Europe · Alpine

Austria

The only EU state where a passport can be obtained in under a year — but only for genuine extraordinary merit, at the Cabinet's discretion, and at the price of every other citizenship you hold.

Last verified July 2026191 visa-free destinations

Tax position

Income tax (top)
55% on income over EUR 1,000,000
Capital gains
27.5% flat on securities, dividends and interest (KESt); 30% flat on real estate gains (ImmoESt) regardless of holding period, with an owner-occupier exemption
Wealth tax
none
Inheritance tax
none — abolished 2008. Note that inheritance and wealth taxes re-entered concrete parliamentary debate in late 2025/2026; no bill enacted as of July 2026
Special regime
Zuzugsbegünstigung (§103 EStG) for incoming scientists, researchers, artists and athletes — relief from the additional tax burden of relocating, up to 10 years, plus a 30% Zuzugsfreibetrag for up to 5 years
Territorial
No — worldwide income taxed
CFC rules
Yes
Exit tax
Yes — leaving has a cost
CRS
Participating

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