Austria: Authorities tighten domestic COVID-19 restrictions as of Nov. 8 /update 47

Austria tightens domestic COVID-19 restrictions as of Nov. 8; international entry restrictions remain the same.

Event

Authorities have tightened domestic restrictions imposed to combat the spread of COVID-19 amid rising infection rates. As of Nov. 8, only certificates of vaccination and recovery from COVID-19 will be accepted to grant the holder access to catering establishments, private cultural venues such as cinemas and theaters, close-contact services, sports and leisure facilities, and events of more than 25 people; previously, recent PCR or antigen COVID-19 tests were acceptable. A transition phase will be in place until Dec. 6 during which proof of one dose of the vaccine in conjunction with a recent PCR test will be acceptable for access to these services.

FFP2 masks are mandatory for all businesses and services which do not require proof of vaccination or recovery, including public transport, retail, and public cultural venues such as museums and libraries. Local authorities have powers to introduce tougher measures if they see fit; tighter measures are in place in some areas as a result.

International Entry Restrictions
As of Nov. 8, Austria classifies the following as COVID-19 low-risk locations: EU and EEA-associated countries, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Jordan, Kuwait, Macau, New Zealand, Qatar, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Uruguay, and Vietnam. Travelers from low-risk countries are permitted entry if they can present a certificate of full vaccination against or recovery from COVID-19, a negative PCR test taken in the 72 hours prior to entry, or a negative antigen test taken in the 48 hours prior to entry. Travelers unable to meet these requirements must pre-register with authorities and take a test on arrival.

Nonessential travel is permitted from all other countries. Travelers must present proof of full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19, otherwise, they must pre-register with authorities, present a negative COVID-19 test taken in the 72 hours prior to arrival for PCR tests and 48 hours prior to arrival for antigen tests, and isolate for 10 days on arrival. Isolation can be ended early following a negative test on day five.

For the required Pre-Travel Clearance form and details on exceptions, click here.

Local authorities could amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

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.