Why does the quota matter?

The special settlement permit is granted in limited numbers each year; since the quota can fill quickly, early application is important.

Yes, A1 level German is required to begin.

No. This permit does not grant work rights; you are expected to support yourself with your passive income.

Can I include my family?

Yes. Spouse and dependent children can be included; the income threshold is higher for families.

When can I move to permanent residence and citizenship?

Generally permanent residence can be applied for after five years of legal residence; citizenship after a longer period (approximately 10 years) of residence and meeting requirements.

2026 Program Guide

Austria Golden Visa & Residence Permit

Austria offers a quota-limited 'special settlement' residence permit for those wishing to live without working. Sufficient passive income (approximately EUR 27,000 annually for a single person) and basic German (A1) are required; early application is important since the quota is limited. (Citizenship by investment is a separate and very high-cost route.)

Last updated: 2026-07-07 · Reviewed by: Burak Ünal

At a glance

Program: Special settlement permit (quota-limited)
Passive income: ~EUR 27,000/year (single), ~EUR 44,000 (couple)
Language: A1 German
Work: Not permitted
Quota: Limited each year

Who is it for?

Those wanting to live at the heart of Europe without working, using passive income.
Applicants ready to learn A1 German and able to apply early.
Families prioritizing high quality of life and stability.
Those seeking a patient, long-term path to permanent residence.

Quota-Limited Special Settlement Permit

Austria's special settlement permit (Niederlassungsbewilligung) is for those wishing to live without working. Sufficient passive income (approximately EUR 27,000 annually for a single person, approximately EUR 44,000 for a couple), savings, suitable accommodation, and A1 level German are required. Since the quota is limited each year and can fill quickly, early application is critical.

Difference from Citizenship by Investment

This permit is a residence (settlement) route and does not directly grant citizenship. Austria's exceptional-contribution citizenship route (Section 10(6)) is an entirely separate, discretionary, and much higher-cost process. The special settlement permit is a suitable and accessible route only for those wishing to live in Austria.

Applying Before the Quota Fills

Austria's special settlement permit is designed for people who can support themselves from passive income and want to live quietly at the heart of Europe without taking up work. Because the number of places is capped each year, timing is central to any realistic plan; applications that are ready when the quota opens stand the best chance. The essentials are a sufficient passive income of around EUR 27,000 annually for a single person, together with savings, secured accommodation, health insurance, and basic German at A1 level. Family members can be included, so couples and households can plan the move together, keeping in mind the higher income expected for a couple. Preparing language certification and financial evidence well ahead of the opening avoids losing a place to the calendar. The permit also offers a path toward permanent residence for those who settle in for the long term. Given how the quota shapes the odds, it is worth mapping your documents and timeline with an adviser before the annual window arrives.

Benefits

High quality of life at the heart of Europe.
Living without working through passive income.
Family members can be included.
Path to permanent residence.

Requirements

Sufficient passive income and savings.
A1 level German.
Accommodation and health insurance; annual quota.

Costs

Income proof: ~EUR 27,000/year (single person)
Rent and cost of living: Depending on region/city
Government fees: Additionally apply

FAQ

Why does the quota matter?: The special settlement permit is granted in limited numbers each year; since the quota can fill quickly, early application is important.
Is German required?: Yes, A1 level German is required to begin.
Can I work?: No. This permit does not grant work rights; you are expected to support yourself with your passive income.
Can I include my family?: Yes. Spouse and dependent children can be included; the income threshold is higher for families.
When can I move to permanent residence and citizenship?: Generally permanent residence can be applied for after five years of legal residence; citizenship after a longer period (approximately 10 years) of residence and meeting requirements.

Sources

Migration.gv.at (Republic of Austria) - Permanent immigration / Red-White-Red Card

Disclaimer: Golden Visa Partners is an investment and immigration advisory firm; it does not provide legal or attorney services. The investment amounts, timelines and program conditions on this page are for general guidance only and, because regulations change quickly, may be out of date. Before making any decision, we recommend consulting current official sources and obtaining independent legal and financial advice.

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