Which travel documents do I need to travel to Austria?

Your holiday to Austria is fast approaching. The accommodation has been booked, your skis or walking boots are ready, and you can't wait to see that first view of the mountains. But as you make your final preparations, you suddenly wonder: have I actually sorted out all the paperwork? Do I have my ID with me? And what about my health insurance card, the vignette or the papers for the dog?

It is precisely in the last few weeks before departure that these kinds of questions become important. In addition, it can cause you a lot of stress if you accidentally forget a document. Think of delays at the border, problems in the event of an accident or hassle when travelling with children or a pet. Whether you are travelling by car or plane, without the right documents you can easily run into problems.

In this blog, we will help you on your way with a clear checklist of all the travel documents you need for Austria. From ID to European health insurance card, from driving licence to consent form for minors. This way, you can leave well prepared and be sure that you haven't forgotten anything important. This blog was written by René Schwarte, initiator and co-owner of Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu.

In short: what travel documents do I need to travel to Austria?

You need a valid travel document for everyone, such as a passport or European ID card. Children must also have their own ID. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and your driving licence are also important, of course.

Why is it important to be well prepared for your trip?

Many people think that an ID card is sufficient and see the rest as extra baggage. But we know from experience that being well prepared is essential for a comfortable and safe trip. Accidents can happen, especially in the mountains. With the right documents (EHIC, insurance, permits), you can prevent a small problem from turning into something big. Whether you are going skiing, hiking or travelling with a group, a little extra preparation can save you a lot of stress during your holiday.

What documents are important when travelling to Austria?

When travelling to Austria, there are many documents to consider, but the following documents are essential and should not be overlooked:

Identification

Make sure you have a valid passport or European ID card for everyone (including your children). The following applies to every child: they must have their own ID or passport; since 2012, it is no longer permitted to add a child to a parent's ID or passport.

Driving licence (and car details)

If you are driving yourself, bring your valid EU driving licence. A Dutch or Belgian driving licence is valid throughout the EU. Don't forget your vehicle registration certificate and green card. Also remember the compulsory toll sticker for motorways in Austria.

Health insurance card (EHIC or GHIC)

Always bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you. This is often found on the back of your health insurance card and shows that you are insured. With the EHIC, you will be reimbursed for necessary medical care.

For UK citizens:
The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) lets you get necessary state healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA) The UK GHIC has replaced the existing European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
More information: Healthcare Abroad - NHS.uk

Travel insurance (and cancellation insurance)

Good travel insurance covers costs that are not reimbursed by the EHIC, such as mountain rescues or transport to hospital. Loss or theft of luggage is also covered. When going on a winter sports holiday, it is best to take out a policy with winter sports cover, so that you are insured against all risks.

Consent form for children

If your minor child is travelling without the other parent, or with an adult who is not the parent, you will need written consent. Request a standard consent form in advance.

Pets

Are you bringing a dog or cat with you? Make sure your animal has a European pet passport, is identified with a microchip and has a valid rabies vaccination. The microchip and vaccination must be mentioned in the passport. A microchip alone is not enough and you need the passport to cross the border. Before departure, also check other rules for pets, such as any worming treatments or requirements in transit countries.

Toll sticker

A toll sticker is mandatory for driving on Austrian motorways. You can buy this in advance online (digital sticker) or as a sticker at petrol stations just before the border. If you drive without a toll sticker, you risk a heavy fine.

Declaration for medication use

If you use medication that falls under the Opium Act (such as strong painkillers or ADHD medication), you will need an official medical certificate to be allowed to take it with you. Arrange this in good time via your GP and the CAK (for Dutch nationals) or your health insurance fund (for Belgian nationals).

Confirmation of your accommodation + contact details

Print or save a confirmation of your booked accommodation. In case of delays, border controls or emergencies, it is useful to have the address and telephone number of your accommodation to hand.

Do I need a passport or ID card for Austria?

Yes. To enter Austria, you must be able to present a valid travel document. As an EU member state, Austria accepts EU identity cards. You may also travel with a passport. Both must be valid (for example, at least two months after your return date). The same applies to children: they must have their own passport or ID card.

Is my health insurance valid in Austria?

Yes, basic health insurance is also valid in Austria. It is important that you have your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you. With this card, you will receive the same necessary medical care in Austria as residents there. The EHIC does not cover all costs, so supplementary travel insurance is useful for this. UK citizens: ask at your HRS-office

Is travel insurance compulsory for Austria?

Travel insurance is not compulsory in Austria. However, we strongly recommend it, especially for winter sports. Without insurance, you may face high costs. Suppose you fall and have to be rescued from the slopes by helicopter; that can easily cost thousands of pounds. With good travel insurance, you are covered for these kinds of costs. Loss of luggage and hospital visits in a private clinic are also covered.

Travelling to Austria: how to ensure you don't forget any important documents

Is your trip to Austria just around the corner? Use this checklist to make sure you don't forget anything:

Check the validity of all passports, ID cards and driving licences six weeks before departure. Request new documents well in advance if anything is about to expire.
Write down or store securely: numbers and contact details of your health and travel insurance. Take photos or scans of important documents (ID, EHIC(GHIC), insurance policies) for emergencies.
Print or download a copy of your EHIC card and insurance policies. Keep these with your (digital) travel documents.
Make sure you also have a toll sticker if you are travelling by car. You can stick this on your windscreen or arrange it digitally. Without a sticker, you cannot drive on the motorways and you risk fines.
Complete this checklist before you leave:
- Valid ID card or passport (for everyone)
- Driving licence and vehicle registration certificate (if travelling by car)
- European Health Insurance Card or health insurance card (EHIC/GHIC)
- Travel insurance + cancellation insurance, if applicable
- Consent form for minors (if applicable)
- European pet passport + vaccination certificate (if you are bringing your pet)
Are you travelling with a group? Make sure everyone takes care of their own paperwork.

Conclusion: why you want to be well prepared

If you are well prepared and have collected all the necessary documents, you will cross the border without any problems and be insured for medical care in Austria. Not only will you avoid high fines or unexpected costs, but you will also be able to get in your car or on the plane with peace of mind. Now your winter sports holiday or walking holiday can really begin!

Are you preparing for your trip? Then read our blog ‘Ski Holiday Packing List: the ultimate checklist to avoid packing stress’.

My name is René Schwarte, founder and co-owner of Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu. With many years of experience in holiday home rentals and deep familiarity with international guest expectations, I understand what makes a vacation truly enjoyable.

Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu offers a wide selection of carefully curated holiday homes, chalets and group accommodations throughout Austria. Whether you're travelling as a couple or with a group of up to 50 people – we help you find the right place with ease.

Our website is available in English, German and Dutch. We speak your language and are happy to assist you with any questions or special requests.

Need help?
Feel free to get in touch – we're here to make your Austrian holiday unforgettable.

Phone: +31854016545 Mail: info@Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu

René Schwarte

Co-OWNER