Are you a Digital Nomad Moving to Vienna? Explore Your Visa Options 

When you can work from anywhere, why stay put? The rise of remote working has made globetrotting the norm, exploring new cities and cultures to find the right fit. When you’re ready for the next stop, Vienna is waiting for you. 

Vienna is one of the best European cities for remote workers to live in. It has excellent infrastructure, a welcoming international community and a unique blend of history with modern, digitalised urban living. 

Visas for Remote Workers Moving to Austria

Austria doesn’t offer a specific digital nomad visa. However, there are other visa options for remote workers and business owners looking to move to the country. The right one for you will depend on where you’re from and how long you’d like to stay.

EU Members

If you are an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen, you don’t need a visa for short-term stays (up to 90 days). EU members can live and work in Austria for up to three months without restrictions. 

Non-EU Members 

If you aren’t a citizen of one of the above states, or you’re looking to permanently live in Austria, you’ll need a visa. There are two main types to choose from:

A Schengen Visa for Austria

Austria is part of the Schengen Area, an EU passport-free zone of 27 European countries. A Schengen Visa allows you to travel to any of them for business or leisure. Your residence length is capped at 90 days per 180-day period, even if you visit more than once. 

A Schengen Visa is ideal for those looking to country-hop because it allows you to move freely between Schengen countries for the duration of the visa.

Not all countries require a Schengen Visa. However, from 2026, exempt countries will need to be approved for travel through the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). 

Schengen Visa Types

• Single Entry

With a single-entry visa, you qualify for one visit in 180 days. When you leave, you must reapply for another visa before staying again. 

• Double Entry

A double-entry visa allows you to enter the Schengen Area twice in 180 days.

• Multiple Entry

A multiple-entry visa lasts one, three or five years, depending on how often you travel. Multiple-entry visas allow you to freely come and go from the Schengen Area. Ensure that the time you spend there is within the 90-day limit per 180-day period.

The Red-White-Red Card 

You would apply for a Red-White-Red Card for long-term settlement in Austria. The visa allows you to live and work in Austria for up to two years. If things go well, an extra three-year extension is available.

Eligible Applicants: 

• Highly qualified workers

• Skilled workers in a shortage occupation

• Key workers

• Graduates from an Austrian university or college

• Tourism, agriculture or forestry workers

• Start-up founders

Applying for this visa is a longer process, typically taking up to six months. While the eligibility criteria differ between occupations, all applicants must be able to show they are qualified for their role and have proof of income or employment. They must also have health insurance for the duration of their stay.

ETIAS – Only for Visa-Exempt Countries

ETIAS is a visa waiver programme for anyone visiting the Schengen area from a visa-exempt country. From 2026, you will need to register and be approved for travel through ETIAS before your visit.

What is the Best Visa Type for a Digital Nomad Moving to Vienna?

Currently, the best visa for a digital nomad looking to work remotely from Vienna is the Schengen Visa. The Red-White-Red Card visa is only worthwhile if you want to start a business or settle permanently in Austria. 

Find Your New Home in Vienna with District Living 

Ready to step into the future of remote working? Enjoy comfortable, convenient, modern living from one of our fully equipped studios and one-bedroom apartments at District Living.  Contact our team about our vacant properties today.