Migration to Austria - Benefits and Opportunities, Business, Lifestyle and How to Become a Citizen

Germany or Austria: Which Country to Choose for Relocation?

Germany and Austria are more than just neighboring countries. Austria was once part of Germany, both countries speak German and use the euro. At first glance, few people can tell a German from an Austrian, but in fact, there are notable differences between them.

Let’s take a closer look at the differences and which country is more in line with our mentality.

Geographical Location

Germany is located in central Europe. The northern part of the country is flat, while the southern part (closer to Switzerland and Austria) is mountainous. For centuries, the Germans developed the plains, eventually creating autobahns.

Germany is often associated with high-quality cars, and as a result, the country is covered with a vast network of high-speed roads.

Austria, on the other hand, is 70% mountainous. The Neusiedler See, the lowest point in the country, is still 115 meters above sea level. This is why Austria is famous for its ski resorts—there are 57 of them. Industrial development isn’t as extensive as in Germany, but Austria has a much smaller population.

By the way, Austrian universities are in a class of their own. They are considered among the best in Europe, producing highly qualified and in-demand specialists every year.

A Brief Historical Overview

The first German state was formed as an empire, uniting many lands under one ruler. This was known as a Reich.

The word Austria (Österreich) comes from the German language, meaning "eastern empire." Austrian lands were once the eastern frontier of the German state, with Slavic lands just beyond, where today Slovaks, Slovenes, and Croats live. Austrians adopted much of the Slavic mentality, which is why Austria feels culturally closer to our people than Germany. Our clients confirm this too.

Since 1955, Austria has maintained military neutrality. Austria is the only EU country that has not joined NATO and has no plans to participate in any conflicts.

Is the German Language the Same in Austria and Germany?

Don’t call Austrians Germans—they might take offense. Surprisingly, the German language is different in these two countries.

Each region in Germany has its dialect, but the official language is Hochdeutsch. In Austria, they use the Viennese dialect of German, known as Wienerisch.

Let’s look at some examples. In Germany, the word for "bag" is Paket, while in Austria it’s Sackl. In Germany, horseradish is Meerrettich, but in Austria, it’s Kren. This difference is due to the stronger influence of Slavic cultures on Austria.

Business Opportunities

According to the Doing Business 2019 ranking, Germany is in 22nd place, while Austria is in 27th. However, Austria has lower unemployment, higher salaries, and better pensions.

Let’s take a closer look at the economic indicators of both countries:

In Austria, it’s much more favorable for entrepreneurs since the corporate tax is lower.

Lifestyle

It’s well known that Germans live by a strict schedule. They are punctual, disciplined, and love order. It’s said that Germans save their smiles for special occasions. Everything is straightforward and precise, as if measured by a ruler.

Shops and cafes in Germany have limited hours, and some may even be closed on weekends. If a business partner invites you to lunch, everyone pays for themselves. In Germany, being late is considered rude, while Austrians are more lenient about punctuality.

Austrians love spending time in cafes with a cup of coffee. These establishments are not for business meetings but for enjoying time with friends. People meet to socialize, read newspapers, or play chess.

Austria’s coffee culture comes from their former neighbors, the Ottoman Turks, who brought coffee directly from Arabia. That’s how the famous Viennese coffee was born.

Where Is It Easier to Get Citizenship?

Germany has strict requirements. The main thing is that you will have to give up your original citizenship since Germany does not allow dual citizenship.

Moreover, to get German citizenship, you must live there for at least eight years. Some can obtain a passport earlier, including:

• Ethnic Germans,
• Ethnic Jews,
• Those who lost their citizenship due to persecution or political emigration during Hitler's rule (1933-1945).

To live in Germany for eight years, you must have a valid reason, such as obtaining a residence permit, which then needs to be renewed. You would also need to start a business—an LLC with a minimum capital of €25,000.

In contrast, Austria’s government is more lenient in matters of immigration. For example, Austria offers around 10 types of residence permits, each with its own set of opportunities.

Every year, Austria allocates quotas for residence permits for financially independent individuals. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources, buy health insurance, and secure housing. They must also have a clean legal record.

Conclusion

We’ve outlined the main differences in the mentality of Austrians and Germans. There are more, as the pace and style of life can vary even within each country.

Study the country carefully before moving, as you and your family should feel comfortable there. Don’t miss our blog articles, where we publish interesting information about life in various countries and much more.

Immigration to Austria in 2020

Austria is a beautiful European country, home to mountains, glaciers, and lakes. It boasts one of the highest living standards in the EU, making it a prestigious destination for immigrants, particularly from "third world" countries. However, obtaining citizenship in Austria is not easy; it’s a prize that requires effort.

Let’s explore the main paths to Austrian citizenship.

Paths to Austrian Citizenship

To obtain Austrian citizenship quickly and directly, you need a strong reason. Austria does not offer investment programs like those in the Caribbean countries. Wealthy individuals can only obtain residence permits for money, which we’ll discuss shortly. As for non-investment routes, here are the circumstances under which you can become an Austrian citizen:

• Marrying an Austrian passport holder. The only important condition is that the marriage must be genuine. If it’s proven to be a sham, the document will be annulled. Social services monitor these marriages carefully. If everything is legitimate, the foreign spouse receives a residence permit, and after five years, full Austrian citizenship.
• If a child is adopted by an Austrian citizen (or couple). Children under 14 are granted citizenship especially quickly.
• Naturalization. This includes various cases, such as unique contributions to the country or long-term residence for work. These cases are rare and are individually reviewed by a special government commission.

But the most common path to Austrian citizenship is through investment. This doesn’t grant direct citizenship but allows a foreigner to obtain a residence permit, which can lead to citizenship over time.

Austrian Citizenship by Investment

Austria does not have a specific investment program, but wealthy individuals can take advantage of loopholes in the Nationality Act. Through these provisions, one can obtain Austrian residency for “significant financial contributions.” However, due to Austria's reputation, only ultra-wealthy applicants can afford it. Legal fees, taxes, and additional costs alone amount to half a million euros.

There are two options for investment:

1. Make a non-refundable contribution to cultural, sports, or educational development. The amount typically ranges between €2 million and €4 million, depending on the region and program.
2. Invest at least €10 million in a business in Austria, with the condition of creating new jobs for Austrians. The business must also be profitable, which benefits both the investor and the country.

Meeting these conditions only leads to obtaining residency status, which must be regularly renewed. After five years of residence, permanent residency can be obtained, and full citizenship is possible after 5-7 more years.

Even then, the government reserves the right to deny citizenship. Each case is reviewed individually.

In Conclusion

Despite the challenges, Austrian citizenship is highly valuable. As an Austrian citizen, you gain all the rights of an EU citizen, including the ability to live, work, and do business in any EU country. Austria offers some of the highest living standards in the world.

Some sources suggest that the Austrian passport is the most expensive in the world. Although the government doesn’t disclose statistics, the growing number of investors seeking Austrian citizenship each year suggests high demand.

The specialists at the licensed agency GARANT.in can explain all the nuances of the program. You can book a consultation, and we also provide legal and organizational support throughout the entire immigration process.