How to Book an Austria Visa Appointment?

Planning a trip to Austria for tourism? Before packing your bags, you must learn how to book an Austria visa appointment. The purpose of an Austrian visa appointment is to submit your application, provide biometric data, and present all necessary documents to the Austrian consulate.

Without this step, your visa process won’t begin. If you’re applying for a Schengen visa, the appointment ensures your eligibility is assessed correctly. It’s a crucial first move in gaining legal entry into Austria. Let’s learn about this process in detail.

How to Schedule an Austria Visa Appointment? 

If you’re planning a trip to Austria, scheduling your visa appointment is a crucial step. Austria tourist visa applications are generally handled by VFS Global in many countries, including India.

You can schedule your appointment either online through the VFS portal or offline by visiting the nearest visa center, depending on your location and consulate requirements. Below are the step-by-step guides tailored for the Tourist Visa process.

Online Steps 

1. 1. Visit the Official VFS Global Website
      Go to https://visa.vfsglobal.com, select your country of residence, and choose Austria as your destination. Click on Apply for a Visa and follow the Austria-specific guidelines.
      
   2. Identify Your Visa Type
      Under the Austria section, select Tourist Visa (Schengen Short-Stay). Review the eligibility criteria, required documents for the Austria visa appointment, visa fees, and estimated processing time.
      
   3. Download and Complete the Application Form
      You can either fill it out digitally and print it or fill it out manually in capital letters. Ensure all details are accurate and match your travel documents.
      
   4. Create an Account and Book an Appointment
      

1. Pay the Visa Fee
   If required, you can pay online while booking the appointment, or choose to pay at the Visa Application Centre using a card or cash.
   
2. Print Appointment Confirmation
   Once booked, you’ll receive an email with your appointment details and instructions. Bring a printed copy with you on the appointment day.
3. Attend the Appointment
   On the scheduled date, visit the Visa Application Centre with your completed form, passport, documents, and appointment letter. Your biometric data (fingerprints and photo) will be collected.
4. Track Your Application
   Use the tracking number provided in your invoice to check your visa status online or opt for SMS updates.
   

Suggested Read: Austria Visa for Indians

Offline Steps

1. 1. Find the Nearest Austria Visa Application Centre or Embassy
      Visit the Austrian Embassy or Consulate website for your country to identify the location of authorized VFS centres or embassies handling Austria visas.
   2. Call or Email to Confirm Walk-in
      Some centers allow walk-ins or accept appointment requests by phone/email, particularly in remote areas or where VFS is not involved.
   3. Visit in Person for Form Collection or Submission
      Visit the visa office or designated centre in person to:

1. Get Appointment Confirmation
   If an in-person appointment is needed for biometrics or document checks, the center will provide you with an appointment slip or scheduled date.
2. Pay the Visa Fee at the Centre
   Payment can usually be made by cash or card during your visit. Retain the invoice for tracking.
3. Submit Documents and Biometric Data
   On your appointment day, submit your documents, biometric details, and passport.
4. Track and Collect Your Passport
   After processing, you can collect your passport personally with an ID or authorize a close relative or company representative as per VFS guidelines.

Suggested Read: Austria Visa Extension for Indians

Top 5 Locations for Austria Visa Appointment in India

If you’re applying for an Austria tourist visa from India, there are five major cities with VFS Global Visa Application Centres where you can submit your documents and provide biometrics.

These centres are authorized by the Austrian Embassy in New Delhi and handle a high volume of Schengen visa applications:

1. New Delhi

• Address: Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Mezzanine Level, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001
• Phone: 022-6786 6008
• Email ID: [email protected]
• Service Fees: INR 1,942/- (inclusive of GST)
• Website:VFS Global – New Delhi 
• Timings: 
  • Submission: Monday to Friday, 09:00 AM – 04:30 PM
  • Passport Collection: Monday to Friday, 09:00 AM – 04:30 PM

2. Mumbai

• Address: 1st Floor, Trade Centre, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (E), Mumbai – 400051
• Phone: 022-6786 6008
• Email ID: [email protected]
• Website:VFS Global – Mumbai 
• Timings: 
  • Submission: Monday to Friday, 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM
  • Passport Collection: Monday to Friday, 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM

3. Chennai

• Address: Ramee Mall, 2nd Floor, No. 365, Anna Salai, Teynampet, Chennai – 600018
• Phone: 022-6786 6008
• Email ID: [email protected]
• Website:VFS Global – Chennai 
• Timings: 
  • Submission: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM
  • Passport Collection: Monday to Friday, 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM

4. Kolkata

• Address: Rene Tower, Building No. 1842, Rajdanga Main Road, Rajdanga, Near Geetanjali Stadium, Kolkata – 700107
• Phone: 022-6786 6008
• Email ID: [email protected]
• Website:VFS Global – Kolkata 
• Timings: 
  • Submission: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM
  • Passport Collection: Monday to Friday, 09:00 AM – 03:00 PM

5. Bangalore

• Address: Gopalan Innovation Mall, 22, Bannerghatta Main Road, Sarakki Industrial Layout, 3rd Phase, J.P. Nagar, Bangalore – 560076
• Phone: 022-6786 6008
• Email ID: [email protected]
• Service Fees: INR 1,942/- (inclusive of GST)
• Website:VFS Global – Bangalore 
• Timings: 
  • Submission: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM
  • Passport Collection: Monday to Friday, 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM

Suggested Read: Austria Visa Appeal For Indians

What is the Purpose of Austria Tourist Visa Appointment?

The Austria tourist visa appointment is a crucial step in ensuring your application meets all the necessary criteria for approval. Here’s a breakdown of its specific purposes:

Purpose	Details
Verification of Documents	Authorities check your passport, travel plans, accommodation, insurance, and financial proof to ensure all documents are complete and correct.
Biometrics Collection	Your fingerprints and photo are taken and stored in the European Visa Information System (VIS) to help with identity checks and security.
Personal Interview	You may be asked questions about your trip, financial situation, and ties to your country to prove you plan to return after visiting Austria.
Application Submission	You officially submit your visa application, pay the fee, and start the visa process. Your documents will be reviewed, and you’ll receive updates on the result.

Documents Required for the Austria Tourist Visa Appointment

To schedule an Austria tourist visa appointment, make sure you have the following documents ready for submission:

• Completed Visa Application Form: Fill out the application form accurately online or at the relevant consulate.
• Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned return date.
• Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos as per the specifications.
• Travel Itinerary: Provide a detailed itinerary, including your planned activities and destinations during your stay.
• Proof of Accommodation: Show confirmation of your hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Austria.
• Travel Insurance: Provide proof of travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including repatriation, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
• Financial Proof: Submit documents such as bank statements or a letter from your sponsor to show sufficient funds to cover your trip expenses.
• Supporting Documents: Include a cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip and your travel plans in detail. You may also need a letter of invitation (if applicable), proof of employment, and copies of any previous Schengen visas, if relevant.

Suggested Read: Austria Visa Photo Size Requirement & Specification Guide

Photograph Requirements for All Types of Visas for Austria 

Size:

• The photograph must be 35mm in width and 45mm in height.
• The head should occupy 70-80% of the image, with a head height between 32mm and 36mm.
• The eye position should be between 28mm and 35mm from the bottom of the photo.

Background:

• A plain, light-colored background (white or off-white) is required.
• No patterns, shadows, or objects should appear in the background.

Expression:

• The subject should have a neutral expression with both eyes open.
• No smiling or showing teeth is allowed.
• No sunglasses, head coverings (unless for religious or medical reasons), or other distractions should be present.

Note: For the Austria Tourist Visa, ensure the photo is recent (taken within the last six months), clear, sharp, and printed on normal photographic paper. Non-compliance with these requirements may result in visa rejection.

Suggested Read: How to Check Austria Visa Status in India

Austria Tourist Visa Fees for Indians

Fee Category	Tourist Visa Fee (INR)
Adult Visa	INR 8,740
Children (6-12 yrs)	INR 4,370
Child (below 6 yrs)	FREE

Note: Fees are subject to change as per the exchange rate and may vary each month. VFS Service Charges and VISA fees are non-refundable in case of a visa refusal. Payments can be made via Cash, Visa/MasterCard, Rupay, or UPI.

How Much is the Waiting Time of the Austria Visa Appointment?

The average waiting time for an appointment can range from 5 to 20 working days during off-peak times. However, certain factors may affect your visa appointment date and processing time:

Peak Seasons	Waiting times are typically longer during peak seasons, including summer (May to August) and winter (November to December).
Type of Visa	The waiting time for a tourist visa can be longer, especially during holidays when many people apply to visit Austria.   On the other hand, business visas may have shorter processing times depending on the urgency and the applicant’s profile.
Location	The waiting time also varies by location. Major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru have higher demand, resulting in longer appointment waiting times. Smaller cities may have less demand, but availability could be limited.
General Estimate	The average waiting time for an appointment can range from 5 to 20 working days during off-peak times.   However, during peak season, it may extend up to 4-6 weeks. Therefore, it is recommended that you schedule your appointment at least 2-3 months in advance during busy periods.

Suggested Read: Reasons for Austria Visa Rejection for Indian Nationals

Tips for a Successful Austria Visa Interview

• Be Prepared: Thoroughly understand your travel plans. Be ready to explain your travel dates, accommodation details, and itinerary in Austria. Keep the necessary documents handy, such as hotel bookings, flight reservations, and travel insurance.
• Be Honest: Provide truthful and consistent answers about your background, employment, and travel plans. Visa officers assess your credibility, and any false information can lead to visa rejection.
• Dress Appropriately: Formal or semi-formal attire is recommended. Dressing professionally gives a good impression and reflects your seriousness about the application.
• Be Punctual: Arriving early for the interview is essential to avoid any last-minute stress. Being on time shows respect for the process and ensures you can handle any unexpected delays.
• Practice Common Questions: Prepare for common interview questions like: “Why do you want to visit Austria?” or “How will you support yourself financially during your stay?” Anticipating these questions will help you respond confidently.
• Stay Calm: The interview might be stressful, but staying calm and composed is important. Take your time to answer questions thoughtfully. A calm demeanor shows confidence and helps convey your intentions.

How to Track Austria Visa from India?

• Online Portal: VFS Global offers an online tracking system for visa applications. You can track the status of your Austria visa application via the VFS Global tracking portal. When submitting the application, enter your application number and last name to receive real-time updates.
• Application Number: You will receive an application number upon submitting your visa application. This unique reference number is crucial for tracking the progress of your visa processing. Ensure you have it saved to easily check the status.
• Direct Inquiry: If you face difficulties or require more specific details about your application status, contact the VFS Global center in India. Use the contact details in your application receipt or visit their official website for assistance. This is useful if there are any delays or complications regarding your visa application.

FAQs

Is it mandatory to visit the centre personally? Can I send a representative to the application centre on my behalf?

For an Austria visa appointment, applicants must attend personally for biometric collection. However, if you are unable to attend, a representative may submit documents on your behalf, but they cannot complete biometric collection for you.

How early should I apply for an Austria visa appointment?

It is advisable to apply for an Austria visa appointment at least 2-3 months before your planned travel date. Visa processing times can vary, especially during peak seasons.

What is the waiting time for an Austria visa appointment?

The waiting time for an Austrian visa appointment for Indians depends on the location and time of year. During peak seasons, it may take 3-6 weeks to get an appointment, while off-peak times could have shorter wait times.

What are the questions I can expect during my Austria visa interview?

In your Austria visa interview, you can expect questions about your travel plans, financial stability, accommodation details, and your ties to your home country. Be prepared to answer confidently and provide supporting documents.

Is there any dress code for the Austria visa appointment?

There is no strict dress code for the Austria visa appointment, but applicants are encouraged to dress neatly and professionally. A tidy appearance reflects positively during your appointment.

What steps can I take to avoid cancellation of my Austria visa appointment?

To avoid cancellation, ensure that all documents are submitted correctly and on time, the visa fee is paid, and you attend the appointment at the scheduled time. Inform the centre promptly if you need to reschedule.

Can I reschedule my Austria visa appointment?

Yes, you can reschedule your Austria visa appointment by visiting the VFS Global portal or contacting the visa centre. Ensure that you reschedule well in advance to avoid any issues with your visa processing.

What is the process for requesting an expedited visa appointment?

To request an expedited visa appointment for Austria, you must submit proof of urgency (e.g., medical emergencies or urgent business needs) along with your visa application. Check with the VFS Global or the Austrian embassy for specific guidelines.

Do babies need separate appointments for Austria visa applications?

Yes, babies and children need separate appointments for Austria visa applications, though biometric collection may not be required for infants. Always confirm with the consulate for specific guidelines.

What happens if I arrive late for an Austria visa appointment in India?

If you arrive late for your Austria visa appointment, you may not be allowed to attend. It’s essential to arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow for security checks and document verification.

What is the easiest way to get an Austria visa slot for an interview?

To secure the best available slot, regularly check the VFS Global website for any newly available appointment slots, especially during off-peak hours. Additionally, using early booking or expedited services can increase your chances.

Is an Austria biometric appointment mandatory?

Yes, biometric data collection is mandatory for Austria visa appointments. This includes fingerprinting and a digital photograph, part of the application process for security and identification purposes.