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Here you can find the legal basics regarding asylum in Austria

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE INFORMATION IS PARTLY OUTDATED!!! WE ARE WORKING ON IT...

Asylum Law 2005

The revised Asylum Law has become effective as of 1 January 2006. Applications filed before that date are being dealt with according to the Asylum Law 1997.

In the following we want to answer frequently asked questions on the asylum process 2006.

Some of the informations can be out of date, because of the new asylum laws 2009

1. Asylum process – what does it mean?

In the asylum process it is examined whether an asylum seeker gets refugee status in Austria.

2. Where can I apply for asylum in Austria?

In Austria only.

3. How is the asylum process carried out?

The procedure has two steps:
admission to submit your claim;
examination of your asylum claim.

4. Erstaufnahmestelle - What does it mean?

First accommodation upon arrival, provided by the State. Start of the 2-step-asylum process.

5. What will be examined?

Within three days you will be invited to a first interview regarding the reasons for fleeing your country and your escape route.

6. How is the interview carried out?

Your first interview is crucial. What you do not mention now, will be difficult to explain at a later date (credibility).

7. When and how will I be informed of the outcome?

After a few days you receive a first answer whether your asylum claim falls under the competence of Austria, or of another state.

8. What happens if Austria is not your country of asylum?

You will be notified to leave the country (expulsion) and you are detained pending deportation (schubhaft).

9. What does it mean to receive the Applicant Registration Card (white card)?

It is an ID card. It means that your claim is treated by the Austrian state. You are allowed to stay pending the decision. It is not a guarantee to receive asylum status in this country.

10. What happens, if your claim is rejected because asylum is not possible?

In this case you have a right to appeal within 14 days.

11. What does subsidiary protection mean (Asylum law para 8 )?

If the reasons for fleeing your country do not qualify you for refugee status, but the situation in your country makes your return impossible for the time being, you are granted subsidiary protection, which is limited for one year and can be extended.

12. May I work as asylum seeker?

In principle: No.