Includes steps involved in establishing a local office.
Last Published: 7/9/2019

The Austrian government’s official investment promotion agency, “Austrian Business Agency (ABA)” https://investinaustria.at offers complimentary information and expert advise on all subjects related to opening an office or a production facility in Austria. In addition, each of the Austrian provinces maintain official investment offices.  ABA’s America’s Director Doris Dobida can be reached at: 

d.dobida@aba.gv.at

The Austrian government has progressed somewhat in streamlining its complex and cumbersome requirements for business licenses and permits.  According to the World Bank, 21 days are required to start a business in Austria, almost double the EU average.  The Austrian government established a "one-stop shop" for business permits, but this does not facilitate services related to securing plant construction or building permits.  All licensed businesses in Austria (including foreign-owned enterprises) must be members of Austria's Economic Chamber (WKO – Wirtschaftskammer Österreich) and pay compulsory dues.

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.