Visa Requirements for Nigerians Travelling to Austria
Key highlights
- Austria is part of the Schengen Area, allowing travel to 29 European countries.
- Standard tourist visas allow for stays up to 90 days.
- Applications from Nigeria are typically processed via VFS Global.
- Biometric data (fingerprints) collection is required for all applicants.
- Mandatory travel insurance must cover the entire Schengen zone.
- Proof of strong ties to Nigeria is essential for approval.
- The Austrian Embassy in Abuja makes the final decision on all applications.
Processing time
15-30 working days
Processing times may increase during peak summer (June-August) or winter holiday seasons. Nigerian applications often undergo additional security verification.
Estimated cost
~€130 (including service fees)
- Schengen Visa Fee (Adults)€90.00
- Schengen Visa Fee (Children 6-12)€45.00
- VFS Global Service FeeVaries
Requirements
- Valid Nigerian Passport with at least two blank pages.
- Proof of legal residence in Nigeria (if not a citizen).
- Sufficient financial means evidenced by 6 months of bank statements.
- Evidence of social and economic ties to Nigeria (e.g., employment, property, family).
- Confirmed hotel reservation or Electronic Letter of Guarantee from an Austrian host.
- Round-trip flight reservation.
- Travel medical insurance valid for all Schengen countries.
- Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificates of children).
- Clear travel itinerary outlining activities in Austria.
- Payment of the non-refundable visa fee.
Documents you'll need
- Original Nigerian passport with at least two blank pages and 6 months validity.
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm) on a white background.
- Completed and signed Schengen Visa application form.
- Travel health insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage for all Schengen states.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter from a host in Austria).
- Flight itinerary showing round-trip travel from Nigeria.
- Verifiable proof of financial means (six months of bank statements).
- Introduction letter from employer or business registration documents (CAC).
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Identify Visa Type
Determine which visa type you need (Tourist, Business, or Visitor) based on the primary purpose of your trip.
- 2
Book an Appointment
Register on the VFS Global website to book an appointment at the application centre in Lagos or Abuja.
- 3
Prepare Documentation
Carefully fill out the Schengen Visa application form and gather all supporting documents in the required format.
- 4
Submit Application and Biometrics
Attend your appointment to submit your documents, pay the visa and service fees, and provide your biometric data.
- 5
Attend Interview (if required)
You may be called for a secondary interview at the Austrian Embassy in Abuja to discuss your travel plans.
- 6
Track Application Status
Track your application status online via the VFS Global tracking tool until a decision is reached.
- 7
Collect Your Passport
Collect your passport from the application centre or receive it via courier, ensuring you check the visa details immediately.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure all bank statements are stamped and signed by the bank.
- Double-check that your travel insurance specifically mentions 'Schengen Area' coverage.
- Provide a detailed cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit and your itinerary.
- Avoid submitting 'fake' or temporary flight bookings; use verifiable reservations.
- Be consistent: ensure dates on your insurance, hotel, and flight reservations match perfectly.
- Submit the 'Electronic Letter of Guarantee' (EVE) if you are being invited by a resident in Austria.
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.