From 1 to 8 December 2025, Austrian embassies worldwide are accepting online appointment bookings for applicants who wish to file quota-based non-work residence permits in 2026. The Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs quietly announced the narrow window on 26 November, and only those who obtained a pre-registration code earlier in the month can reserve a slot.
The affected categories include the Settlement Permit for financially independent persons, retirees, accompanying parents of international assignees, artists, and certain digital nomads who do not intend to work on the Austrian labour market. Because the annual quota is capped—in 2025 only 450 main applicants were accepted—securing a consular appointment is effectively the first hurdle in the immigration process.
![Austrian embassies open one-week booking window for 2026 quota-based non-work residence permits]()
Applicants must book separate slots for each family member and attach the correct visa category during reservation. Incorrect bookings will be cancelled automatically, and latecomers will have to wait until December 2026 for the next quota release.
Immigration advisers urge early document preparation: police clearances, proof of income above the subsistence threshold (€1,274 per month for singles) and comprehensive health insurance valid in Austria. They also remind travellers that arriving in Austria before the residence permit is issued may breach Schengen rules if the 90/180-day allowance is exceeded.
The affected categories include the Settlement Permit for financially independent persons, retirees, accompanying parents of international assignees, artists, and certain digital nomads who do not intend to work on the Austrian labour market. Because the annual quota is capped—in 2025 only 450 main applicants were accepted—securing a consular appointment is effectively the first hurdle in the immigration process.
Applicants must book separate slots for each family member and attach the correct visa category during reservation. Incorrect bookings will be cancelled automatically, and latecomers will have to wait until December 2026 for the next quota release.
Immigration advisers urge early document preparation: police clearances, proof of income above the subsistence threshold (€1,274 per month for singles) and comprehensive health insurance valid in Austria. They also remind travellers that arriving in Austria before the residence permit is issued may breach Schengen rules if the 90/180-day allowance is exceeded.
