By car in Austria

What countries can I travel to Austria by car?

The most popular routes to Austria by car from Ukraine are through:

• Hungary (via Chop - Záhony or Luzhanka - Beregsurany);
• Slovakia (via Uzhhorod - Vysne Nemecke);
• Poland and the Czech Republic (for longer routes).

In all cases, you need to cross at least two checkpoints:

- Exit from Ukraine;

- Entering the first Schengen country (it can be Slovakia, Hungary or Poland).

Documents checked at the border

1. On the Ukrainian side:

• Foreign passport (with visa or biometric).
• Car registration certificate.
• Driver's license.
• Green card.
• Power of attorney to drive the car (if the car is not yours).
• Transit visas (if necessary).

Border guards may ask about the purpose of the trip, route, addresses of residence in the EU, and availability of funds.

2. On the side of the EU (for example, Hungary or Slovakia):

• Re-checking of documents.
• Possible inspection of the cabin and trunk.
• Clarification of the purpose of the trip, availability of financial security, return ticket (or route back).
• You may be asked to present:

- Health insurance;

- Cash or bank statement;

- Confirmation of accommodation reservation.

How to cross the border: step by step

1. Before approaching the checkpoint:

• Refuel your car - the lines can be long.
• Make sure you have all your documents at hand.
• Turn off the headlights, fasten your seat belts.
• Prepare your belongings: separate documents, personal belongings, first aid kit, emergency stop sign.

2. At the Ukrainian checkpoint:

You will be given a vehicle movement ticket - it contains:

- License plate number;

- Number of passengers;

- Date and time of arrival.

Only border guards fill out the ticket, do not fill it out yourself.

• They check:

- Passports of the driver and passengers;

- Car registration;

- Green card;

- Power of attorney (if necessary);

• There may be an inspection of the car: trunk, interior, first aid kit, vest, emergency stop sign.
• After the inspection, you get a stamp in the ticket → move to the next stage.

3. At the checkpoint of the EU country:

• Scanning and visual check of passports (entry to Schengen).
• Checking for a visa or biometric passport.
• Customs inspection of the car:

- Checking the contents of the car for prohibited or restricted goods.

- Particular attention is paid to the amount of alcohol, tobacco, and food.

• They put a stamp in the passport about entering the Schengen area.

Be sure to check that the stamp is correct: sometimes it is not put or put with errors - this can cause problems when leaving or crossing the border.

What can / cannot be imported

Prohibited:

• Weapons, explosives, drugs;
• Large amounts of alcohol and tobacco;
• Products of animal origin (meat, sausage, dairy products - even homemade sandwiches);
• Non-prescription drugs (large quantities).

Not allowed:

• Personal items;
• Food in small quantities (closed packages, dry biscuits, tea, coffee, etc.);
• Cash up to €10,000 - without declaration;
• Pets - with a veterinary passport and vaccinations.

A detailed list of restrictions is available on the websites of the customs services of Slovakia, Hungary, and Austria - it is better to check them before traveling, especially regarding food and medicines.

How to avoid queues?

1. Choose smaller checkpoints (for example, Luzhanka - Beregsurany is usually faster than Chop).

2. Follow the queues online:

- dpsu.gov.ua - interactive map of queues at Ukrainian checkpoints.

- Telegram channels of border guards or driver communities.

3. Travel at night or in the morning on weekdays - the least load.

4. Prepare for a long wait: water, snacks, charged gadgets.

Practical tips

• Be polite and calm with the border guards - unnecessary arguments can delay the control.
• If you have equipment or expensive items in the car, it is better to declare them (especially if you are taking them out of Ukraine).
• Keep all documents with you, do not leave them in the car.
• After crossing the border, stop at the first gas station and buy an electronic vignette for Austrian highways (more details in a separate section).

Ukrainians can import a personal car into Austria duty-free for a temporary period of time if they stay in the country for no more than 6 months. This regime means that the car is not subject to customs clearance and can be used without customs clearance, but only under certain conditions.

Who can import a car temporarily?

• Citizens of Ukraine staying in Austria:

- As tourists;

- On short-term trips (visits, business, studying for up to 6 months);

- In the status of temporary protection (UKR) - if the car was imported before obtaining the status, it can be temporarily kept until the protection expires, but there may be nuances.

A car is considered temporarily imported if it is not used for commercial purposes and is not transferred to other persons.

What are the conditions for temporary importation?

1. The car must be:

• Registered in Ukraine;
• Suitable for operation (technically sound);
• With valid insurance (Green Card);
• With Ukrainian license plates.

2. The person importing the car:

• Must be a citizen of Ukraine;
• Be the owner of the car or have a notarized power of attorney;
• Have documents for the right to enter Austria (passport, visa or visa-free regime);
• Use the car personally, not transfer it to other persons, even relatives.

The period of authorized use of the car

If you are a tourist or temporarily staying in Austria:

• You can use the car for up to 6 months a year;
• After 6 months:

- you must take the car out of Austria;

- or customs clearance and registration in Austria.

If the car is not exported on time, it is considered a violation of the customs regime. Customs may impose a fine and demand payment of duties, VAT, and excise taxes, or even seize the car.

What is prohibited for temporary importation?

1. Transferring the car to other drivers;

2. Use the car for transportation (taxi, delivery, etc.);

3. Sell the car or leave it for use by another person;

4. Use the car as a resident (i.e., a person who has been officially residing in Austria for more than 185 days).

If you have become a resident of Austria (for example, you have formalized your residence), you are obliged to have your car customs cleared within 1 month after changing your residence status.

Car customs clearance: when is it necessary?

Customs clearance is required in the following cases:

• You are staying in Austria for more than 6 months (regardless of the purpose of your trip);
• You are obtaining a residence permit (residence permit);
• You are employed on a permanent basis or applying for permanent residence;
• You plan to leave the car in Austria for a long period of time or sell it.

The procedure for customs clearance of a car in Austria

If the car is subject to customs clearance, you need to:

1. Submit a notification to the customs office (Zollamt)

• Report the importation of the car;
• Fill out a customs declaration;
• Provide documents for the car (registration certificate, purchase agreement, etc.).

2. Pay:

• Customs duty - 10% of the car value (if the car is newer than 6 months);
• VAT - 20% (if the car is newer than 6 months or has a mileage of less than 6000 km);
• NoVA (Normverbrauchsabgabe) - fuel consumption tax (calculated individually on the website: bmf.gv.at).

3. Pass a technical inspection (Pickerl)

• The car must meet EU environmental standards;
• All technical data must comply with the standards (headlights, tires, brakes, exhaust).

4. Register a car in Austria

• Submit documents to the Vehicle Registration Office (Zulassungsstelle);
• Obtain Austrian license plates and a registration certificate (Zulassungsbescheinigung).

After registration, Ukrainian license plates and the Green Card are no longer valid - new insurance according to the Austrian standard is required.

What happens if you do not take the car out on time?

• Fines can range from €500 to several thousand euros, depending on the duration of the violation;
• In some cases, the car is confiscated, and the owner is prosecuted for violating customs laws;
• Such violations may affect future visa or residence in the EU.

Practical tips

1. Keep documents confirming the date of entry of the car (stamps in the passport, customs declaration, border ticket);

2. If you plan to stay in the EU for more than 6 months, it is better not to import the car or immediately prepare for its legalization;

3. Keep all receipts, payments, technical inspections - they may be required for customs clearance;

4. If you are planning to return to Ukraine, control the period of your car's stay in the EU to avoid fines.

Austria recognizes Ukrainian driver's licenses, but with some restrictions, depending on the length of your stay in the country, your status (tourist, temporary protection, permanent residence) and the type of driving (private, commercial). In this section, we will analyze all possible situations.

Is Ukrainian driving license recognized in Austria?

Yes, the new Ukrainian plastic driver's license is recognized in Austria:

• No translation is required if it is of an international format (English is present);
• No need to exchange it if you are temporarily staying in the country (tourist, short-term study, business trip, UKR status, etc.).

The old laminated certificate is not recognized, you need an IDP or exchange for a plastic one in Ukraine.

Status and duration of stay: when do I need to change it?

Important: if you become a resident of Austria

According to Austrian law, a person who stays in the country for more than 185 days a year is considered a resident and must:

• Exchange a foreign residence permit for an Austrian one;

• This applies even to those who have been granted a residence permit (e.g., in connection with study, work, family reunification, etc.)

The period for the exchange is 6 months from the date of acquisition of residency status. After that, the Ukrainian certificate becomes invalid in Austria.

How is the exchange of Ukrainian rights for Austrian rights carried out?

Fortunately, Ukraine is included in the list of countries whose driving licenses can be exchanged without passing exams (only theoretical or practical - you do not need to pass both).

Documents required:

• Passport or other document confirming legal residence in Austria;

• Ukrainian driver's license (plastic);
• Translation of the license (if required);
• Passport-size photo;
• Medical certificate of fitness to drive (form “ärztliches Gutachten gemäß Führerscheingesetz” - issued by a doctor in Austria);
• A document confirming residence in Austria (Meldezettel);
• Receipt of payment of the fee (depending on the region).

How much does the exchange cost?

Medical certificate - from €30 to €60;

Administrative fee - about €50-60;

Photo - €5-10.

In total, the costs may amount to €90-130.

Where to submit documents?

• At the driver's license issuance department (Führerscheinstelle), which operates at the district police department (Bezirkshauptmannschaft or Magistrat, depending on the region).
• Appointments are usually made via an online form or by phone.

What if I have temporary protection status (UKR)?

For Ukrainians with temporary protection:

The driver's license does not need to be exchanged while the UKR status is valid. This is enshrined in EU law, according to the European Parliament Resolution 2022/1280;

Ukrainian driving license is recognized until the end of temporary protection (currently at least until March 4, 2027).

But: if you receive another type of stay (work visa, permanent residence, study), the exchange becomes mandatory.

For professional drivers (taxis, trucks, buses)

Austria requires that all drivers engaged in commercial transportation have an Austrian driving license of the appropriate category. You also need to obtain a professional driving qualification (CQC - Code 95).

In this case, a Ukrainian license is not sufficient even for a temporary stay.

What happens if you do not exchange your license on time?

• After 6 months from the date of acquiring residency status, your Ukrainian license becomes invalid in Austria;
• If you are stopped by the police, it will be considered as driving without a license;
• Possible consequences:

- A fine of up to €5,000;

- Temporary seizure of the car;

- Problems with further registration;

- Loss of insurance coverage in case of an accident.

Services from Visit Ukraine

We will help you:

• Get legal advice on the status of a driver's license in Austria;
• Order translation of documents for the exchange of rights;
• Obtain health insurance for travel and long stays in the EU.

Every car entering Austria from outside the EU, including Ukraine, is required to have international civil liability insurance, i.e. a Green Card. This is a prerequisite for a car to enter the country.

What is a Green Card?

The Green Card is an international car insurance system that provides coverage for civil liability of a driver abroad.

This policy:

• Valid in European countries, including Austria;
• Protects third parties in the event of an accident caused by you (if you cause damage to another car, driver, passengers or property);
• It does not cover your own losses or car repairs (for this you need to take out additional CASCO or other insurance in Ukraine or on the spot).

Do I need a Green Card to enter Austria?

Yes, this is a mandatory document for:

• Entering by a personal car with Ukrainian registration;
• Crossing the border of any EU country;
• Drivers traveling across Europe in their own cars.

Without a Green Card, border guards have the right to refuse to let you into the EU.

What data is indicated in the Green Card?

• Data of the policyholder (full name);
• Car data (make, model, number, VIN);
• Period of validity;
• Countries of coverage (country codes are listed - AUT for Austria);
• Name of the insurance company;
• Unique policy number.

For how long is it issued?

The Green Card can be issued for:

• 15 days
• 1 month
• 3 months
• 6 months
• 1 year

Choose the term depending on the purpose of your trip. For example, for a short vacation, a policy for 15 days or a month is suitable, and for a long stay - at least 3-6 months.

Where can I get a Green Card?

It is most convenient to apply for a Green Card on our Visit Ukraine service - everything is online, without the need to go to insurance companies or stand in lines. It is fast, profitable and official.

Just a few steps and your Green Card is already in your smartphone:

1. Choose a country and a validity period;

2. Enter the car and driver's data;

3. Pay in a convenient way;

4. Receive the policy by email.

👉 Apply for a Green Card online

What happens if you drive without a Green Card?

• You will not be able to cross the border;
• In the event of an accident, you are personally responsible for all damages, including medical expenses, repairs, and legal fees;
• A fine of €500 to €5000 is possible, depending on the country;
• The car may be detained or banned from further movement.

Green card and road accidents in Austria

If you have caused an accident:

- The victims will receive compensation through your Green Card;

- You must immediately notify your insurance company in Ukraine;

- Fill out the Europrotocol with the other driver (if possible);

- If the police were called, get an official report.

If you fail to notify your insurance company in time or conceal the fact of the accident, your insurance coverage may be canceled.

Austria is one of the most car-oriented countries in Europe, but with very strict parking controls and a toll road system that you should definitely take into account when planning your route.

Toll roads: will Ukrainians need a vignette in Austria in 2026?

All autobahns (Autobahnen) and expressways (Schnellstraßen) in Austria are tolled.

To drive on them, you need to have a vignette - a sticker or an electronic version that confirms the payment of the toll.

What is a vignette?

This is a fee for using roads for cars, motorcycles, and trailers. It must be purchased before entering a toll road.

What types of vignettes are there?

The electronic vignette becomes valid on the 18th day after purchase if you are registered as a consumer (due to the right of withdrawal). For it to be valid immediately, you need to buy as a “legal entity” or at a point of sale.

Where to buy a vignette?

• At the border (gas stations or kiosks at the entrance to Austria);
• At points of sale throughout the country: Gas stations, shops, vending machines;
• Online:

- shop.asfinag.at

- ASFINAG mobile application

Electronic vignette

• It is linked to the license plate of the car;
• No need to stick anything on the windshield;
• Valid for the entire term, just like a sticker;

What happens if there is no vignette?

• A fine of €120 if paid immediately;
• If you refuse or fail to pay, the fine may increase to €300+;
• The car may be stopped and temporarily detained;
• In case of repeated violation, you may be banned from entering Austria by car.

Additional paid sections

In addition to the vignette, there are some tolls in Austria that require additional payment.

Examples of toll roads and tunnels:

Payment on the spot or via the ASFINAG app. Electronic subscription is also available (digitale Streckenmaut).

Parking in cities

Parking in Austrian cities, especially in Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, is regulated by zones and requires attention to signs.

Parking inspectors are active and issue fines on a regular basis.

Parking zones

Many cities allow free parking on weekends, but not everywhere - read the signs carefully.

How do I pay for parking?

Parking meter on the street:

- Pay in cash or by credit card;

- You get a receipt and put it under the windshield.

Parking ticket (Parkschein):

- Sold at tobacco kiosks and post offices;

- Filled in manually (date, time, duration).

Mobile applications:

- EasyPark

- Handyparken (official in Vienna)

- Parkster.

Apps are convenient: you can remotely extend or stop parking early and not overpay.

Parking costs (national average)

Fines for improper parking

Parking lots (Parkhaus)

In the center of large cities, it is convenient to use multi-level parking lots:

• Private or municipal;

• Safe;
• The cost is €2-4/hour or €20-35/day;
• Payment - through a machine at the exit (cash/card).

Search on Google Maps for “Parkhaus + city” or use the Parkopedia app.

Even in a country with a high level of safety, road accidents, breakdowns, technical malfunctions, or other unforeseen situations can occur.

If an accident occurs: an algorithm of actions

1. Stop the car

• Turn on the emergency alarm;
• Install an emergency stop sign:

- 50 m behind the car in the city;

- 150 meters behind the car on the highway or outside the city;

• Put on a reflective vest (for everyone getting out of the car).

2. Assess the situation

• If there are injured, call the emergency services immediately (phone: 112 or 133 - police);
• If everyone is alive and no one is injured, the actions depend on the circumstances:

Case A: Minor accident (no injuries, only scratches/damage to the car)

• You do not need to call the police if:

- All participants agree on the circumstances;

- You both have insurance;

- There is no damage to third parties (fence, sign, etc.).

In Austria, it is often allowed to resolve accidents on the spot through the Europrotocol.

Case B: There is a dispute, suspicion of alcohol/drugs, foreign car registration

• Be sure to call the police (133);
• Do not sign any documents without understanding - you can ask for an interpreter;
• Stay calm - aggression leads to problems.

3. Document the accident

• Take a picture:

- Both cars (with license plates);

- Damage;

- General view of the scene;

- Road signs/traffic lights/brake marks, etc.

• Exchange with the other party:

- Name, contacts;

- Car and insurance information;

- Policy number and insurance company.

4. Fill out the European protocol (Unfallbericht)

This is a standard form that every driver in Europe has or can download online. You need to specify:

• Details of both parties;
• Date, time, place of the accident;
• Description of the event;
• Scheme of the accident;
• Signatures of both participants.

If one of the participants refuses to sign, it is better to call the police.

Important numbers

If the car breaks down / does not start / punctured wheel

1. Stop the car in a safe place (roadside, exit, emergency lane)

• Switch on the hazard warning light;
• Install an emergency stop sign;
• Put on your life jacket;
• Do not leave passengers in the car if it is not safe.

2. Call for help

Tips in case of an accident or breakdown

• Always have a paper copy of the Green Card, even if it is issued electronically;
• Download the Unfallbericht form before you travel;
• Keep a receipt for the repair/evacuation costs - the insurance company may reimburse the costs (if covered);
• If the car is not running, agree with the service where it will be towed;
• Make sure that the insurance policy specifies international coverage.

Austria is a great country for road trips. Whether you arrive by plane or train, renting a car will allow you to conveniently reach small towns, mountain resorts, or lakes where public transportation is rare.

In this section, you'll find everything you need to know about renting a car in Austria: from documents to life hacks for saving money.

Who can rent a car in Austria?

Requirements for the driver:

Young drivers (under 25 years old) are often subject to an additional “Young Driver Fee” - €5-15/day.

What documents are required?

• Foreign passport (biometric or with a visa);

• Driver's license:
• Ukrainian plastic license of the new model is recognized;
• International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, but not required if you have English in your license;
• Bank card:

- To block the deposit;

- A credit card in the driver's name is often required.

Some companies do not accept debit cards for deposits.

What is included in the basic rental?

1. Liability insurance (TPL/LI) - required by law.

2. Limited or unlimited mileage - depends on the company.

3. Taxes and fees (VAT, road tax).

Types of insurance

The deductible is the part of the loss that you pay yourself.

For example, even with CDW insurance, if the deductible is €1000, you pay up to this amount out of your own pocket.

Deposit/blocking on the card

Most companies block the deposit for the duration of the rental:

• €500-1500 (depending on the car class, insurance, driver's age);
• The amount is not debited, but only blocked on the card;
• Unblocking - within 7-30 days after returning the car.

If you choose Full Insurance, the deposit may be reduced or not required at all.

Additional conditions

• Renting in one city and returning in another is possible, but with an additional fee (One-Way Fee).
• Trips outside Austria are allowed, but you need to inform us in advance, especially for Eastern European countries.
• Multiple drivers - a second person can be added to the contract (for an additional €5-10/day).

How to book a car?

1. Through international aggregators:

- Rentalcars, DiscoverCars, EconomyBookings;

2. Through the websites of the companies themselves:

- Sixt, Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Buchbinder, etc;

The earlier you book, the cheaper it is. The most expensive is on the spot at the airport without a reservation.

Fuel policy

• Full to Full (full tank upon receipt, full tank upon return) is the most profitable option;
• Full to Empty - you pay for a full tank in advance, without compensation for the remaining fuel;
• In case of an incomplete return, the company charges a fee for gasoline + service fee (€10-30).

Additional options:

1) GPS-navigator - €5-10/day (but Google Maps/Waze is usually enough);

2) Child car seat - mandatory for children under 14 years old or up to 150 cm;

3) Wi-Fi router - some companies offer it for rent;

4) Winter tires, chains - mandatory in the cold season, usually included in the rental from November to April.

What can I be fined or charged for?

• Damage to the car (scratches, dents, broken elements);
• Late return - even for 1 hour;
• Soiling of the cabin / smell of tobacco - up to €100;
• Return without fuel - fine + fuel;
• Unauthorized travel to a prohibited country - insurance cancellation.

Tips for Ukrainian drivers

1. Always check the car before and after the rental - take photos and videos;

2. Keep copies of the contract and insurance coverage;

3. Check whether the vignette is included (often yes, but not always!);

4. When booking, read the fine print - some companies add hidden fees;

5. If you are stopped by the police, show your rental agreement, passport, and driver's license.

Austria is one of the safest and most organized countries for drivers. But that's precisely why the requirements for discipline on the roads are so high. Even a minor violation can be costly.

Therefore, it is better to prepare in advance - here are useful tips that will save you money, time and nerves.

Before the trip: what to check at home

If you are traveling by your own car:

The technical condition of the car:

• Brakes, lights, tires (tread depth min. 4 mm in winter, 1.6 mm in summer);
• Spare tire or repair kit;
• Windshield washer (non-freezing in winter);

Documents:

• Passport with visa/no visa;
• Driver's license;
• Car registration certificate;
• Green card (insurance);
• Power of attorney (if the car is not in your name);

Mandatory equipment in the car:

• First aid kit;
• Reflective vest (for all passengers!);
• Emergency stop sign;
• Fire extinguisher (recommended);
• A set of spare lamps (optional, but desirable).

The vest must be worn before getting out of the car in case of an accident or a stop - a fine for violation.

On the road: what to look for

Navigation

The most convenient apps:

• Google Maps - detailed routes with traffic information;
• Waze - with warnings about police and cameras;
• ASFINAG Unterwegs - the official app for paying for roads, parking lots, and getting information;
• Parkopedia - search for parking lots;
• Moovit / ÖBB Scotty - for planning trips in cities (if you leave your car).

Vignette

A vignette is required for driving on highways (sticker or electronic).

You can buy it:

• At gas stations near the border;
• Online: https://shop.asfinag.at/

Prices (2026):

• 10 days - €12.40;
• 2 months - €31.10;
• 1 year - €103.80.

The penalty for not having a vignette is up to €300 or even €500 if you refuse to pay on the spot.

Parking

• In cities, there is paid parking (zoned):

- “Kurzparkzone” - a short-term zone (usually 1-3 hours);

- Cost: from €1.1 to €2.6/hour;

- Payment via:

1) SMS-parking (for Austrian numbers);

2) Parking meters (cash, card);

3) Apps: Handyparken, Parkster, EasyPark;

• Free zones - marked with “gratis” or “ohne Gebühr” signs.

In unforeseen situations

Where to call:

If your car breaks down, choose a safe place, turn on the emergency lights, put on a vest, and call for technical assistance.

Payment for services

1. Parking meters, gas stations, vending machines with vignettes accept only euros;

2. Card payments are widely used in cities;

3. Many terminals do not accept cash > €50;

4. Some car washes/parking lots require cash in coins - it's better to have it with you.

Useful little things to consider

• Avoid parking in residents' spaces (“Anrainer”) - a fine of up to €90;
• Do not use your phone while driving - only a headset/Bluetooth;
• Do not leave valuables in the car - even in the trunk safe;
• In mountainous areas, snow chains are sometimes required - especially in winter;
• Alcohol level: up to 0.5‰ is allowed, but for beginners (up to 2 years of experience) - 0.1‰;
• For violations - instant fines on the spot (€50-300 and more).

Traveling by car is about freedom, flexibility, and incredible experiences. But to ensure that the road leaves only pleasant memories, it is important to be prepared for any situation. This is where we, the Visit Ukraine team, are always in touch to make your trip comfortable, safe, and confident.

1. Apply for a Green Card online

International insurance Green Card is mandatory for crossing the border by car.

We help you to get it quickly in a few clicks:

- online, without queues;

- with the possibility of an electronic or physical copy;

- with coverage throughout Europe.

Without a Green Card, you simply will not be allowed to leave Ukraine.

2. Medical insurance for a trip to Austria

An extremely important thing, especially for drivers and passengers:

• Covers the treatment of injuries after an accident;
• Access to medical facilities in the EU;
• 24/7 support in Ukrainian;

Apply for insurance at the link.

3. Legal assistance abroad

Do not get confused if:

• Got into an accident;
• Have a conflict with the rental company;
• Received fines, notices from the police or court;
• You have issues with customs or insurance companies.

Our lawyers provide legal advice in:

- in Ukrainian and English;

- online or by phone;

- promptly, without unnecessary bureaucracy.