How long does the residence permit take?

6–10 weeks from a complete file. Apply on arrival; the D visa keeps you legal during processing.

Can I work on a student permit?

EU/EEA/Swiss: yes, no limit. Non-EU: up to 20 h/week during term; the employer files an *Anzeige der Beschäftigung* with the AMS — no separate work permit needed.

Proof of funds is below the threshold — what now?

A scholarship letter, parental sponsorship + sponsor statements, or a frozen-account top-up before the appointment all count. Discuss in advance with the OeAD adviser.

Anmeldung deadline missed by a week — am I in trouble?

Late Meldezettel triggers a fine up to €726 but no immigration consequences. File the form anyway; you do not want it left open.

Visa & residence

Who needs a visa?

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens — no visa, no permit. Just register your address (Anmeldung) within three days at any Magistratisches Bezirksamt, then file an Anmeldebescheinigung at MA 35 within four months. Fee €15, slip mailed in two weeks.

All other nationals apply for a Visa D at the Austrian embassy before travel, then convert it to a Residence Permit – Student (Aufenthaltsbewilligung Studierender) within four months of arrival.

Documents — student permit

Admission letter from a Vienna university or Fachhochschule
Passport valid for at least 12 more months
Proof of accommodation: dorm contract, Mietvertrag, or sub-lease
Proof of funds — ≈ €700/month under-24, ≈ €1 200/month 24+; for 12 months on a frozen account, blocked deposit, or scholarship letter
Health insurance valid in Austria (€72/month student rate via ÖGK)
Two passport photos (35×45 mm, < 6 months old)
Birth certificate + apostille; certified DE/EN translation if neither

Where & when

MA 35 — Dresdner Straße 93, 1200 Wien. Online appointment only via start.wien.gv.at. First issue ≈ €160; yearly extensions ≈ €80. Processing 6–10 weeks from a complete file. Apply on day one — the D visa keeps you legal in the meantime.

Never overstay. One day past expiry triggers a re-entry ban. If MA 35 is delayed, ask for a Bestätigung über die rechtzeitige Antragstellung; keep it on your phone.

Latest forms and fees: bmi.gv.at and oead.at.