Settlement permit – gainful employment excepted
Who it's for: People from outside the EU who want to live in Austria without working and can support themselves.
Information, not immigration advice. This page summarises what the government publishes. Confirm every figure on the official page before you pay or apply.
Last checked 3 Nov 2026
Requirements at a glance
- Language: German language skills at A1 level (Austrian Language Diploma, Goethe-Institut, Telc, Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF)) · about CEFR A1
- Main fee: €218
- Can lead to permanent residence: Possible
Figures and costs
| Item | Amount | In your currency | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main fee | €218 | — | migration.gv.atOfficial · 3 Nov 2026 |
Figures marked check could not be confirmed on a live official page, or come from a secondary source.
What the official pages say
3 points recorded from official pages. Open a point to see the official wording.
LanguageGerman language skills at A1 level (Austrian Language Diploma, Goethe-Institut, Telc, Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF)) · about CEFR A1Official wording
“Third-country nationals have to provide evidence of German language skills at A1 level according to the”
Main fee€218Official wording
“Application fee: € 218”
Can lead to permanent residencePossibleOfficial wording
“After five years of lawful residence without interruption, a residence title”
We have not yet recorded: Job offer needed; Study place needed; Minimum education; Work experience; Age limit; Money to show; Salary threshold; Family can join; Decision time; Occupation list. That does not mean there is no rule — confirm on the official page. Official page.
Other visit routes in Austria
All visa types in Austria
Every visa type we have listed, grouped by purpose, with links to the official pages.
Austria visa typesBefore you pay anyone
- Nobody can guarantee a visa. Only the government of the country you apply to decides.
- UK employers must not charge you for a Certificate of Sponsorship.
- German missions say you don't need an agent to get a visa appointment.
- Check any adviser or recruitment agent on an official register before you pay.