Visa & Residence permit
Residence permit for students ("Aufenthaltsbewilligung - Student")
If you have been admitted to a study programme at the University of Graz, you can apply for a “Residence Permit – Student” (AB-Student). This card is typically valid for 12 months and can be renewed, provided all requirements are met.
After successfully completing your studies with a Residence Permit – Student, you can apply for an extension that allows you to remain in Austria for up to 12 months to search for employment. This extension is intended for job seeking and supports your transition from studies to the labor market.
We recommend that students submit their initial residence permit application abroad at the competent Austrian embassy or consulate. This helps avoid waiting times in Austria and usually ensures a smoother entry and start of studies.
Here you will find the documents required for the application process
As a rule, the initial application should be submitted abroad at the Austrian embassy or consulate.
In certain cases, it is possible to apply in Austria, for example, for nationals who are allowed to enter visa-free. Please note that all requirements must be met (complete documentation, lawful stay during processing), and approval is at the discretion of the competent authority. We recommend seeking individual advice in advance.
Yes, for the residence permit student you must take out health insurance that covers all risks in Austria. In most cases this requires you to conclude an insurance in Austria, for example the self-insurance for students at ÖGK. Further information
Note: you may need additional travel health insurance for the visa.
Depending on your age, you must be able to prove at least around 8,700 euros (under 24 years) or 15,700 euros (over 24 years) for 12 months in advance. This amount can increase, for example when you arrive with children and/or a married partner. You can find the required minimum amount per month on this page. The University of Graz does currently not award scholarships to finance living expenses for international students.
You can find the required documents on this page.
Depending on the country where the documents were issued, they must be legalized before you submit your application. For some countries, no legalization is required. Please submit documents only once they have been properly legalized and - if necessary - translated into the correct language.
Important info on legalization and translation:
What is the apostille?
An apostille is an official endorsement (often placed as a sticker on the back of the original document). If your documents require an apostille, please check in the issuing country which authority provides it (e.g., Ministry of Education, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, court).
What is the full diplomatic legalization?
For full diplomatic legalization, your document is first legalized in the issuing country and then additionally authenticated (“over-legalized”) by the competent Austrian representation (embassy/consulate). The over-legalization can only be carried out by the Austrian representation responsible for the respective country. This process can take several months, so please allow sufficient time.
