FAQ
Common questions.
How much income do I need for the Austria retirement visa?
At least EUR 2,616.78 a month in 2026 after regular costs such as rent. This equals twice the general standard rate of EUR 1,308.39 for a single person. A married couple needs EUR 4,128.24, and each child adds EUR 403.76. Pensions, income from assets and savings can count.
Is there an age limit for the Austria retirement visa?
The official page sets no age limit.
What do I need for the Austria retirement visa?
The official page asks for: proof of pension or your own assets, health insurance that covers all risks, proof of a home, such as a lease or title, proof of German at A1 level, valid passport and photo and criminal record extract if asked.
Do I need health insurance?
Health insurance that covers all risks and pays out in Austria.
Can I work on the Austria retirement visa?
The permit is for people who settle in Austria without working.
How long do I need to spend in Austria?
The official pages do not set a minimum number of days in Austria for this permit.
Does the Austria retirement visa lead to permanent residence?
After 5 years of unbroken settlement you can apply for long-term residence (Daueraufenthalt EU). You must also have completed Module 2 of the Integration Agreement.
How long does the Austria retirement visa last?
Settlement permits are issued for 1 year. Yes. It can be issued for 3 years once you have completed Module 1 of the Integration Agreement and lived in Austria for the last 2 years.
How much does the Austria retirement visa cost?
EUR 218 application fee.
Who can apply for the Austria retirement visa?
Open to people from outside the EU, the EEA and Switzerland. People from outside the EU, EEA and Switzerland who want to settle in Austria without working, such as pensioners and people who live on their own money.
Can I bring my family?
A spouse, partner and children can get the same permit, which may also need a quota place.
How do I apply?
In person at an Austrian embassy or consulate before you enter Austria. The settlement authority for the place where you will live makes the decision. The official page gives no set time. It depends partly on whether your documents are complete.
Sources
- Austria: Settlement permit, gainful employment excepted (Niederlassungsbewilligung, ausgenommen Erwerbstätigkeit) (oesterreich.gv.at)
- Austria: Settlement permit, gainful employment excepted (Niederlassungsbewilligung, ausgenommen Erwerbstätigkeit) (migration.gv.at)
- Austria: Settlement permit, gainful employment excepted (Niederlassungsbewilligung, ausgenommen Erwerbstätigkeit) (bmi.gv.at)
General information, not legal advice. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.