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Discover in detail the advantages of each EU country.

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Austria

High living standards, strong worker protections, and balanced lifestyle with excellent public services and safety.

Austria

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Corporate Tax Rate 23% (2025)

The standard rate for all business profits.

With a competitive corporate tax framework, it offers a stable and attractive fiscal environment designed to support and encourage business growth.

Business

Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI) 94,8 (2026)

A snapshot of business and consumer confidence.

The Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI) measures overall confidence in the economy by combining survey results from consumers and key sectors such as industry, services, retail, construction, and (where available) financial services.

Business

GDP Growth 0,3% (2025)

Annual real GDP growth rate forecast.

Austria's highly advanced and resilient economy is forecast to grow steadily, driven by innovation in technology and a strong commitment to sustainable industry.

Business

Labour Cost €44,5/hr (2024)

Average hourly cost of employing a worker.

Labour costs represent an investment in a highly educated, productive, and innovative workforce, contributing to a strong, high-value economy.

Business

SNS#1: Fast Startup Creation Score 62% (2025)

Efficiency of starting a business and administrative support.

With a strong focus on supporting entrepreneurs, many countries offer an efficient and streamlined process for launching a new business and entering a dynamic startup ecosystem.

Business

SNS#6: Access to Finance Score 44% (2025)

Availability of public and private funding for startups.

It provides startups with strong access to a deep and diverse pool of venture capital and other funding opportunities.

Business

Annual Inflation Rate 3,6% (2025)

Measures the change in consumer prices over time.

With one of the lowest inflation rates, the economy provides strong price stability, ensuring a secure and predictable financial environment.

Work & Living

Euro Health Consumer Index Score 9th (2026)

Overall measure of national health system performance.

It offers a world-class healthcare system recognized for its excellent access, high quality of care, and strong patient outcomes.

Work & Living

Global Cost of Living Rank 19th (2026)

Measures relative costs of goods and services.

 This financial strength, paired with top-ranked quality of life and free public transport, creates a highly attractive environment for residents.

Work & Living

Global Happiness Rank 17th (2024)

Evaluates national wellbeing and overall life satisfaction. 

Ranking among the happiest nations, it demonstrates high levels of life satisfaction driven by economic stability, strong social support systems, and a diverse, multicultural environment.

Work & Living

Global Peace Index 4th (2025)

Assesses national peacefulness, safety, and security levels.

Renowned for its political stability and low crime rates, it is considered among the most secure countries, offering a safe and peaceful environment for residents and businesses alike.

Work & Living

SNS#8: Digital First Score 48% (2025)

Measures the digital-by-default availability of key public services.

Offering comprehensive online services that enhance efficiency and accessibility for a diverse and international population.

Work & Living

Top Personal Income Tax Rate 55% (2025)

Progressive personal income tax rates apply

A top personal income tax rate reflects the upper threshold of individual taxation, indicating the level of contribution required from high earners within the broader fiscal system.

Work & Living

Working-Age Employment Rate 77,4% (2024)

Percentage of population aged 20-64 that is employed.

With a robust employment rate supported by strong financial and service sectors, the international labour market offers extensive opportunities.

Work & Living

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Entry for Non-EU Citizens

Non-EU citizens must present a valid passport and, depending on their nationality, a visa. Short stays require a Schengen visa, while a national visa is necessary for stays longer than 90 days.

Entry for EU Citizens

EU citizens can enter Austria with a valid passport or ID card. For stays exceeding three months, registration with local authorities is required, along with proof of employment, sufficient resources, or student status.

Start-up Founders

As a third-country national you can apply for a Red-White-Red Card for start-up founders if you establish a company in order to develop and launch on the market innovative products, services, processing methods or technologies and other requirements.

Embassies and Consulates of Austria

Austria's diplomatic missions abroad offer a range of services to foreigners and Austrian citizens. A complete directory can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs.

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