Settlement Permit Excluding Gainful Employment

The Settlement Permit Excluding Gainful Employment is Austria's residence permit for financially independent third-country nationals who wish to settle without engaging in any form of work. It targets retirees, pensioners, and individuals living on investment income, rental income, or other passive sources. The permit operates under Austria's strict annual quota system with approximately 400 places per year, making availability limited and competitive.

• Fixed and regular monthly passive income of at least twice the ASVG reference rates (€2,616.78/month for single persons in 2026)
• Income must come from own sources: pensions, investment returns, rental income, or foreign business profits
• Social welfare benefits do not count toward the income requirement
• Comprehensive health insurance covering all risks in Austria (travel insurance is not sufficient)
• Proof of accommodation meeting local standards
• German language skills at A1 level at time of application
• Clean criminal record
• Must not intend to engage in any employment or self-employment

• Valid passport and biometric photograph (45x35 mm)
• Proof of accommodation (lease agreement or property deed adequate for family size)
• Proof of passive income (pension statements, bank statements, investment portfolio documentation)
• Health insurance certificate covering all risks in Austria
• Criminal record certificate (not older than 3 months)
• German language certificate at A1 level
• Birth certificate and marriage certificate if applicable
• All foreign-language documents require court-certified translations with apostille

The permit is initially issued for 12 months, with the first renewal also for 12 months. Subsequent renewals are for 3 years, provided the holder has completed Module 1 of the Integration Agreement (German A2), maintained continuous lawful residence for 2+ years, and holds a passport valid for 3+ years. Renewal applications must be submitted before the current permit expires and are not quota-dependent. After 5 years, holders may apply for the Long-Term Resident EU permanent residence permit with German B1 proficiency. Austrian citizenship by naturalisation is possible after 10 years of continuous residence.

Spouses, registered partners, and minor unmarried children may each apply for the same type of settlement permit. Each family member requires a separate quota place from the same annual allocation, and must independently meet all requirements including health insurance, accommodation, and income contribution. The income threshold for couples is €4,128.24/month plus €403.76 per child. Family members apply through the same embassy process.

Holders who establish domicile or habitual residence in Austria (residing 6+ months) become unlimited tax residents subject to Austrian income tax on worldwide income. Austria maintains double taxation agreements with numerous countries to prevent double taxation. Tax residents must file annual income tax returns with the local tax office.

The process begins with an annual pre-registration window, typically held in November for the following year's quota. Applicants register online through their Austrian embassy or consulate and receive a reservation code. They then book an in-person appointment during the booking window (typically December) and submit all documents. The embassy forwards the application to the provincial settlement authority. Places are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis each January. Upon approval, applicants must request an entry visa within 3 months and collect the permit within 6 months. The authority has up to 6 months to decide. Application fee is €218.