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Austria is one of the most stable and developed countries in Europe, consistently ranking among the top ten in global living standards. Its capital, Vienna, is known for high quality of life, cultural heritage, and strong economy. For investors, Austrian citizenship represents prestige, freedom of movement across the EU and the world, and access to a secure banking system and transparent business environment.


Unlike the Caribbean or Balkan programs, Austria does not offer “standard” citizenship by investment. Instead, citizenship is granted under Article 10, Paragraph 6 of the Austrian Citizenship Act, which allows the government to naturalize individuals who have rendered extraordinary services to the Republic. One of the qualifying grounds for such a decision is significant contribution to the national economy through large-scale investments.

Legal Framework for Obtaining Austria Citizenship by Investment

Austrian citizenship law (Staatsbürgerschaftsgesetz 1985, Article 10(6)) provides that the government may grant citizenship to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the Republic. This article serves as the legal foundation for economic naturalization.


Austrian citizenship by investment is not an open public program but an individual government decision reserved for investors making a major economic impact. Typical investments start from €3 million (for direct business participation) or from €10 million (for industrial or infrastructural projects). Successful applicants receive full Austrian citizenship and an EU passport for themselves and their family members.


Each application is reviewed by the Ministry of the Interior and approved by the Federal Government. The procedure is confidential; applicant information is not published or disclosed. Applicants must prove the lawful origin of funds and pass a full compliance and due diligence review. The decision to grant citizenship is discretionary but fully legal and binding once issued.


Investment must demonstrate a direct, measurable benefit to Austria’s economy — such as job creation, technology transfer, export growth, or the opening of new production facilities. Passive investments (real estate purchases, securities, or donations) do not qualify. Only active, long-term economic involvement in Austrian enterprises is eligible.

Benefits of Austria Citizenship by Investment

  • Full EU citizenship
    Austrian citizens are automatically citizens of the European Union, enjoying the right to reside, work, and study anywhere in the EU, as well as to access the EU’s common healthcare and education systems.
  • Global mobility
    The Austrian passport ranks among the world’s most powerful. Citizens can travel visa-free to more than 190 countries, including the entire European Union, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, and Singapore.
  • Prestige and reliability
    Austrian citizenship is a symbol of trust and reputation. The country is politically neutral, economically stable, and highly respected internationally. Holding an Austrian passport opens the doors to the world’s leading financial institutions and business hubs.

    Unlike public investment programs, the Austrian process is completely confidential — applicants’ identities are never disclosed, and all government decisions are internal.
  • Tax and financial benefits
    Austria has a favorable tax system for international investors. Income earned outside Austria is not subject to double taxation thanks to a wide network of bilateral tax treaties. Corporate tax is 24%, with many deductions available for business expenses and R&D activities.
  • Family inclusion
    Citizenship may be extended to the investor’s spouse and minor children. Adult dependents can be considered individually if financial dependency is proven.
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How to obtain Austria Citizenship by Investment:
Step-by-Step Guide

Preliminary consultation and evaluation
An investor interested in Austrian citizenship engages a legal advisor to assess eligibility.

A detailed profile is prepared, and the scale and nature of the potential investment are defined. The government only considers applications backed by significant, tangible economic benefit.
Preparation of the investment proposal
The investor prepares a formal proposal describing the project, financial projections, and benefits to the Austrian economy (e.g., job creation, export potential, innovation).

The proposal is submitted with a business plan and financial documentation confirming the availability and legality of funds.
Submission and initial review
The completed application is submitted to the Ministry of the Interior through a licensed attorney. Supporting documents include proof of identity, financial statements, police clearance, and investment details.

The Ministry reviews the application for completeness and may request additional evidence.
Due diligence and government assessment
Comprehensive due diligence is conducted. The Ministry verifies personal, financial, and business backgrounds and consults relevant authorities (tax, economic, and security agencies).

Once the investment is verified and deemed beneficial to Austria, the file is forwarded to the Federal Government.
Government approval and investment execution
Upon approval, the investor finalizes the investment (equity participation, acquisition, or contribution).

The Federal Government then issues a decree granting Austrian citizenship under Article 10(6).
Naturalization and passport issuance
After the decree, the investor and family receive naturalization certificates and can apply for Austrian passports. Processing of documents takes only a few weeks. Citizenship is lifelong and inheritable.

FAQs about Austria Citizenship by Investment