Austria: Information on whether it is possible to extend a visitor's visa and, if so, information on the process
| Publisher | Canada: Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada |
| Author | Research Directorate, Immigration and Refugee Board, Canada |
| Publication Date | 1 February 1995 |
| Citation / Document Symbol | AUT19693.E |
| Cite as | Canada: Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, Austria: Information on whether it is possible to extend a visitor's visa and, if so, information on the process, 1 February 1995, AUT19693.E, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/3ae6ac5914.html [accessed 18 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
In a telephone interview on 7 February 1995, an official of the Embassy of the Republic of Austria in Ottawa provided the following information. A visitor's visa is initially granted for a three-month period, and one can extend a visitor's visa for an additional three months. The maximum period that one can hold a visitor's visa is six months per calendar year. If the individual intends to reside in Austria for more than six months, or desires to work in Austria, then the individual must apply for a resident's permit from abroad.
The official stated that the process for extending the visitor's visa while in Austrian provincial capitals would be to approach the federal police; elsewhere in Austria, one approaches a district administration office. Documentation required to be submitted would include a completed application form, a photo, and evidence of all-risk health insurance and sufficient funds. The requirements are somewhat dependent on individual circumstances. For example, if a person lacks sufficient funds, the authorities might require a sponsorship declaration from an Austrian citizen. The normal time period for processing an application for a visitor's visa extension is several days. If a visitor's visa expires while one is abroad, one can apply for an extension from abroad. But if it is granted, the extension would be considered as the second portion of the above-mentioned six- month period.
This response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the DIRB within time constraints. This response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum.
Reference
Embassy of the Republic of Austria, Ottawa. 7 February 1995. Telephone interview with official.
