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Austria

Austria offers a unique blend of innovation, quality of life, and economic opportunity within the European Union.

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Vienna

Sources: DG for Communication

Euro (€)

Sources: DG for Communication

German

Sources: DG for Communication

9.2M

Sources: Eurostat

Corporate Tax Rate 23% (2025)

Tax rate applied to profits of incorporated companies.

Austria's competitive 23% corporate tax rate, recently reduced, signals a strong commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and attracting investment.

ESNA SNS#1: Fast Startup Creation Score 62% (2025)

Efficiency of starting a business and administrative support.

With a good score for startup efficiency, Austria offers a highly digitalized and streamlined process for entrepreneurs to quickly launch and grow their businesses.

GDP Growth 0,3% (2025)

Annual real GDP growth rate forecast.

Austria's highly advanced and resilient economy is forecast to grow steadily, driven by innovation in technology and a strong commitment to sustainable industry.

ESNA SNS#6: Access to Finance Score 44% (2025)

Availability of public and private funding for startups.

Austria's thriving startup scene is supported by a sophisticated and accessible financial ecosystem, offering excellent access to venture capital and public funds.

Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI) 94,8 (2026)

A snapshot of business and consumer confidence.

The Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI) measures overall confidence in the economy by combining survey results from consumers and key sectors such as industry, services, retail, construction, and (where available) financial services.

Labour Cost €44,5/hr (2024)

Average hourly cost of employing a worker.

Austria's labour costs are an investment in one of the world's most educated, productive, and innovative workforces, driving a high-value economy.

Top Personal Income Tax Rate 55% (2025)

Progressive personal income tax rates apply in Austria.

Austria's progressive tax system funds world-class infrastructure and social services, while offering deductions that reward investment and support families.

Global Happiness Rank 17th (2024)

Evaluates national wellbeing and overall life satisfaction.

Consistently ranked among the world's happiest countries, Austria's high life satisfaction is fuelled by its stunning natural environment, rich culture, and strong social fabric.

Global Cost of Living Rank 19th (2026)

Overall measure of national health system performance

Austria boasts one of Europe's top-ranked healthcare systems, providing residents with exceptional, accessible, and high-quality medical care.

Global Peace Index 4th (2025)

Assesses national peacefulness, safety, and security levels.

As one of the top 5 most peaceful countries globally, Austria offers a secure and stable environment for families, businesses, and individuals to thrive.

Working-Age Employment Rate 77,4% (2024)

Percentage of population aged 20-64 that is employed.

With a robust employment rate over 77%, Austria empowers its workforce, fostering a secure and prosperous environment for all residents.

ESNA SNS#8: Digital First Score 48% (2025)

Measures the digital-by-default availability of key public services.

Austria provides comprehensive and accessible digital public services, enhancing efficiency for citizens and businesses alike.

Annual Inflation Rate 3,6% (2025)

Measures the change in consumer prices over time.

Austria's economy offers a predictable and secure environment, protecting the purchasing power of consumers and businesses.

Euro Health Consumer Index Score 9th (2026)

Overall measure of national health system performance

Austria secures a top-tier position, showcasing a robust health system dedicated to the well-being of its citizens.

Non-EU citizens must present a valid passport and, depending on their nationality, a visa. Short stays require a Schengen visa, while a national visa is necessary for stays longer than 90 days.

EU citizens can enter Austria with a valid passport or ID card. For stays exceeding three months, registration with local authorities is required, along with proof of employment, sufficient resources, or student status.

As a third-country national you can apply for a Red-White-Red Card for start-up founders if you establish a company in order to develop and launch on the market innovative products, services, processing methods or technologies and other requirements.

Austria's diplomatic missions abroad offer a range of services to foreigners and Austrian citizens. A complete directory can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs.