Overview
Austria is part of the EU. The asylum laws are similar to other EU countries, but the details are different. Laws also change often, especially since 2015.
This page gives you basic information about asylum in Austria. It is here to help you prepare. Remember: You are not alone. There are people and groups who can support you. Try to always check with local legal aid organisations for the most recent advice. You can also contact us if you have specific questions.
Chances of asylum
• Your chance for asylum depends on your personal history and how well you prepare your case.
• Austria follows the Dublin III system and makes deportations.
• Exception: No deportations to Greece.
• Warning: Even if you already got asylum in Greece, Austria may still try to send you back there.
Police controls
• Police controls happen often, especially in:
o Border areas
o Trains
o Streets and plazas (public places)
o Train stations and other traffic hotspots
• Even with many controls, some people still manage to pass through Austria to other countries.
Applying for asylum
• You can apply at any police station in Austria. Say clearly: “Ich möchte Asyl” (I want asylum).
• First, they will check your case under Dublin III.
• Then you will be sent to a reception facility in Austria.
• Depending on where you apply, you may first have to go to a central police station for your first interview.
• While you wait there, you cannot move freely.
• A first decision should be given within 48 hours.
Reception centers
• Every federal state (Bundesland) in Austria has its own reception center.
• People are sent there according to a quota system.
• You usually cannot choose where you go.
• Only very strong reasons can change this (for example: close family, serious sickness).
How long does it take?
• The asylum process can take a long time. Sometimes months, sometimes years.
• It depends on your personal story and how the authorities treat your case.
• To be strong in your case:
o Prepare your interviews carefully.
o Collect evidence and material that supports your story.
• This preparation is part of building your support system.
Legal help and support
• You will get legal help from the BBU (Bundesagentur für Betreuungs- und Unterstützungsleistung).
• But be careful: The BBU works for the state. The quality of help can be different, depending on the person.
• If you feel the BBU is not helping you enough, contact an independent legal aid organisation. They can stand by your side.
• Important: You should still contact the BBU (their contact details are on an info sheet you receive).
o If you do not contact them, you may have no lawyer in your interview.
o This can be dangerous for your asylum case.
• The best is to combine both: contact the BBU and also reach out to independent organisations. This way you are not alone, and you have people on your side.
Remember: The asylum process in Austria can be long and difficult, but you do not have to go through it alone. Build your support system: ask for help, speak to legal aid, and connect with others. There are people and groups here to support you.