Quota Requested Permits

For financially independent third-country nationals

The Privatier Permit (Niederlassungsbewilligung – ausgenommen Erwerbstätigkeit) enables financially independent third-country nationals to reside in Austria without working. This permit is designed for retirees, investors, or individuals with passive income who can support themselves through pensions, investment income, or savings.

Who Qualifies:

• Third-country nationals with regular passive income (pension, investments, rental income, business profits)
• No intention to work in Austria (neither employed nor self-employed)
• German language skills at A1 level or University Degree
• Health insurance covering all risks in Austria
• Adequate accommodation meeting local standards
• Secured quota place

Validity:

Initial permit valid 12 months. After 2 years with Module 1 Integration Agreement (A2 German): 3-year validity. After 5 years: eligible for Permanent Residence EU (requires B1 German).

Settlement Permit – Relatives (Niederlassungsbewilligung – Angehöriger):

For extended family members of Austrian citizens, including unmarried life partners, parents, parents-in-law, grandparents receiving maintenance, and other relatives who lived together in the same household abroad or require personal care due to serious health conditions. Requires a declaration of liability from the Austrian sponsor and a quota place. Pathway to Permanent Residence EU after 5 years.

Settlement Permit (Niederlassungsbewilligung):

For unmarried life partners of EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who exercised their EU right of residence, or for family reunification where the sponsor holds certain settlement permits. Requires a quota place. Self-employment only – no salaried work permitted. Pathway to Permanent Residence EU after 5 years.