As of 2023, the Austrian passport holds the fourth position globally in terms of the number of countries accessible for its holders without a visa. This impressive count extends to over 190 destinations, encompassing all European Union nations, the United Kingdom, Japan, the United States, and Hong Kong. However, this is merely one of the compelling factors that render Austrian citizenship attractive to foreigners. The nation's economic stability, exemplary healthcare and education systems, ample job prospects, safety measures, and the allure of its rich history and breathtaking natural landscapes contribute to the growing interest in acquiring Austrian citizenship.
How to become a citizen of Austria? You can do it through investments, through marriage to an Austrian citizen, by birthright, and through naturalisation. Regardless of the route chosen for obtaining an Austrian passport, all applicants are required to fulfil a predetermined set of conditions. These include the absence of criminal convictions, ongoing legal proceedings (both within Austria and abroad), as well as significant administrative offences. Additionally, applicants must furnish proof of a stable and adequate income.
In this article, we will explore the main methods of obtaining Austrian citizenship and compare them.
Obtaining Citizenship Through Investment
At present, Austria stands as one of the rare Western European countries where an investor can secure citizenship without mandatory residency within its borders. Within this category, there exist two investment pathways through which one can pursue Austrian citizenship:
An investment of at least €3,000,000 in industry or business of Austria. The applicant has the option to either initiate their own business venture or invest in an established enterprise. Regardless of the chosen path, the business must contribute to job creation within the country or facilitate export sales. It's important to note that significant direct investments are crucial – passive investments, such as government bonds or real estate acquisitions, are not considered qualifying factors. Furthermore, the investor is entitled to receive income from their investments.
An investment of at least €3,000,000 in the development of Austria's culture, sports, or education, or investment in a state development fund. In this case, the applicant cannot recover part of the invested funds (through earnings from investment or any other means).
Acquiring citizenship through investment presents notable advantages. The applicant is not required to maintain permanent residency in Austria or demonstrate proficiency in the German language at the B2 level.
The law mandates that applicants for Austrian citizenship renounce their existing citizenship. However, when acquiring citizenship through investment, compliance with this requirement is not necessary, allowing for dual citizenship.
This avenue to obtain an Austrian passport falls outside the scope of the immigration program. However, Article 10 of the Austrian Citizenship Act confers upon the government the authority to confer citizenship upon individuals who have made substantial contributions to the country's advancement. Under this law, citizenship can be acquired through significant direct investments, but the ultimate decision rests with the Austrian government.
Vienna, Austria. Photo: Jacek Dylag (Unsplash)
Obtaining Citizenship Through Marriage to an Austrian Citizen
Austrian citizenship law stipulates that the applicant must have maintained legal residency within the country for a minimum of six years. It is not imperative for the marriage to span the entire duration of this period. For example, a combination of four years of legal residency based on different grounds (such as work or study) along with two years of marriage will suffice. If the spouse has also obtained Austrian citizenship (not through birthright), the duration extends to 10 years.
Furthermore, the marriage ceremony must occur within the country's borders at authorised institutions. Subsequent to the marriage, the applicant initially secures a residence permit. Only after this timeframe has transpired are they eligible to initiate the citizenship application process. To do so, it is imperative to exhibit not only a proficient command of the German language and Austrian culture but also an ongoing shared residence with the spouse.
Obtaining Citizenship by Birthright
If the child's mother holds Austrian citizenship, the child is automatically granted Austrian citizenship. The same principle applies if the child's parents are legally married, but only the father possesses Austrian citizenship.
If the parents are not married, and only the father is an Austrian citizen, the child can obtain Austrian citizenship if the father acknowledges paternity within eight weeks or if paternity is established through a legal court process. After this period, children can be granted Austrian citizenship through a simplified procedure.
If a child is entitled to dual citizenship after birth (through the mother's and father's lineage), Austria allows them to hold dual citizenship until they reach adulthood.
Obtaining Citizenship through Naturalisation
The individual seeking citizenship under this category must maintain legal residency in Austria for a minimum of 10 years: the initial five years with a temporary residence permit, followed by the subsequent five years with a permanent residence permit. Nonetheless, the standard residency period required for naturalisation typically extends to approximately 30 years. The following applicants are eligible for expedited citizenship acquisition:
- Those who have made a significant contribution to the development of the country's economy, science, arts, or sports. For instance, outstanding athletes or successful businessmen with a thriving company in Austria would fall under this category.
- Those who are citizens of the European Economic Area, which also includes Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
- Those who have demonstrated a high degree of integration into society through language proficiency, participation in public events, and involvement in organisations.
Vienna, Austria. Photo: Pierre Blaché (Unsplash)
In a Nutshell
The quickest and simplest way for a foreigner to obtain Austrian citizenship is through direct investments in the country's development. However, this method also comes with risks as it is not regulated by an immigration programme but rather by the Austrian government, which reviews each case individually.
Hallstatt, Austria. Cover photo: Sorasak (Unsplash)
