Austria To Launch Permit For Cross-Border Commuters In December

Austria will introduce a new work permit in December 2025, targeting individuals who live in neighbouring countries but commute regularly for work.

The initiative aims to make cross-border employment more structured while helping Austria address labour shortages in key regions.

Starting December 1, 2025, the “Frontier Worker Permit” will be available to workers residing in countries bordering Austria—such as Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic—who travel into Austria daily or weekly for their jobs.

These frontier or cross-border workers maintain their primary residence abroad while working in Austria. Under the new permit, they can formalise this arrangement, ensuring Austria’s labour needs are met responsibly without requiring long-term residence.

Applicants must have a long-term or permanent right of residence in a country bordering Austria.

Have unrestricted access to that country’s labour market.

Be employed in an Austrian district directly bordering their home country.

Cross the border regularly for work.

Before approval, Austria’s Public Employment Service (AMS) will conduct a labour market test to ensure no suitable local candidates are available, prioritising Austrian workers.

Family members of frontier workers will not automatically receive residence rights; anyone wishing to live in Austria must apply separately for a residence permit.