Austria Golden Visa Program

Program Overview

The Austria Golden Visa Program represents one of Europe’s most exclusive citizenship-by-investment pathways, offering foreign nationals direct access to Austrian citizenship through substantial economic contributions. Unlike traditional residency programs, Austria’s investment scheme provides immediate citizenship upon approval, making it a unique opportunity for high-net-worth individuals seeking European Union citizenship and one of the world’s most powerful passports.

Austria’s investment program is designed to attract exceptional investors who can make significant contributions to the Austrian economy while creating employment opportunities and supporting the country’s economic development. The program operates on a highly selective basis, with a strict annual quota of maximum 300 applicants, ensuring exclusivity and careful vetting of participants.

Located in the heart of Europe, Austria offers investors access to one of the world’s most stable economies, exceptional quality of life, and a strategic location providing seamless access to European markets and beyond.

Key Benefits

Immediate Citizenship: Direct pathway to Austrian citizenship upon approval without residency waiting periods

Global Mobility: Visa-free travel to 199 destinations worldwide, including the United States and United Kingdom

EU Membership Benefits: Full access to live, work, and study anywhere within the European Union

Family Inclusion: Comprehensive coverage for spouse and dependent children under 21 years

Economic Stability: Access to one of Europe’s wealthiest and most stable economies

Quality of Life: World-class healthcare, education, and social services in one of the world’s safest countries

Strategic Location: Central European location providing access to major European markets

Schengen Access: Unrestricted travel throughout the 27 Schengen Area countries

Investment Requirements

Option A: Government Fund Contribution

Structure: Direct contribution to Austrian government development funds

Investment Range: EUR 2,000,000 – EUR 10,000,000 (approximately $2.2M – $11M USD)

Requirements:

• Significant contribution to government-designated funds
• Investment must support Austrian economic development
• Funds must be legally sourced and documented
• Contribution is non-refundable upon citizenship grant

Option B: Joint Venture Investment

Structure: Partnership investment in Austrian businesses or projects

Investment Range: EUR 2,000,000 – EUR 10,000,000 (approximately $2.2M – $11M USD)

Requirements:

• Main applicant must have notable influence over the organization
• Entity must demonstrate robust economic performance
• International reputation and credibility required
• Investment must create significant full-time employment

Option C: Venture Capital Investment

Structure: Investment in Austrian venture capital funds or startup ecosystem

Investment Range: EUR 2,000,000 – EUR 10,000,000 (approximately $2.2M – $11M USD)

Requirements:

• Investment in approved venture capital funds
• Focus on innovative Austrian businesses
• Demonstrated job creation potential
• Support for Austria’s economic external relations

Option D: Priority Business Investment

Structure: Investment in innovative businesses designated as first priority by Austrian government

Investment Range: EUR 2,000,000 – EUR 10,000,000 (approximately $2.2M – $11M USD)

Requirements:

• Government approval of business priority status
• Significant job creation for Austrian nationals
• Innovation and technology focus preferred
• Measurable economic impact demonstration

Eligibility Categories

High-Net-Worth Investors

Individuals capable of making substantial financial commitments to the Austrian economy through government-approved investment vehicles. Investors must demonstrate legitimate source of funds and commit to maintaining investments throughout the approval process.

Strategic Business Leaders

Entrepreneurs and business leaders with proven track records in establishing and managing successful international enterprises. Candidates must demonstrate ability to create significant employment and economic value in Austria.

Innovation Pioneers

Technology leaders and innovators capable of contributing to Austria’s competitive advantage in emerging sectors. Focus on individuals with expertise in high-growth industries and proven ability to scale businesses internationally.

Family Inclusion

Eligible Family Members

Spouse: Legal spouse included in citizenship application with same rights and benefits

Children: Dependent children under 21 years of age at time of application

Family Requirements

Citizenship Renunciation: All family members must renounce current citizenship as Austria does not recognize dual citizenship

Residency: All family members must establish residence in Austria

Insurance: Private medical insurance required for all family members

Language: Basic German language proficiency may be required for family members

Family Benefits

• Immediate Austrian citizenship upon approval
• Full EU citizenship rights and benefits
• Access to Austrian education and healthcare systems
• Visa-free travel with Austrian passport
• Right to live and work anywhere in the European Union

Terms and Conditions

Citizenship Requirements

Age: Must be over 18 years old at time of application

Criminal Record: Clean criminal background from all countries of residence

Residency: Must establish and maintain residence in Austria

Language: A1 level German language proficiency required

Citizenship: Must renounce current citizenship upon Austrian citizenship grant

Investment Obligations

Minimum Investment: EUR 2,000,000 – EUR 10,000,000 depending on investment category

Job Creation: Significant full-time employment creation for Austrian nationals

Economic Impact: Demonstrable positive impact on Austrian economy

Compliance: Ongoing compliance with Austrian business and tax regulations

Annual Quota System

Maximum Applications: 300 applications accepted annually

Selection Criteria: Highly competitive selection process

Application Window: Limited application periods throughout the year

Priority Processing: Applications processed on first-come, first-served basis within quota

Contact Us To Start Your Journey

For personaliSed consultation on the Austria Golden Visa Program, including investment evaluation, application strategy, and comprehensive process management, contact our specialist immigration advisors for detailed assessment and guidance or fill in the eligibility form below.

FAQs

What is the minimum investment required for Austrian citizenship?

The minimum investment typically ranges from EUR 2 million to EUR 10 million, depending on the investment category and economic impact. The exact amount is determined case-by-case by Austrian authorities.

How long does the Austrian citizenship application process take?

The complete process typically takes 24-36 months from initial application to citizenship grant, depending on investment complexity and government processing times.

Can I maintain my current citizenship alongside Austrian citizenship?

No, Austria does not recognize dual citizenship. All applicants and family members must renounce their current citizenship upon receiving Austrian citizenship.

How many applications are accepted each year?

Austria maintains a strict annual quota of maximum 300 applications, making this one of the most exclusive citizenship programs globally.

Do I need to speak German to qualify?

Yes, A1 level German language proficiency is required for the main applicant. Family members may also need to demonstrate basic German skills.

Can I include my parents in the application?

The Austrian program typically covers spouse and dependent children under 21. Parents are generally not eligible for inclusion in citizenship applications.

What happens if my application is rejected?

Citizenship approval is at the sole discretion of the Austrian government. Applications cannot be guaranteed, and investment funds may not be recoverable in case of rejection.

Do I need to live in Austria permanently?

Yes, establishing and maintaining residence in Austria is a mandatory requirement for citizenship eligibility and must be demonstrated throughout the application process.