Art thrives on international contacts, cross-border exchange and cultural encounter. And even though efficient means of communication exist in today’s world, it is still often necessary for artists to move from one place to another in person.
Austria’s cultural policy supports and promotes the international exchange of creative artists. Like all other travellers, artists must comply with the applicable regulations governing entry, residence and/ or settlement as well as employment.
In cooperation with the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs (now Federal Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs), the Federal Ministry of the Interior, the Federal Ministry for Labour, Social Affairs and Consumer Protection, the Austrian UNESCO Commission, and the interest representations for the arts, the Federal Ministry for Education, Art and Culture (now Federal Chancellery) has compiled a guide that summarises all regulations and issues relevant for artistic work. It is designed to provide information for creative artists coming to Austria, as well as for organisers of cultural events who extend invitations to Austria, and support them in realising their artistic projects.
The guide covers the following subjects:
- Entry and stay for a duration of up to 6 months,
- Residence of more than six months,
- Employment.
Moreover, the Austrian representations abroad and the competent departments in the Austrian ministries can provide detailed information upon individual inquiry.