The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
- the whole of Austria based on the current assessment of COVID-19 risks.
If you are returning to the UK from Austria, you will need to self-isolate on your return (unless you are exempt). Check the latest guidance for England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Travel may be subject to entry restrictions
- A landing ban is in place for all flights from the UK to Austria until 7 February
- All travellers arriving in Austria from the UK must fill in a pre-travel clearance online form and quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. You have the option of taking a self-funded PCR or antigen test after 5 days (your day of arrival counts as day 0). If your result is negative, you will no longer need to stay in quarantine
See Entry requirements for more information before you plan to travel.
Preparing for your return journey to the UK
If you’re returning to the UK from overseas, you will need to:
Check our advice on foreign travel during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and sign up for email alerts for this travel advice.
If you’re planning travel to Austria, find out what you need to know about coronavirus there in the Coronavirus section.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.
There are rules about taking food and drink into the EU. See Taking food and drink into the EU for further information.
There is a general threat from terrorism. There may be increased security in place over the festive period, including at Christmas markets and other major events that might attract large crowds. You should remain vigilant and follow the advice of the local authorities.
Around 980,000 British nationals visit Austria each year. Most visits are trouble-free.
If you’re living in or moving to Austria, visit our Living in Austria guide in addition to this travel advice.
It’s generally illegal in Austria to wear in a public place any clothing or object that conceals the face and makes facial features unrecognisable.This does not apply to medical or fabric face masks, which are compulsory in some situations due to coronavirus. See Local laws and customs
You should carry your passport with you when crossing the border into or from Austria. Monitor local media and check with your transport provider or the Austrian Railways (OBB) website for updates.
There are occasional demonstrations in Austria’s cities. Although these are generally peaceful, you should take extra care near demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.
There are complex driving laws in Austria, especially for caravan and motor-home owners. See Road travel
There’s a danger of avalanches in some areas, particularly in periods of heavy snowfall. Even during summertime this danger still exists for snow-covered areas. See Skiing
Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Austria. You should be vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities. See Terrorism
Don’t carry your passport around with you. Leave it in your hotel safe and carry a photocopy instead. See Local laws and customs
If you need to contact the emergency services call 112.
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.
The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
