United Kingdom Visa RequirementsFor Austria passport holders
Austrian passport holders can travel to the UK visa-free for up to 180 days, but the UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is mandatory before travel. Cost: GBP 16.
Great news! Austria passport holders can enter United Kingdom without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 180 days.
Apply for the UK ETA before travel at gov.uk/apply-for-an-eta. Cost: GBP 16 per person. Valid for 2 years or until passport expiry, covering multiple visits up to 6 months each. Apply online via the UK ETA app or website; approval usually takes minutes to hours. You cannot apply at the border; obtain the ETA before departure. UK days do NOT count toward Schengen 90-in-180 limit.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Austria to United Kingdom: What You Need to Know
The United Kingdom left the EU (Brexit) in January 2021, ending free movement for EU citizens including Austrians. Austrians can still visit visa-free for up to 180 days, but the UK introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for European visitors from January 2025. The ETA is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization linked to your passport, valid for 2 years or until passport expiry. The UK is the most popular English-speaking destination for Austrians, with London, Edinburgh, and the English countryside among top draws.
How to Get There
Austrian Airlines, British Airways, and easyJet fly Vienna (VIE) to London Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW) directly in about 2.5 hours. Edinburgh (EDI) and Manchester (MAN) are served seasonally.
Money & Banking
The UK uses the Pound Sterling (GBP). Cards and contactless are universally accepted; London is nearly cashless. Cash is rarely needed. London is expensive: comparable to or exceeding Vienna. Outside London prices drop significantly. Tipping 10-15% is standard at restaurants. ATMs are widely available; look for the Link symbol.
Practical Tips
London Heathrow (LHR) is the main entry airport; the Heathrow Express connects to central London in 15 minutes. The UK drives on the left. Oyster cards or contactless bank cards work on all London public transport. The UK uses British English and imperial measurements. Tipping 10-15% at sit-down restaurants is standard. Britain's museums (British Museum, National Gallery, V and A) are free. Book popular attractions like the Tower of London and Stonehenge online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Austrians need a visa to visit the UK after Brexit?
No. Austrian passport holders can visit the UK visa-free for up to 180 days. However, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) costing GBP 16 is mandatory before travel. The ETA is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization.
What is the UK ETA and how do I apply?
The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a pre-travel authorization required for visa-exempt visitors from January 2025. Apply at gov.uk/apply-for-an-eta or via the UK ETA app before departure. Cost: GBP 16. Valid 2 years or until passport expiry, covering multiple visits of up to 6 months each. Approval is usually instant.
Can I use my Austrian national ID card to enter the UK?
No. Since Brexit, the UK does not accept EU national ID cards. Austrian citizens must present a valid Austrian passport at the UK border. The ETA is linked to your passport; using a different passport than the one on your ETA will cause problems.
Does time in the UK count toward the Schengen 90-day limit?
No. The UK left the Schengen Area with Brexit. Days spent in the UK do not count toward the Schengen 90-in-180 day limit. This is useful for Austrians who want to combine a UK trip with Schengen travel.
How do I get from Vienna to London?
Direct flights from Vienna (VIE) to London Heathrow (LHR) take approximately 2.5 hours. Austrian Airlines and British Airways operate this route. Gatwick (LGW) is served by easyJet. London City Airport (LCY) is convenient for central London.
Is the UK expensive for Austrian tourists?
London is very expensive, comparable to or exceeding Vienna for accommodation and dining. Outside London, prices drop significantly. The pound sterling (GBP) has generally been stronger than the euro, adding to costs. Budget London travel is possible with hostels and free museum visits.
What are the must-see highlights in the UK beyond London?
Edinburgh (Scotland) is an outstanding city; the Highlands and the Isle of Skye are spectacular. The Cotswolds offer quintessential English countryside. Bath has Roman heritage and Georgian architecture. York is medieval and charming. The Lake District and Snowdonia in Wales offer excellent hiking accessible from Manchester or Cardiff.