Austria
General visa requirements for travelling to Austria. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.
Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.
Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Processing time
- Expedited, typically days to 2 weeks
- Fee
- None
- Validity
- Duration of diplomatic assignment or official visit
- Entry
- Single entry
For holders of diplomatic and service/official passports traveling on official government business. Facilitated visa procedures apply. A Note Verbale from the sending country's mission is required stating the purpose of the trip, cost coverage, and travel insurance. Diplomatic staff accredited to international organizations in Austria (UN Vienna, OSCE, etc.) receive separate accreditation through the Federal Ministry of European and International Affairs (BMEIA). Many countries have bilateral visa-exemption agreements for diplomatic passport holders. Diplomatic passport holders from a large number of countries can enter Austria visa-free for short stays.
Eligibility
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Nationality
Holders of valid diplomatic or service/official passports traveling on official government business or to take up a diplomatic posting.
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Purpose of visit
Must be traveling for official diplomatic, governmental, or international organization purposes.
Documents you need
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
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Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
How to apply
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Document gathering
Prepare diplomatic passport, Note Verbale, and any required supporting documents.
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Document submission
Submit application through diplomatic channels (embassy to embassy) or directly at the Austrian embassy.
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Processing wait
Expedited processing, typically a few days to 2 weeks.
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Visa collection
Collect visa or confirmation of visa-free entry clearance.