria is your main destination or first point of entry.
- 2
Complete Application Form
Complete the official Austrian Schengen Visa application form accurately; ensure all information matches your passport.
- 3
Schedule Appointment
Book an appointment at the nearest Austrian Embassy, Consulate, or authorised Visa Application Centre (like VFS Global).
- 4
Gather Documentation
Collate all required documents, including bank statements, insurance, and flight itineraries, into a professional folder.
- 5
Attend Biometric Session
Attend your appointment to submit your documents, pay the visa fee, and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
- 6
Application Processing
Wait for the embassy to process your application. You can often track the status online via the service provider's portal.
- 7
Passport Collection
Once a decision is made, collect your passport in person or via courier to check the visa sticker for accuracy.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your bank statements are recent and stamped by the bank to prove authenticity.
- Do not purchase non-refundable flights until the visa is granted; use 'flight reservations' instead.
- Clearly explain any previous visa rejections in your cover letter to build transparency.
- Double-check that your insurance policy explicitly mentions 'Schengen' and '€30,000' minimum coverage.
- Maintain a consistent itinerary; inconsistencies between hotel dates and flight dates often lead to refusal.
- Be prepared to explain your ties to your home country (job, family, property) during the interview.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.