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Golden Visa Partners

2026 Program Guide

Austria Retirement Visa

Austria offers a residence permit for persons not engaged in gainful employment for retirees with passive income, requiring roughly EUR 23,199 per year. As the quota is limited, applying early is important; it offers a high quality of life at the heart of Europe.

Last updated: 2026-07-07 · Reviewed by: Burak Ünal

At a glance

Program
Residence Permit Excepted from Gainful Employment
Passive income
~EUR 23,199/year
Work
Not permitted
Language
A1 German
Quota
Limited each year

Who is it for?

  • Retirees seeking to live at the heart of Europe on passive income (~EUR 23,199/year).
  • Those ready to learn A1 German and apply early.
  • Those prioritizing high quality of life and a quality healthcare system.
  • Those seeking a patient, long-term path to permanent residence.

Quota-Limited and German Language Requirement

Austria offers a residence permit for persons not engaged in gainful employment for retirees with passive income, requiring roughly EUR 23,199 per year and A1-level German. Since permits are issued under a limited annual quota and can fill up quickly, applying early is critical. Work is not permitted.

Path to Permanent Residence

Austria offers a high quality of life, security, and a strong healthcare system at the heart of Europe. Permanent residence can generally be obtained after five years of legal residence. Family members can also be included in the application; income and requirements are assessed separately for each.

Benefits

  • High quality of life at the heart of Europe.
  • Access to the Schengen area.
  • Peaceful living on passive income.
  • Path to permanent residence, with family included.

Requirements

  • ~EUR 23,199/year in passive income.
  • A1-level German.
  • Health insurance and quota availability.

Costs

Proof of income
~EUR 23,199/year
Fees
Additional fees apply

FAQ

Why does the quota matter?
Since permits are issued in limited numbers each year, the quota can fill up quickly; applying early is important.
Is German required?
Yes, A1-level German is required initially.
Can I work?
No. This permit does not permit gainful activity; you are expected to support yourself with passive income.
When can I move to permanent residence?
Permanent residence can generally be applied for after five years of continuous legal residence.

Sources

Disclaimer: Golden Visa Partners is an investment and immigration advisory firm; it does not provide legal or attorney services. The investment amounts, timelines and program conditions on this page are for general guidance only and, because regulations change quickly, may be out of date. Before making any decision, we recommend consulting current official sources and obtaining independent legal and financial advice.

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