Can an expat get a visa for Austria as a retiree?

Hi Floyd,

Yes, it is possible to get a visa as a retiree and it is possible to retire in Austria. Where are you from? If you are not an EU or EEA national, you will have to look into the residence permits for Austria, as you would be staying there for longer than six months. Have a look at Visas for Austria for more info. You should research the settlement permit – gainful employment excepted, which allows you to settle in the country without working there. Several supporting documents would be needed as well as meeting certain criteria. Expats normally have to prove they have sufficient funds as well as health insurance. Although, for the most up-to-date information, you should contact the nearest embassy.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Claire

Claire,

My family lived in Austria for 15 years, 1980-1995. I started as a married student with two small children, but we eventually received a long-term visa, and I got an Austrian driver's license. Then we left and went elsewhere. That was 25 years ago. I assume that our long-term visa is no longer valid, since we have not had a meldezettel for those 25 years.

We live in Spokane, WA, at the moment. I'm working full time as a university prof., but I'm 72, Christine is 68, & retiring is beginning to look good.

Thanks for the info. I appreciate any more input you might have.

Floyd