Home > Do I Need ETIAS for Austria? A Complete Guide for Travelers
If you’re planning a trip to Austria and wondering whether you need ETIAS authorization, you’re not alone.
Austria, tucked into the heart of Europe, is a top destination for travelers seeking a mix of historical charm, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture.
However, with recent updates to European travel requirements, understanding what you need and what you don’t can be a bit convoluted. We’re here to help.
This article will guide you through everything you need to know about ETIAS and how it applies to your upcoming visit to Vienna, Salzburg, or wherever you’re off to in this stunning country!
Starting in 2026, if you are from a visa-exempt country and do not hold a current Schengen visa, you will need ETIAS to visit Austria.
Citizens from the US, UK, Australia, Japan, Canada, and others will need to apply for authorization (ETIAS) before visiting any country in the Schengen area, which Austria is.
It is important to note: that if you’re from a visa-exempt country (such as any of the countries listed above) and are planning a trip to Austria that exceeds 90 days, you need to apply for an Austrian visa, not ETIAS.
ETIAS is only for short trips for leisure or business and is not a substitute for a visa.
If you hold a valid Austria visa you do not need to apply for ETIAS.
When it comes to the Schengen area, it’s an “either/or” situation. You need either a Schengen visa/passport OR ETIAS approval.
Applying for an ETIAS for your trip to Austria should only take 10-20 minutes and can be done entirely online. You’ll need your passport number and a valid debit or credit card.
Just follow a few simple steps:
Your ETIAS is valid for up to three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
If your ETIAS is denied, you’ll receive an official email outlining the reason(s). In this email, you’ll also be given instructions on how to appeal the decision if you believe it was unfairly made. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to travel to Austria without ETIAS approval.
According to the EU website, a valid ETIAS does permit you to travel throughout the Schengen area and Cyprus.
With that being said, it does not guarantee entry. Border guards can still deny you entry.