NamibiaAustria
Namibian passport · policy checked 5 Jul 2026
Visa required
Apply before you travel.
90
days
on a tourist visa
90
EUR · visa fee
about $103
15-45
days
processing time
VFS
visa application centre
How Namibian citizens apply for a Austria visa
- Lodge your application at a VFS Global visa application centre, with the completed form and required documents. Apply here ↗
Austria visa cost for Namibian citizens
EUR 90
Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) - adult
Lodged through VFS Global, whose service fee applies on top and varies by centre.
Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) - adult
up to 90 days in any 180-day period
EUR 90
National visa (Type D, 91 days - 6 months) - adult
91 days to 6 months (longer stays not covered by Schengen C)
EUR 195
Austria visa types for Namibian citizens
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Visa C)Tourist
90 daysmultiple entry15-45d processing
Tourism, visiting family/friends, or short business trips without employment. Permits travel throughout the Schengen Area.
The visa application centre publishes no document checklist for this type.
Fee is €90 (~USD 99); €45 for ages 6-12. Maximum 90 days within any 180-day period. Requires valid passport, travel insurance (min. €30,000), proof of financial means, and return commitment. Apply at Austrian embassy/consulate in country of residence. Processing typically 15 calendar days; up to 45 days if additional checks needed.
Official page ↗Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Visa C) - BusinessBusiness
90 daysmultiple entry15-45d processing
Attending business meetings, conferences, or negotiations in Austria without taking up employment.
The visa application centre publishes no document checklist for this type.
Same Visa C category as tourist visa but with business purpose stated in application. Fee €90. No separate category for business short-stay; purpose is declared on application form.
Official page ↗Airport Transit Visa (Visa A)Transit
single entry15-45d processing
Permits passage through the international transit zone of Austrian airports without entering the Schengen Area.
The visa application centre publishes no document checklist for this type.
Required only for nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DRC, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, and Syria. Exempt if holder has valid Schengen/Irish/US/Canadian/Japanese visa or qualifying residence permit. Standard Schengen visa fee (€90) applies.
Official page ↗Family Reunification Visa / PermitFamily
multiple entry
Allows eligible family members (spouses, minor children) of third-country nationals with valid Austrian residence permits to join them in Austria.
The visa application centre publishes no document checklist for this type.
Fee is €260 (~USD 286); €130 for children under 6. For family members of asylum-status holders, different rules apply. Sponsors must demonstrate adequate financial means and appropriate housing. EU/EEA family members are governed by EU Freedom of Movement rules, not this permit.
Official page ↗Pupil Residence Permit (Aufenthaltsbewilligung Schüler)Student
multiple entry
Allows third-country national minors to reside in Austria to attend primary or secondary school.
For pupils enrolled in Austrian primary or secondary schools. Requires proof of enrollment, health insurance, and proof of adequate means of subsistence.
Official page ↗Student Residence Permit (Aufenthaltsbewilligung Studierender)Student
multiple entry
Allows third-country nationals to reside in Austria for the duration of their studies at accredited universities, polytechnics, or private institutions.
Requires proof of enrollment at an accredited Austrian institution, adequate financial means (approx. €1,308/month), and health insurance. Students may work up to 20 hours per week without a separate labor market test. After graduation, permit can be extended for 12 months to seek employment or start a business.
Official page ↗EU Blue Card Austria (EU-Blaue Karte)Work
multiple entryvalid 730d
Residence and work permit for third-country nationals with a university degree and qualifying job offer, implementing the EU Blue Card Directive in Austria.
Fee is €218 (~USD 240). Requires university degree (minimum 3-year program) or, for ICT professionals/service managers, 3 years comparable experience in the last 7 years; a binding job offer for at least 6 months; and salary at least equal to the average gross annual income for full-time employees (in 2026: at least €55,678 gross annual incl. special payments). Card issued for 24 months. After 21 months of employment, eligible for Red-White-Red Card Plus. Labor market test applies.
Official page ↗Intra-Corporate Transfer Permit (ICT)Work
multiple entry
Temporary residence and work permit for third-country nationals transferred within a multinational company to an Austrian entity as managers, specialists, or trainee employees.
Implements EU ICT Directive. Covers managers, specialists, and trainees. Mobile ICT variant available for movement within multiple EU member states. Must demonstrate active employment relationship with the sending entity and temporary assignment to Austrian host entity.
Official page ↗Job Seeker Visa (Jobsuchvisum)Work
180 dayssingle entryup to 180d processingvalid 180d
Allows highly qualified third-country nationals to enter Austria for up to 6 months to seek employment, without the right to work during this period.
Six-month Visa D category. Employment is strictly prohibited during the validity period. Intended for highly qualified workers who then apply for a Red-White-Red Card once they secure a job offer.
Official page ↗Red-White-Red Card (Rot-Weiß-Rot-Karte)Work
multiple entry21d processingvalid 730d
Points-based settlement permit granting the right to live and work in Austria for qualified third-country nationals including very highly qualified workers, skilled workers in shortage occupations, self-employed key workers, and start-up founders.
Valid for 24 months, employer-tied for most categories. AMS (Public Employment Service) reviews macroeconomic benefit within 3 weeks. After 24 months (min. 21 months in employment), eligible for Red-White-Red Card Plus (unrestricted labor market access). Sub-categories: Very Highly Qualified Workers (min. 70 pts), Shortage Occupation Workers, Self-Employed Key Workers (min. €100,000 capital transfer or equivalent benefit), Start-up Founders (min. €30,000 capital, min. 50 pts). No specific USD fee published on official source.
Official page ↗Red-White-Red Card Plus (Rot-Weiß-Rot-Karte plus)Work
multiple entryvalid 365d
Settlement permit granting unlimited (non-employer-tied) access to the Austrian labour market for holders transitioning from a Red-White-Red Card or EU Blue Card, family members of settled foreigners, and certain other settled third-country nationals.
Fee is €218 (~USD 240). Distinct card from the Red-White-Red Card: grants unlimited labour-market access (employed or self-employed, not tied to one employer). Typically issued after 21 of the last 24 months in qualifying employment on a Red-White-Red Card or EU Blue Card, or to family members. Valid for 12 months; those lawfully settled 2+ years who meet Integration Agreement Module requirements may receive a card valid for 3 years.
Official page ↗Researcher Mobility PermitWork
multiple entry
Temporary residence permit for third-country national researchers to carry out research activities at an approved Austrian research organisation.
Implements EU Researcher Directive. Requires hosting agreement with an approved Austrian research organisation. Family members may accompany. Mobile researcher provisions allow activity across EU member states.
Official page ↗Settlement Permit - Artist (Niederlassungsbewilligung Künstler)Work
multiple entry
Settlement permit for third-country nationals pursuing self-employed or dependently employed artistic activity in Austria (e.g. musicians, performers, visual artists).
For persons whose income comes predominantly from artistic activity. For dependent employment an employer declaration is required; for self-employed activity a contract and proof of artistic education/training are required. Grants settlement with labour-market access limited to the artistic activity.
Official page ↗Non Immigrant Visa SchengenOtherdocuments
IMPORTANT · Austrian Embassy Visa Requirements · REQUIREMENTS: · Passports for Minors: · Visa · PROCESSING TIME: · Please note:
- Original Valid Passport with copy of the biometric data page
- Application form completed and signed by the applicant, plus 1 colour photographs
- Copy of flight reservation and detailed flight reservation(Leaving Namibia entering Schengen Area and leaving Schengen area entering Namibia)
- Copy of insurance policy (Visa Letter). Insurance can only be accepted if the insurer is either based (registered) or in the European Union. Minimum cover shall be €30000.
- Proof of accommodation for full stay in Schengen state as well as proof of sufficient fund to pay for it.
- Invitation letter, copy of host’s passport, police registration (when staying with family/friends in Austria)
- Employment letter stating monthly wages, continuing employment after period of leave and duration of vacation/pension/retirement/university/school letter-original 3 month recent bank statements of father or mother current account, and original affidavit certified by a commissioner of oath, showing that they are being sponsored./self-employed (provide CIPRO documents)
- Copy and original full/unabridged birth certificate indicating both biological parents names and Identity numbers(minor children), Parental consent (if needed)
- All the copies of previous Schengen visas
- Bank statements (up to date, recent three months original bank statements of the current account, savings account or investment account can be submitted in addition, each page stamped by the bank)
- Copy of biographical data page of passport
- Clearly completed and signed Common Schengen Application Form, (available from Consular Web sites or Consular Offices). Please ensure that question 37 is signed and that applicants aged 14 and above co-sign the application form in all relevant places. Both parents for children under 18 need to sign.
- Namibian passport
- Non-South Africa Nationals: South African residence permit or temporary residence permit or temporary residence valid at least three months beyond the planned stay in the territory of the member states
- One recent passport sized
- Copy of round trip flight reservation and detailed itinerary including dates and flight numbers, specifying the dates of entry and exit from the territory of the Schengen State. Please provide a copy for each application.
- The
- Proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay
- Airport Transit - Proof of entry of the final country of destination.
- Proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay Submit original recent three months current up to date bank statements of a current account each page stamped. Savings account or investment statements can be submitted in addition. Internet statements and bank letters will not be accepted. Credit Card Statements are not accepted. If expenses are covered by the host this needs to be clearly established in the invitation letter or note verbal, as appropriate
- Travel/Health/Accident Insurance Policy with a minimum medical coverage of Euro 30.000,00. (Visa Letter). An insurance can only be accepted if the insurer is either based (registered) in South Africa or in the European Union.
- Accommodation:
- Confirmed hotel reservation as well as proof of sufficient funds to pay for it or tour vouchers (copy of the vouchers and originals). Please ensure that all applicants names, address of hotel and check in and out dates are clearly stated.
- In case of a prepaid tour, details of the tour with a proof of payment to the operator should be provided.
- If you are visiting and staying with friends or family in Austria (without financial sponsorship): Invitation letter from host, the letter must clearly identify the host and the invitee( name, address, birthdate, official identification number, occupations and permanent residence) ; the purpose of the visit ; length of stay and accommodation status( where the invitee stays and whom pays for itand copy of the host’s passport, copy of Meldezettel” or “Unterkunftsbestätigung” of your host (proof of residence).
- If your visit is supported and paid for by a sponsor residing in Austria: electronic affidavit (“elektronische Verpflichtungserklärung” - EVE) which can be obtained by the host from the nearest aliens police (“Fremdenpolizei”) in Austria.
- For business
- Proof of employment: a letter from company stating monthly wages, continuing employment after period of leave and duration of vacation etc. For participant in conferences: a proof of registration and payment. If Self-employed; a certification from SA companies and Intellectual property Commission or SA Revenue Service is required
- If applicant is a student: letter from school/college/university in South Africa certifying the status of the applicant. One parent must provide three months up to date bank statements stamped, letter from account holder, confirming financial responsibility and copy of account holder Identity document. Original 3 month recent bank statements of father or mother current account. An original affidavit certified by a Commissioner of Oath, that they are being sponsored.
- Parental consent for children under 18:
- Administrative costs for processing of visas:
- Transit; If the applicant intends to enter the territory of a Member State , however, short the stay will be ( including change of the airport, going from airport to train or bus station or even change terminals when that entails entering the territory of the Member state) he/she must apply for a short stay visa.
- Children under 6 years
- School pupils, students, post graduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake trips for the purpose of study or educational training
- Researchers from third countries travelling within the Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations.
- RSA passport holders: up to 15 calendar days
- Foreign passport holders: can take up to several weeks
- Visa applications will be rejected if application forms are not fully completed and signed and are not accompanied by the required documents.
- The possession of a visa is only one of the prerequisites for entry into the territory of the Schengen State. Should the Schengen State’s border authority refuse entry, no claim to refund of the visa can be submitted.
- The Schengen State’s Consular Offices reserve the right to request further documentation should it be deemed necessary.
- For organized groups arrangements should be made well in advance with relevant issuing authority.
- There is no guarantee that a visa will be issued and no rights can be derived from the information obtained in the general Schengen visa requirements
- Visa processing fees are non-refundable if a visa is rejected.
- The border police at your arrival in the Schengen area may request the presentation of sufficient funds, a letter of invitation, hotel reservation and proof of medical insurance. Failure to present said funds/documents may result in entry being refused.
- Delays and procedure: It is the responsibility of the applicant to be aware of delays and requirements for the issuance of visas, before making travel arrangements and applying for a visa.
- Parental Sponsorship of children 18+ Requirements **Children over 18 that are being sponsored by their parents require an affidavit certified by a Commissioner of Oaths, unabridged birth certificate, and the most recent 3-month recent bank statement/s (stamped by the bank) of the parent sponsoring.
You will need to complete the Application for Schengen Visa
To enter Austria, South African passport holders need a valid passport and a visa.
All applicants need to submit their Visa applications in person no longer than three months ahead of their journey and no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure.
Kindly submit your supporting documents, without staples in the documents, in the following order:
You may download the General Schengen requirement here
NOTE: When travelling with a family, please submit copy of flight reservation and insurance with each application, remaining documents may be submitted with the main application.
South African citizens require a visa to enter the Schengen territory, i.e. Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvian Republic, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland
Before applying please make sure you fulfill all the following requirements.
, which must be valid for a period of at least 3 months beyond the applicant’s last day of stay in the Schengen States. Please ensure that the passport has at least two blank pages to affix visa. Please sign passport if in old format
Please be advised that Denmark does not recognize the new South African passport which is issued to minors below the age of 16 and bears the phrase “too young to sign,” instead of a signature.
If the passport bears the phrase “too young to sign,” instead of the holder’s signature, the validity of the visa will be limited to ALL SCHENGEN COUNTRIES EXCEPT DENMARK.
If the applicant does not intend to return to Namibia but either goes to his country of origin or another third country, a reasonable proof of their intention is needed e.g. Work contract in the new destination, or proof of enrolment in university or school or a rental agreement
photographs
in colour.
of the final country of destination (if needed) must be obtained before applying for a Schengen visa.
(NOTE: Non-Austrian Citizens must provide additional proof of valid Austrian residence permit (copy) is required.) the letter must clearly identify the host and the invitee (name, address, birthdate, official identification number, occupation and permanent residence); the purpose of the visit; length of stay and accommodation status (where will the invitee stay and who pays for it).
: the company in Austria or in another Schengen country should provide an invitation letter, The invitation should include clear identification of both the entity issuing it and the invited applicant; nature, duration and venue of the event; applicant´s role in the event and the link between the host and the invited applicant. . If the Austrian company is paying for the trip (accommodation, medical insurance, daily allowance, etc.) it should be confirmed by an affidavit (Generalverpflichtungserklärung or EVE). If person is attending sports events, exhibitions and fairs: presentation of a document providing the participation in the event. Official visits:
a note verbal
from the Department of Internationals Relations and Corporation or any other relevant South African Ministerial Department is required.
Children travelling alone, must submit an original letter of consent and copies of both parent’s RSA ID, both documents must be certified by a Commissioner of Oath. If the child travels with only one parent, the other parent must produce a letter of consent and a copy of his/her RSA ID. If only one parent has guardianship of the minor, the court documents stating so must be presented.
An unabridged birth certificate must be submitted for all children under 18 irrespective if they are travelling with the parents or not.
All types of visa (transit and short stay) 60 Euro payable in Rand for adults, 35 Euro for children aged 6 to11 years, kindly have the exact amount ready.
The following categories are exempt from visa fee:
The fee for the processing of visa applications for spouses of EU/EEA citizens (EEA: Norway, Iceland, Lichtenstein) and their children, under 21, may be waived under certain circumstances. Originals and copies of spouse’s EU/EEA passport, Full Marriage and Full Birth certificates need to be submitted on application. Also provide air ticket which clearly shows that you will be traveling with the EU/EEA passport holder.
Important Note: Additional documents may be requested depending on the individual case.
Visas can only be processed once all supporting documents have been received!
Au Pair Residence PermitOther
Allows young third-country nationals to live with an Austrian host family and assist with childcare and household tasks while improving language and cultural skills.
Categorised under special cases of dependent employment. Requires a formal au pair placement agreement with an approved host family. Specific age limits, duration, and pocket money requirements governed by Austrian law.
Official page ↗Long-Term Resident - EU (Daueraufenthalt - EU)Other
multiple entryvalid 1825d
EU long-term residence status for third-country nationals who have lawfully and continuously resided in Austria for at least five years, granting near-permanent settlement with full labour-market access.
Fee is €275 (~USD 303). Requires five years of continuous lawful residence, completion of Integration Agreement Module 2 (B1 German), secure fixed income, accommodation, and health insurance. Grants unrestricted access to the labour market. The residence-permit document is valid for five years and is renewable; the underlying long-term-resident status itself is of unlimited duration.
Official page ↗National Long-Stay Visa (Visa D)Other
180 daysmultiple entryup to 180d processingvalid 365d
Permits extended stays in Austria from 91 days up to 6 months, typically as a precursor to obtaining a residence permit.
Fee is €195 (~USD 215); €97 for children under 6. Cannot be extended in Austria. Stays beyond 6 months require a residence permit. Issued for one or multiple entries; exceptionally valid up to 12 months. Used as entry permit to then collect residence permit in Austria.
Official page ↗Settlement Permit - Gainful Employment Excepted (Niederlassungsbewilligung ausgenommen Erwerbstätigkeit)Retirement
multiple entry
Settlement permit for pensioners and financially self-sufficient third-country nationals who wish to reside in Austria without taking up any gainful employment.
Fee is €218 (~USD 240). Subject to an annual quota (Niederlassungsverordnung) and often heavily oversubscribed. No employment of any kind is permitted. Requires proof of secure fixed income; 2026 minimum monthly means: €2,616.78 (single), €4,128.24 (married couple), plus €403.76 per child. Also requires adequate accommodation, comprehensive health insurance, and German language pre-integration (A1).
Official page ↗Social Service Employee / Volunteer PermitOther
365 daysmultiple entryvalid 365d
Temporary residence permit for third-country nationals performing social service or voluntary work (including European Voluntary Service) in Austria.
Maximum 1 year, non-renewable. Must be placed with an approved social service organisation or European Voluntary Service programme.
Official page ↗Working Holiday Visa / PermitWorking holiday
Allows young nationals of partner countries to holiday in Austria and supplement their travel costs through incidental work or vocational training.
Available to nationals of 12 bilateral partner countries: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan, and United States. Age requirement: 18-30 years. Primary purpose must be holiday; work is secondary and incidental. Apply at the Austrian embassy/consulate of partner country. Exact duration, quota, and fees vary by bilateral agreement.
Official page ↗via VFS Global ↗Austria visa policy, fees & entry rules in full →
Austria visa for Namibian citizens - FAQ
Do Namibian citizens need a visa for Austria?
Yes - Namibian citizens must apply for a visa in advance at a Austria embassy, consulate, or official visa portal before travelling.
What documents do Namibian citizens need for Austria?
A valid passport plus the Austria document checklist for your visa type - Earth Visa lists the full required documents per visa category from the official visa application centre.
Check entry with visas you already hold →What “visa required” means →