fbpx
Loading...
Strictly Necessary Cookies

These cookies are required to enable core site functionality.

Yes
Functionality Cookies

Functionality cookies allow us to provide enhanced and more personalized content and features. In order to permit your connection our website, our servers receive and record information about your computer and browser, potentially including your IP address, browser type, and other software or hardware information. All of these features help us to improve your visit and assist in navigation of the sites’ features.

Analytics Cookies

We and our service providers may use analytics cookies, which are sometimes called performance cookies, to collect information about your use of our website, for instance, which pages you go to most. The information allows us to see the overall patterns of usage, help us record any difficulties users may have while using our website and can show us whether or not our advertising is effective.

Advertising And Targeting Cookies

We may use third party advertising and targeting cookies to correlate your use of our website to personal information obtained about you so that we may more clearly target the information we provide you to the specific items we think you will find interesting, based on your prior online activities and preferences. We also may use these cookies to deliver ads that we believe are relevant to you and your interests.

Project Expat
  • Project Expat
  • Jul 20, 2023

The 5 Best Expat Cities in Austria

Are you considering a move to Austria? We are sharing the five best expat cities in Austria along with the latest updates in terms of immigration requirements and timelines.

Dreaming of experiencing the picturesque landscapes, rich culture, and high quality of life? We’re here to guide you through the immigration process and help you discover the best places for expats in the country.

№1. Innsbruck (Tyrol)

Nestled in the heart of Tyrol, Innsbruck captures the essence of Austria’s natural beauty and charm. But what sets this city apart is its efficient immigration offices, renowned for their streamlined processes, excellent communication, and relatively short processing times. If you’re worried about the bureaucracy involved in obtaining your immigration documents, fear not! In Innsbruck, appointments are granted with impressive swiftness, usually within 1-2 days of reaching out to schedule one. Once you’ve filed your application, the processing times typically range from 4 to 8 weeks, ensuring you’ll be ready to embark on your Austrian adventure in no time.

Innsbruck Austria City View
Schwaz Austria view from the mountain

№2. Schwaz (Tyrol)

Another gem in Tyrol, Schwaz boasts not only breathtaking scenery but also immigration offices that prioritize efficiency, open communication, and prompt updates on your case status. Much like Innsbruck, you’ll find it easy to engage directly with the officers at the immigration authority, giving you peace of mind throughout the application process. With processing times aligning closely with those in Innsbruck—around 4 to 8 weeks—you’ll soon be savoring the tranquil beauty of Schwaz, knowing that your paperwork is in good hands.

№2. Schwaz (Tyrol)

Another gem in Tyrol, Schwaz boasts not only breathtaking scenery but also immigration offices that prioritize efficiency, open communication, and prompt updates on your case status. Much like Innsbruck, you’ll find it easy to engage directly with the officers at the immigration authority, giving you peace of mind throughout the application process. With processing times aligning closely with those in Innsbruck—around 4 to 8 weeks—you’ll soon be savoring the tranquil beauty of Schwaz, knowing that your paperwork is in good hands.

Schwaz Austria view from the mountain

№3. Graz (Styria)

Graz, the capital of Styria, has witnessed a remarkable transformation in its immigration authority over the past few years. Today, it stands as one of the most efficient places to file residence permit applications in Austria. With processing times averaging between 5 and 7 weeks, the authorities in Graz understand the importance of timely decision-making.

However, it’s worth noting that there is one potential drawback for candidates wishing to relocate with dependents. Dependent permits in Graz are typically approved only after the principal applicant’s application has been processed and the principal has commenced work in Austria. This is important to know for anyone planning to relocate with their family.

Graz Austria sunrise view over the city
Vöcklabruck Austria view of the church tower in spring

№4. Vöcklabruck (Upper Austria) 

If you’re seeking a more intimate expat experience, Vöcklabruck in Upper Austria might be your ideal destination. With immigration authorities handling a lower caseload compared to larger cities, they can devote more attention to each application, ensuring efficient and timely processing. Furthermore, the direct contact you can establish with the caseworker at the immigration authority is a significant advantage, allowing for quick and effective communication.

Expect your application to be processed relatively swiftly, usually within 4 to 8 weeks, meaning you’ll soon be embracing the warm hospitality and serene beauty of Vöcklabruck.

№4. Vöcklabruck (Upper Austria) 

If you’re seeking a more intimate expat experience, Vöcklabruck in Upper Austria might be your ideal destination. With immigration authorities handling a lower caseload compared to larger cities, they can devote more attention to each application, ensuring efficient and timely processing. Furthermore, the direct contact you can establish with the caseworker at the immigration authority is a significant advantage, allowing for quick and effective communication.

Expect your application to be processed relatively swiftly, usually within 4 to 8 weeks, meaning you’ll soon be embracing the warm hospitality and serene beauty of Vöcklabruck.

Vöcklabruck Austria view of the church tower in spring

№5. Vienna

Vienna, the vibrant capital of Austria, has long been renowned for its cultural offerings and historical significance. However, when it came to immigration processes, it fell behind other cities due to its previously notorious long processing times.

Vienna view of a city square and a horse-drawn carriage

The immigration authority in Vienna has taken significant steps to address these concerns, striving to upgrade its image and improve its efficiency. While not yet achieving the remarkable processing times of its counterparts, Vienna has made impressive strides, making the application process faster and more accessible. With processing times now ranging from 8 to 12 weeks, it won’t be long before Vienna earns a spot among the top four cities for expats in Austria.

№5. Vienna

Vienna, the vibrant capital of Austria, has long been renowned for its cultural offerings and historical significance. However, when it came to immigration processes, it fell behind other cities due to its previously notorious long processing times.

The immigration authority in Vienna has taken significant steps to address these concerns, striving to upgrade its image and improve its efficiency. While not yet achieving the remarkable processing times of its counterparts, Vienna has made impressive strides, making the application process faster and more accessible. With processing times now ranging from 8 to 12 weeks, it won’t be long before Vienna earns a spot among the top four cities for expats in Austria.

Vienna view of a city square and a horse-drawn carriage

With this overview of the best expat cities in Austria, you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions and start your immigration journey with confidence.

Innsbruck and Schwaz offer seamless processes, scenic splendor, and efficient communication, making them ideal choices for those craving an alpine paradise. Graz presents abundant opportunities for growth, though the dependent permit procedure may require additional consideration. If you desire a more intimate experience, Vöcklabruck’s personal touch and prompt processing times will not disappoint. Finally, Vienna, the cultural powerhouse, has made significant strides in streamlining its immigration procedures, promising a brighter future for expats seeking to call this majestic city their home.

Embrace the beauty, embrace the opportunities, and embark on your Austrian adventure! The best expat cities in Austria are waiting to welcome you with open arms.

Fragomen offers English-speaking Immigration Law services. They are the largest exclusive immigration and visa service provider in the world. With a team of German and English-speaking experts, as well as an additional 19 language capabilities, they are ready to serve clients from all backgrounds and nationalities. Whether you are driven by lifestyle reasons or looking for new opportunities, Fragomen is here to provide comprehensive solutions and a smooth immigration experience for you and your family throughout the world’s 170 countries.