Austria is a landlocked country located in Central Europe. It is bordered by eight countries: Germany to the northwest, the Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia to the northeast, Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west. The country’s capital and largest city is Vienna.
Some key points about Austria:
History: Austria has a rich history dating back to the time of the Celts and the Roman Empire. It was once a significant part of the powerful Habsburg Monarchy, which ruled over a vast empire for several centuries.
Culture: Austria has made significant contributions to various fields, including music, art, and literature. It is particularly renowned for its classical music composers such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Johann Strauss.
Language: The official language of Austria is German, and the majority of the population speaks it as their first language.
Government: Austria is a federal parliamentary republic, and its political system is characterized by a President as the head of state and a Chancellor as the head of government.
Economy: Austria has a highly developed and prosperous economy, with a focus on industries like machinery, metallurgy, chemicals, and tourism. It is known for its high standard of living and social welfare system.
Tourism: Austria is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its stunning landscapes, historic cities, and ski resorts. The Austrian Alps offer excellent opportunities for skiing and other winter sports.
Cuisine: Austrian cuisine is influenced by its neighboring countries and is famous for dishes like Wiener Schnitzel (breaded and fried veal cutlet) and Sachertorte (chocolate cake).
Education: Austria has a well-established education system, and education is compulsory for children between the ages of six and fifteen. The country is home to several renowned universities and institutions for higher education.
Famous Landmarks: Austria is home to numerous famous landmarks and cultural sites, including Schönbrunn Palace, the historic center of Vienna (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the Salzburg Old Town.
Neutrality: Austria is known for its long-standing policy of neutrality, which means it does not participate in military alliances or engage in armed conflicts.
Visa Requirements:
- Application form Duly filled in and signed twice by the applicant In case of minor(s) form (s) should be signed by all legal guardians.
- 1 passport picture according to ICAO criteria.
- Valid travel document Not older than 10 years, must contain at least two empty pages and be valid for at least three months after travel has been completed; any previous travel documents.
- Fingerprints will be taken age 12 and above
- Copies of any previous Schengen Visas, respectively information/refusal of the
relevant embassies concerning application stamps in the passport - If applicable: Copy of the National ID Card “(NIC)“
- Current extract of the Family Registration Certificate (incl. translation)
- Return flight ticket
- Travel medical insurance: coverage of not less than Euros 30.000, valid for the entire period of travel valid in Schengen territory
- Proof of accommodation for the whole period of travel (in case of internet bookings a full and legible booking confirmation is required)
- Proof of financial means Account Statements (current account, savings account, etc.) for the last 6 months (incl. bank address and phone number), proof of income for the last 6 months, tax returns (NTM and FBR) for the last 3 years, proof of pension payments and other regular sources of income.
- Minors (under the age of 18): Original and copy of the Birth Certificate If applicable: Parent’s Marriage Certificate, notarized permission of the legal guardian (who will not accompany the minor on this trip) incl. Picture ID, custody decree, copy of the entry permit of the accompanying guardian if the applications are not submitted together.
- Third country nationals residing in Pakistan resp. Afghanistan: Proof of legal residence in Pakistan or Afghanistan (visa, residence permit, proof of accreditation, POC, etc.)
Note: Visa approval is typically determined by the immigration or consular authorities of the country you are applying to. Visa Fee is non-refundable in any case.