Whether you’re thinking of doing some autumnal hiking, or planning ahead to the ski season, this is what you need to know to travel to Austria.
Austria is open for visitors from low risk countries and all other countries not considered very high risk. Travellers from very high risk countries can only travel to Austria for essential reasons. These countries are currently: Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Suriname and Zimbabwe.
Travellers from all other countries need to present one of the following:
- A negative PCR test result (no older than 72 hours)
- Vaccination certificate of an approved vaccine.
- Certificate of recovery no older than 180 days
- Positive antibody test no older than 90 days
A 10 day quarantine is mandatory for unvaccinated arrivals and those without a recovery certificate when travelling from medium risk countries. These travellers must also pre-register before their trip.
In Austria
Austria’s sites are open to visitors, as are restaurants, bars, hotels, museums, and other attractions. Almost all indoor and some outdoor public spaces require you to present either a negative Covid-19 test, or proof of vaccination or recovery. From the 15th of September the following rules apply:
- Antigen tests only valid for 24 hours as entry tests for restaurants, hotels etc. (this does not apply to entering the country)
- FFP2 masks (instead of regular face masks) required for everyone on public transport, in cable cars, and essential businesses such as supermarkets, chemists, petrol stations, banks
- FFP2 masks required in all shops and museums for those that are not vaccinated or have recovered from COVID
- Proof of vaccination, past infection, or negative test required for events and gatherings of 25 people and more
Children under the age of 14 do not need to wear a mask.
Out and About
You are allowed to eat and sleep in the mountain huts, if you are planning a hiking holiday to Austria. An ‘entry test’ is a requirement however, as these huts follow the same rules as restaurants. An entry test is either, proof of vaccination or recovery, or a recent negative Covid-19 test result.
Cable cars are back up and running. Masks are a requirement, and booking in advance is advised as there are capacity limits.
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Spas, wellness centres, gyms and swimming pools are operational. As with restaurants and other venues, proof of vaccination, or recovery, or a negative PCR test are required for entry. You do not need to wear a mask in these establishments.