Settlement Permit – Gainful Employment Excepted
Austria
Last updated: December 19, 2025
12 months
$141
3-6 months
High
About this Visa
This is a residence permit for people who do not need to work in Austria. It is for retirees and anyone with enough money to support themselves. You cannot work at any job or start a business while you have this permit. This permit lets you live in Austria permanently. You can bring your spouse and children with you. After 5 years, you can get permanent residency. After 10 years, you can become an Austrian citizen. The visa is still active and accepting applications in 2025.
Key Benefits
- Live in Austria permanently without a job
- Bring your spouse (age 21+) and unmarried children
- Travel freely in all Schengen countries
- Get permanent residency after 5 years
- Become an Austrian citizen after 10 years
- Own property in Austria
- Access Austrian healthcare with insurance
- Income from pensions, investments, or savings is enough
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must NOT be from EU, EEA, or Switzerland
- Must have required monthly income (€2,548+ single)
- Must speak German at A1 level (basic)
- Must pass police background check
- Must obtain health insurance covering everything
- Must have legal residence in Austria
- No age minimum or maximum
- No education requirement
- No work experience needed
Financial Requirement
Single: €2,548/month (~$2,983 USD/month). Married couple: €4,020/month (~$4,706 USD/month). Each child: €393/month (~$460 USD/month). Proof required: Bank statements, pension letters, investment statements, rental income proof, tax documents.
Documents
- Valid passportCurrent travel document
- Proof of financial meansBank statements, pension letters, investment account statements
- Health insurance proofCoverage that includes everything
- Rental or home ownership contractLegal residence in Austria
- German language certificate (A1 level)Must be less than 1 year old
- Police clearance certificateFrom home country, less than 3 months old, officially translated
- Birth certificateOfficially translated into German
- Marriage certificateIf applicable, officially translated
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.