Austria: Authorities tighten domestic COVID-19 measures as of Jan. 11 /update 55

Austria to tighten domestic COVID-19 measures as of Jan. 11; international entry restrictions remain in place.

Event

Officials will tighten domestic COVID-19 measures effective Jan. 11 due to rising infections. The requirement for FFP2-standard facemasks will be expanded to include outdoor areas where social distancing of 2 meters (6 feet) cannot be maintained; this requirement was already in place for all enclosed public spaces. Furthermore, enforcement of the requirement for proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19 for all non-essential businesses and services will be stepped up.

Domestic Measures

In addition to the measures noted above, a lockdown for unvaccinated persons remains in place; such individuals are only allowed to leave their accommodation for essential purposes. Proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19 is required for access to non-essential businesses and services. Attendance at gatherings is restricted. Individuals are advised to work from home where possible; attendance in person requires proof of vaccination or recovery or a recent negative COVID-19 test. Catering establishments must close at 22:00.

International Travel Restrictions

All arrivals must present proof of vaccination or recovery, and a negative PCR test result no older than 72 hours, or proof of a vaccine booster. Those without proof of a vaccine booster shot must submit to an additional PCR test on arrival and remain in quarantine until a negative result is confirmed.

Citizens and persons residing in Austria and EU/EEA citizens and persons residing or habitually residing in an EU/EEA country without proof of vaccination or recovery are allowed to enter. However, they must register upon entry and quarantine for 10 days. The quarantine can end after five days on confirmation of a negative PCR test result.

Denmark, Netherlands, Norway, the UK, Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe are currently classified as virus variant countries. Entry from these countries is generally prohibited except for limited essential purposes; any permitted travelers arriving from, or having visited, a virus-variant area in the last 10 days must complete an online pre-travel clearance form within 72 hours before entry and self-isolate for 10 days; travelers may end the quarantine period early by obtaining a negative PCR result on the fifth day after entry. Individuals with proof of having received a booster. Individuals with proof of having received a booster vaccine in addition to a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before entry are exempt from these restrictions. A ban on passenger flights landing from Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe remains in place.

Children of any vaccination status up to the age of 17 can enter Austria without need for quarantine if accompanied by a fully vaccinated or recently recovered adult. However, those aged 12 to 17 must show proof of a negative PCR test, full vaccination, or recent recovery on arrival.

To access the pre-travel clearance form and details on exceptions, click here.

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.