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FlashAustriaSeptember 24, 2026

Austria Issued 45,500 First-Time Residence Permits in 2025: Family, Study, Work Lead

PublishedEditorial policy

In 2025, Austria granted approximately 45,500 initial residence permits to non-EU citizens. The top three routes were family reunification, student permits, and skilled worker visas, reflecting key pathways for international applicants.

Austria immigrationResidence Permit AustriaFamily Reunification AustriaStudy in AustriaSkilled Worker Austria

Key takeaways

  • Austria issued 45,500 first-time residence permits to non-EU citizens in 2025, indicating significant demand for residency.
  • Family reunification was the most common route, often facilitated by existing family ties in Austria.
  • Student and skilled worker permits were the second and third most popular, offering pathways for post-study stay, permit extensions, or eventual permanent residency.
  • The most suitable residence route depends on individual circumstances, such as having a family member in Austria, university acceptance, or a job contract.

Austria's Top Residence Permit Routes for Non-EU Citizens in 2025

In 2025, Austria issued approximately 45,500 first-time residence permits to citizens from non-EU countries. This figure highlights the most active pathways for international applicants seeking to live in Austria.

The leading routes, in order of volume, were family reunification (Familiennachzug), student permits, and residence permits for skilled workers (Fachkräfte-Visa). Each pathway has distinct requirements, processing times, and documentation.

For family reunification, applicants typically need a resident sponsor in Austria. Student applicants must secure admission to an Austrian university. Skilled workers require a job contract and a salary exceeding a specified threshold.

Choosing the right route depends on your current circumstances. If you have a relative already residing in Austria, the family track may be suitable. University admission points towards a student permit, while a job offer from an Austrian employer aligns with a skilled worker visa. Each path also has different conditions for extension and potential transition to permanent residency.

Sources

Based on Emigro corridor reporting. Primary links below.

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