Austria: Authorities maintain restrictions imposed to limit the spread of COVID-19 as of May 7 /update 35

Authorities in Austria maintain COVID-19-related restrictions as of May 7; possible easing of restrictions from May 19.

Event

Officials maintain measures imposed to stem the spread of COVID-19 as of May 7. Travel to Austria is generally only permitted from EEA-associated countries, as well as Australia, Finland, Iceland, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and Vatican City. Exceptions are in place for nationals and residents of the permitted countries arriving from third countries, as well as health workers, freight workers, diplomats, individuals in transit, and those traveling for urgent or essential reasons decided on a case-by-case basis.

International arrivals from designated "risk areas" must produce a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test taken within the 72 hours prior to arrival, or an antigen test taken within 48 hours prior to arrival. Such travelers must also self-isolate for 10 days on arrival, though they can end self-isolation early by taking an additional COVID-19 test after five days. Cross-border commuters and those in transit are exempt from this requirement; business travelers are also exempt from the quarantine requirement if they can provide proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. As of May 7, all countries are considered risk areas, with the exception of Australia, Iceland, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and the Vatican City. All travelers, regardless of point of origin, must register with authorities prior to arrival; the required Pre-Travel Clearance form is available online.

Authorities have suspended flights from Brazil, India, and South Africa. Austrian and EU/EEA nationals and residents arriving from these countries must produce a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within the 72 hours prior to arrival. Cargo, repatriation, humanitarian, and medevac flights are exempt.

Additional restrictions may be imposed by local authorities based on localized case numbers. Authorities could amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Domestic Restrictions
Authorities are maintaining nationwide domestic restrictions as of May 7. A 20:00-06:00 curfew remains in effect until May 19, during which residents may only leave their homes for limited essential purposes. Outside of curfew hours, up to four adults from a maximum of two different households are permitted to meet socially. Nonessential retailers are permitted to operate 06:00-19:00 subject to strict social distancing protocols. In addition, individuals must keep at least two meters (6.5 feet) away from members of other households. The use of FFP2 or equivalent facemasks is required on public transport and in supermarkets and pharmacies; fabric coverings are not permitted. Hotels remain closed to leisure travelers and catering facilities may offer takeout services only until at least May 19.

Authorities have slightly eased COVID-19 restrictions in Vorarlberg, where restaurants are permitted to offer onsite services.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.