In the following chapters, you can read about the different residence permits that enable you to live and work in Austria as an artist or cultural worker. Here is an overview:

Please note that most residence permits are only issued for a certain period. You should therefore apply for an extension in good time (i.e. before your permit expires).

You can only stay in Austria for the purpose for which your residence permit was issued. If you wish to stay in Austria for another reason, you must apply for a change of purpose.

To do: 

  • If you have already got a residence permit and want to stay longer, you must renew it before it expires. You can submit the application at the earliest 3 months before your original residence permit expires.
  • If you wish to stay in Austria for another reason, you must submit a change of purpose application. To do this, you must prove that you fulfil the requirements for the other desired residence permit. Your application must be submitted to the competent settlement authority, which depends on your place of residence. Follow this link to see which authority is responsible in your case.