Austrian citizenship by investment in the economy
Since 1985, the country has allowed citizenship for significant investments in the local economy. The starting amount of the investment is €10 million, which makes the programme one of the most expensive in the world. However, it also offers many benefits.
The citizenship allows you to move freely across Schengen borders and live in any EU country, giving you access to one of the most stable and developed labour and business markets in the world.
The country is an ideal option for those looking for new entrepreneurial opportunities and a comfortable place to live with a rich culture and history. A local passport is not only a prestigious status, but also a long-term investment in the future.
Conditions for getting Austrian citizenship
To participate in the programme, foreigners must:
- have no criminal record;
- prove the legitimacy of the source of funds;
- invest €10 million in the economy.
In addition, applicants must prove that their investment will yield economic advantages for the country and create additional jobs.
Austrian citizenship: requirements
The package of papers required includes:
- Valid passport, original and copy.
- Applicant's application form and CV.
- Passport photos.
- Birth certificate, original and copy certified by a notary.
- Certificate of no criminal record with apostille.
- Proof of economic activity in Austria, including information about the founders and director of the company, registered office, articles of association, amount of the share capital.
- Letter of recommendation from business colleagues (e.g. lawyers or auditors).
- Contract of sale or lease of residential property (confirms the existence of a place of residence in the country).
- Bank statement and letter of recommendation.
- Health insurance.
Investment amount: from €10 million
In Austria, a passport can be obtained in an expedited procedure for business investments of €10 million or more. To obtain the status of a citizen in the usual manner, you must live in the country for 610 years, have a valid residence permit and prove knowledge of the German language at least B1 level (Mittelschulniveau). However, different rules apply to investors, details of which are summarised in the table below.
| | Standard procedure | For investors |
|---|
| Language |
Passing of the German language test is compulsory |
No exam |
| Compulsory residence |
Yes |
No |
| Family members |
A personalised processing procedure for each family member |
The investor's entire family |
| Issue dates |
6–10 years |
From 2 years |
Countries whose citizens can obtain citizenship in Austria
Citizenship can be obtained by residents of:
- The United Kingdom.
- Canada.
- The USA.
- Germany.
- Italy.
- Australia.
- Russia and other countries.
