Moving to Austria from the UK is an exciting step, but it also involves navigating a number of customs regulations. Whether you’re moving for work, to study, to be closer to family or simply because you’re craving a change of scenery, and it’s hard to beat Austrian scenery, you need to pay attention to customs. As the UK is no longer part of the EU, British movers are now treated as arriving from a non-EU country. This means stricter import rules apply when you’re shipping household belongings.
The good news is that most used personal possessions and household goods can be imported into Austria duty-free, as long as certain conditions are met. Typically, to benefit from this duty-free importation, you must have lived outside Austria for at least 12 months, the goods must be for personal use, and you will need to provide supporting documentation, such as a detailed inventory list and proof of residence in Austria.
However, there are also clear restrictions on certain items, including food, weapons, plants and other regulated goods. It’s the case when you move to a lot of countries, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that there are rules about what you can and can’t bring into Austria. Understanding these requirements in advance can make your move smoother and help you to avoid delays or unexpected costs at Austrian customs.
Key Customs and Import Considerations in Austria
Austria has become an increasingly popular destination for British expats, and that’s largely thanks to its high quality of life, strong economy and stunning natural landscapes. From the historic streets of Vienna to the picturesque Alpine regions, Austria offers a balance of exciting city living and outdoor adventure. It’s easy to see the appeal.
There are a number of reasons behind Brits moving to Austria. Many people move to Austria for career opportunities, a slower pace of life or to have access to impressive skiing and hiking right on their doorstep. For others, the reason is career or education driven, or because they want to be closer to family. Some people move to Austria simply because they want to live somewhere new, with a new culture to immerse themselves in. Whatever the reason, moving to Austria is exciting.
But, before settling into your new Austrian home, it’s important to understand the customs regulations that apply when bringing your belongings from the UK, particularly now that the UK is outside the EU. The more you know, the simpler the process will be.
Duty-Free Eligibility
Usually, personal household belongings can be imported into Austria without paying customs duties, but only if you meet specific criteria. To qualify for duty-free entry:
- You must have lived outside Austria for at least 12 consecutive months before the move.
- The items must be used for household goods intended for personal use, not resale.
- You must be moving your primary residence to Austria.
Goods that don’t meet these conditions may be subject to duties or taxes upon arrival, which will increase your moving costs.
Essential Documentation
Austrian customs authorities require several documents to process your shipment, and ensuring everything is prepared before your move will help to prevent delays. This means having:
- A detailed and signed inventory list of all items being shipped, ideally written or translated into German.
- A copy of your passport.
- Proof of residency in Austria, such as a rental agreement or property purchase contract.
- Proof that you lived abroad for the required 12-month period.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Austria has strict import regulations covering a wide range of goods. Some items are completely banned, whereas others require permits or are limited in quantity. If you are unsure whether an item can be shipped, it’s always best to check before packing. You don’t want to turn up, only to realise you’ve packed a handful of things you’re not allowed to take into the country. This will delay your move in a big way.
Moving Pets to Austria
Many families relocating to Austria from the UK choose to bring their pets along – understandably so, they’re part of the family too – but the process requires careful planning. After all, you can’t just add a pet to your removals to Austria plans for household goods, clothes and personal possessions. Pets entering Austria must typically have a pet passport or official veterinary certificate, a microchip or clearly readable tattoo and a valid rabies vaccination. Depending on the circumstances, additional health documentation may also be required.
Vehicle Importation
You can import a personal vehicle when moving to Austria, but there are additional requirements to consider. Imported vehicles must be reported to the local Austrian tax office, meet Austrian registration requirements, and you might incur import duties or taxes, depending on the vehicle and circumstances. Usually, vehicles must also undergo inspection and be registered with Austrian authorities before they can legally be driven in the country.
Prohibited and Restricted Goods at Austrian Customs
Once you’ve decided on the best time to move to Austria, you need to determine what you can and can’t take with you. Austria enforces strict customs rules designed to protect public safety, wildlife and intellectual property. This means that certain goods are completely banned from entry.
Prohibited Goods
The following items are not allowed to be imported into Austria:
- Illegal drugs and narcotics
- Unlicensed weapons, ammunition, explosives and fireworks
- Counterfeit or pirated goods, such as imitation designer clothing or fake electronics
- Extremist or prohibited propaganda, including materials banned under Austrian law
- Products made from endangered species, including ivory, certain animal skins and protected plants.
Attempting to import these items can lead to confiscation, fines or legal consequences.
Restricted Goods
Some goods can be brought into Austria, but are subject to strict limits or require official permits, such as:
- Alcohol and tobacco products entering from outside the EU
- Prescription medications are usually limited to personal quantities
- Large cash amounts, with €10,000 or more, requiring declaration
- Pets, which must meet vaccination and documentation requirements
- Plants and plant products, which may require a plant health certificate
- Certain military or dual-use items, which require special import licences
As regulations can change, it’s always best to confirm requirements before shipping restricted goods. Otherwise, you could run into issues when you arrive.
Heading to Austria? Your Duty-Free Allowances
When you’re entering Austria from a non-EU country – which now includes the UK – certain goods can be brought in duty-free within specific limits. However, goods exceeding these allowances must be declared and may be subject to import taxes. Duty-free allowances for Brits moving to Austria typically include:
- Up to €430 per traveller when arriving by air or sea
- Up to €300 per traveller when entering by land
- €150 limit for travellers under 15
There are also tobacco allowances, and you can take one of the following:
- 200 cigarettes
- 100 cigarillos
- 50 cigars
- 250g of tobacco
As well as value and tobacco limits, Austrian customs also have alcohol allowances. You can bring one of the following into the country duty-free:
- 1 litre of spirits over 22% alcohol
- 2 litres of fortified or sparkling wine
On top of this, you can also bring 4 litres of still wine and 16 litres of beer.
Tips to Make the Austrian Customs Process Simpler
Before you can jump into enjoying the landscape, history and popular food in Austria, you need to navigate the customs process. International moves can involve a lot of paperwork and regulations, but with the right preparation, the Austrian customs process can be much more straightforward.
Prepare Your Documentation Early
One of the most common reasons for customs delays is incomplete or missing paperwork. Make sure you gather all of the required documents well in advance of your moving date. This usually includes your passport, proof of Austrian residence – such as a rental agreement or property contract – and a signed inventory list of the items being shipped. Having these documents ready before your shipment leaves allows the customs clearance process to begin quickly once the goods arrive in Austria. You don’t want to be hanging around because you don’t have the right paperwork.
Create a Clear and Detailed Inventory
A detailed inventory is essential for Austrian customs clearance. This means each box should be clearly labelled and listed with a general description of its contents. Avoid vague descriptions like “miscellaneous items” and instead provide clear categories such as “kitchen utensils,” “books” or “clothing.” It’s also a good idea to translate the inventory into German, if you can, as this makes the review process easier for customs officials.
Avoid Packing Restricted Items
Before packing, check that none of your belongings fall into Austria’s restricted or prohibited categories. Items such as large quantities of alcohol, firearms, certain plant products or animal-derived goods can cause issues during customs inspections. If you’re unsure about an item, it is best to check before including it in your shipment. Otherwise, your shipment is likely to be delayed. You might also find yourself faced with fines and legal issues.
Keep Important Items With You
There are some essential items that are better carried with you, rather than packed in your shipment. Important documents, passports, valuable jewellery, laptops and medications should travel with you, as this ensures they remain accessible during your move. You don’t know when you’ll need any of these items, and you don’t want to be delayed because you have to unpack a dozen boxes to find what you’re looking for. This also reduces the risk of delays if your shipment is held temporarily during customs checks.
Check Your Shipment Timing Carefully
Timing is hugely important when it comes to avoiding complications with Austrian customs. In an ideal world, your household goods should arrive around the same time as your move, or shortly after you set up your full-time residency. This ensures you’re not without the things you need for any longer than necessary. If your shipment arrives too early – for example, before your residency documentation is finalised – it might be held at customs until the correct paperwork is provided. Planning your moving schedule carefully can help to ensure everything arrives when it should.
Keep Proof That Your Items Are Used
Austria’s duty-free allowance for household goods generally applies to used personal belongings, not new purchases. If customs officials think certain items are new, they might apply import duties or taxes. To avoid this, it’s a good idea to make it clear that items have been used and avoid packing newly purchased goods in their original packaging. If you are bringing newer items, keeping receipts or proof of ownership can sometimes help to clarify that they are part of your personal household belongings, and not items you’re using for resale.
Work With an Experienced International Removals Company
One of the most effective ways to simplify the customs process is to work with a removals company, particularly that specialises in international moves. Experienced movers understand Austrian import regulations, know which documents are required and can guide you through the entire process. This keeps things as simple and straightforward as possible, and it provides peace of mind. You can relax, knowing a team of experts are handling things.
Ready to Kickstart Your Move to Austria?
There’s no denying the appeal of moving to Austria. But, for a lot of people, there’s a fair amount of planning involved. Moving from the UK to another country involves more planning than a typical domestic move – you’re not just moving a town or two over, you’re moving countries – particularly when it comes to customs regulations. By understanding duty-free eligibility, preparing the correct documentation and being aware of restricted items, you can avoid delays and ensure your belongings arrive safely.
This is why working with an experienced international removals company is key. Having a team of experts, like United International Removals, on hand to help is often the easiest way to navigate the process. You can sit back and relax, knowing that your move is in safe hands, and focus on the excitement of starting a new life in Austria. Get in touch to find out more.