Have you ever wondered what it feels like to hold the world in your hands?

With an Austrian passport, you're pretty close!

This burgundy book isn't just your ticket to global escapades; it's a symbol of Austria's rich heritage and its harmonious place in the global community.

Let’s see what it has to offer…

*Disclaimer: All amounts quoted in this article were correct and accurate at the time of publication and may have shifted since.

Austrian Passports: The Basics

When traveling abroad, Austrian citizens rely on their trusted passports.

The Austrian passport stands as a symbol of the nation's identity and its international reputation.

Here's our comprehensive breakdown:

Design

The Austrian passport adheres to the accepted style in the European Union.¹ 

It's characterized by the following:

• A burgundy-red cover with the Austrian coat of arms in the center.
• The words "EUROPEAN UNION" and "REPUBLIC OF AUSTRIA" are written above and below the emblem, respectively.
• Size and layout adhering to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Benefits

Holders of an Austrian passport enjoy numerous advantages.²

These benefits include:

• Extensive visa-free travel: The Austrian passport ranks among the top globally, allowing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries.
• EU member privileges: As Austria is an EU member, passport-holders can live, work, or study in any EU country with minimal formalities.
• Consular assistance: In foreign countries without Austrian embassies, holders can seek assistance from any EU embassy.

Biometric Features & Security Enhancements

For enhanced security, Austrian passports come equipped with a biometric chip storing the holder's personal data and photograph and advanced security features.

These features include watermarks, micro-printing, and UV-reactive ink to prevent forgery and counterfeiting.

Eligibility for Non-Residents

While primarily for citizens, there are instances when non-residents might be eligible for an Austrian passport.

These instances include that they have Austrian ancestry or familial ties, or have been long-term residents of Austria and meet specific criteria.

Dual Citizenship

Austria traditionally has strict rules about dual citizenship - it's typically not permitted. 

However, there are exceptions:

• If someone acquires both citizenships at birth.
• Under specific individual circumstances where the Austrian government grants permission.

Cost & Fees

The fee for an Austrian passport varies based on age, validity period, and whether it's a first-time application or renewal.

Fees look like this:

• Adult passports (valid for 10 years): approximate fee of €75
• Child passports (valid for 2 years): approximate fee of €30

Important Passport Regulations

Always ensure your Austrian passport has at least 6 months' validity when traveling to avoid potential complications.

Lost or stolen passports must be reported immediately to prevent misuse.

Keep your powerful passport in good condition, as damage, especially to the biometric chip, can lead to travel disruptions.

5 Types of Austrian Passports

Austria has 5 types of passports to choose from; it all depends on your specific situation.

Let’s have a closer look.

Regular Passport

The regular passport, or Reisepass, is the most common passport issued to Austrian citizens for international travel.

It’s burgundy (the standard for EU passports) and contains a biometric chip with the holder's data and photo, enhancing security and reducing fraud.

Typically

It’s valid for 10 years for adults, and for those under 12, it's issued for 2 years.

Temporary/Emergency Passport

The temporary/emergency passport, or the Notpass, is issued in urgent situations where there's no time to process a regular passport.

For example, if someone loses their passport while traveling, they'd apply for a temporary or emergency passport.   

Additionally

Validity is often limited, sometimes just for a trip or a few months.

It’s not as widely accepted as the regular passport, especially since some countries demand the biometric feature.

You can apply at an Austrian consulate or embassy when abroad, but you'll need proof of identity and proof of the emergency (like a police report if your passport was stolen).

Diplomatic Passport

The diplomatic passport, or Diplomatenpass, is issued to individuals representing the Austrian government on official duties, such as diplomats or high-ranking officials, and is valid for 5 years.

It stands out thanks to its dark blue cover and, by international law, may grant the holder special rights or immunity abroad.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs generally provides this passport based on the individual's role or assignment, so it's not applied for in a conventional sense like the regular passport.

Service Passport

The service passport, or Dienstpass, is issued to government employees or officials traveling abroad for non-diplomatic official duties.

It has a green cover and doesn't grant the same privileges as a diplomatic passport but signals to foreign authorities the official nature of the holder's travel.

Child's Passport

The child's passport, or Kinderpass, is designed specifically for children below the age of 12.

It looks just like the regular passport, burgundy, but has a distinct format to indicate it's for minors.

It’s typically valid for 2 years and can be renewed until the child turns 12, after which they should apply for a regular passport.

A biometric photo is required, but no fingerprint is needed for children under 6.

That being said

Parents or guardians need to apply on behalf of the child.

Power of Austrian Passports

Austrian passports are among the most powerful in the world, granting their holders many privileges.

As a member of the European Union, Austria allows its passport holders freedom of movement within the Schengen Area and across many nations outside of it.

Austrian citizens benefit from ease of travel, reduced bureaucracy, and the ability to live and work in numerous countries.

Here are some interesting facts to note:

Visa-Free & Visa-On-Arrival Countries

Austrian passport holders can currently travel to 155 countries without a visa, including Hong Kong, Ireland, South Korea, and Latvia.³  

In addition to these visa-free countries, Austrian citizens have access to 36 e-visas and 6 visa-on-arrival options, including Albania (visa-free for up to 90 days), Angola (visa not required for 30 days, extendable), and Argentina (visa-free for up to 90 days).

Global Ranking

The Austrian passport enjoys prestigious positions on various ranking platforms.

This high ranking is a testament to the Austrian passport's "power" and the global mobility it provides its holders.

According to the global Passport Index, the Austrian passport ranks 3rd in the world as of 2025.⁴ 

Austrian Passport Renewal Process

Renewing an Austrian passport is a straightforward process.

You must have all your documentation correct and prepared to avoid delays.

You should be prepared for:

• Application form: Start by obtaining and filling out the Austrian passport renewal application form. This is available at local municipal offices or online on the official Austrian government website.
• Photograph: Provide recent passport-sized photographs. Ensure they meet the biometric requirements: neutral expression, clear view of the eyes and ears, no reflections, etc.
• Current passport: Present your existing passport. If it's your first renewal, you must also show your birth certificate and proof of Austrian citizenship.
• Fees: There's a fee associated with passport renewal. Payment methods vary, so check with the local office or embassy where you're renewing.
• Submission: Applications can be made in Austria at local municipal or district offices. If you're abroad, the Austrian embassy or consulate in that country is the place to go.
• Wait time: The processing time can vary, but generally, it takes a few weeks. However, expedited services might be available in urgent scenarios for an additional fee.
• Collection: Once processed, you'll be notified about the collection of your new passport. Some offices or embassies may also offer postal delivery for your convenience.

A word of advice

Always ensure you renew your passport well in advance, especially if you have upcoming travel plans.

Common Questions

In Conclusion

So, whether you're sipping coffee in a Viennese café or exploring a remote island halfway across the world, remember: it's not just about the destinations your Austrian passport can take you to, but also the stories and experiences it helps you weave.

Happy globetrotting with your Austrian key to the world!

If you’re wondering what other passports exist, you can read more about other countries and their passports in our extensive library of articles.