Austria Visa for Indians - Complete 2025 Guide

Austria’s stunning Alpine scenery, along with its historic cities like Vienna and Salzburg, make it a captivating center of travel in Europe for Indians. Whether it’s a short trip, a business visit, advanced studies, or work, the first and foremost thing is to understand the process for obtaining the Austria visa for Indians. This guide contains up-to-date information on types of visas, eligibility, application process, fees, and tips to improve the likelihood of approval.

1. Do Indians Need a Visa for Austria?

In Austria’s visa-exempt list, India is not included. Hence, Indian citizens needing to travel to Austria must apply for a visa. Austria is a part of the Schengen area, thus India does not require a separate visa for other Schengen countries. Short-stay visas issued by Austria permit holders to travel to other Schengen countries for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.

2. Why Visit Austria?

Austria is a must-visit for those who enjoy nature and diverse cultures. Some of the primary purposes for Indian citizens to apply for an Austria visa are:

• Tourism – Visit the imperial and other famous palaces in Vienna, baroque architecture in Salzburg, and ski resorts in Tyrol.
• Business – Attend meetings, conferences, or venture into business deals in Central Europe.
• Education – Attend one of Austria’s top universities.
• Work – Obtain employment in one of Austria’s emerging sectors.
• Family Visit – Visit relatives or friends residing in Austria.

3. Types of Austria Visa for Indians

Different categories of visas are available based on the purpose of travel and the duration of the stay.

1. Austria Visa for Tourism (Schengen Visa – Type C Short Stay Visa)

• For leisure travel, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.
• A stay of no longer than 90 days is permitted.
• Most Indians apply for it as an Austria tourist visa.

1. Business Visa

• For participation in meetings, trade shows, and business discussions.
• Valid for a maximum of 90 days.

1. Visa for Students

• For a duration longer than 90 days.
• Usually issued with a residence permit.

1. Work Visa / Austria National Visa (Type D)

• For those seeking long-term employment in Austria.
• Residence is permitted for longer than 90 days.
• Usually issued with a work permit or Red-White-Red Card.

1. Visa for Family Reunion

• For joining a family member residing in Austria.

4. Austria Tourist Visa for Indian Citizens – Main Prerequisites

To obtain a tourist visa for Austria, Indian nationals need:

• Passport – Two blank pages, valid for 3 months beyond the return date.
• Visa Application Form – Completed and signed.
• Photographs – Recent passport-sized photos as per Schengen standards.
• Travel Itinerary – Flight bookings, hotel reservations, or invitation letter from host.
• Proof of Funds – Bank statements for the past 3–6 months with sufficient balance.
• Travel Insurance – Minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies.
• Cover Letter – Purpose of visit and travel plan.
• Proof of Visa Fee Payment.

5. Austria Visa for Indians – Eligibility Conditions

Applicants must meet these essential criteria:

• Purpose of Travel – Supported by relevant documents.
• Financial Stability – Sufficient funds for the stay.
• Ties to India – Employment, family, or property ensuring return after the trip.
• Clean Immigration Record – No previous Schengen violations.
• Accurate Documentation – Truthful and verifiable information.

6. Austria Visa Application for Indians – Step-by-Step Guide

1. Select Visa Type – Tourist, business, student, work, or family reunification.
2. Book an Appointment – At VFS offices or Austrian Embassy, New Delhi.
3. Prepare Documents – Based on the visa type.
4. Biometrics & Photo – Taken at the application center.
5. Pay Visa Fee – In INR at the applicable exchange rate.
6. Processing Time – 15 working days for short-stay visas; 8 weeks for long-stay.
7. Collect Documents – In person or via courier.

7. Austria Visa Fees for Indians (2025)

• Short-stay Schengen Visa (Tourist/Business) – €80 (~₹7,200–₹7,500)
• Long-stay Type D Visa – €150 (~₹13,500–₹14,000)
• Children 6–12 Years – €40 (~₹3,600–₹3,800)
• Service Charge – ₹1,200–₹1,500

Note: Fees may change at the time of payment.

8. Processing Time

• Tourist/Short-Stay Visa – 10–15 working days.
• Long-Stay Work/Student Visa – 6–8 weeks or more.
  Apply at least one month in advance to avoid delays.

9. Tips for a Successful Austria Visa Application

• Submit all documents with accurate details.
• Ensure travel insurance meets Schengen requirements.
• Show strong ties to India (property, job letter).
• Be truthful during the interview.

10. Can You Travel to Other Schengen Countries with an Austria Visa?

Yes. Holders can travel to any Schengen member state for up to 90 days in a 180-day period, provided Austria is the main destination.

11. Living and Working in Austria

• Apply for a Type D Visa or Red-White-Red Card for employment.
• High-demand sectors include IT, healthcare, hospitality, engineering, and manufacturing.
• Average salaries range between €1,500–€3,500 per month.

12. Austria Tourist Visa vs Austria Work Visa