Doing Business with Austria

Here’s a guide on how to export goods to Austria:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand Austria’s demand for your products and local market trends.

2. Understand Export Regulations

   • Familiarize yourself with EU and Austrian import regulations, including tariffs and standards.

3. Product Classification

   • Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your product.

4. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

5. Find a Local Partner

   • Identify a local distributor or agent to assist with logistics and regulations.

6. Arrange Shipping and Logistics

   • Choose a reliable logistics provider and manage transportation and insurance.

7. Customs Clearance

   • Ensure compliance with customs procedures and work with your local partner for smooth clearance.

8. Secure Payment and Financing

   • Establish a secure payment method and consider export insurance or financing options.

Key Contacts

• Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO)
  • Website: WKO
• Austria’s Customs Authority
  • Website: BMF Customs
• Advantage Austria (Austrian Trade Commission)
  • Website: Advantage Austria

Here’s a guide on how to import goods into Austria:

1. Research Import Regulations

   • Understand Austria’s and the EU’s import laws and any restrictions on your products.

2. Obtain Necessary Licenses

   • Determine if your products require specific import licenses or permits.

3. Register for an EORI Number

   • Ensure your business has an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number for customs.

4. Classify Your Goods

   • Use the Harmonized System (HS) code to classify your goods correctly.

5. Find a Customs Broker

   • Hire a licensed customs broker to assist with documentation and regulations.

6. Prepare Required Documentation

   • Gather necessary documents: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin.

7. Ensure Compliance with Standards

   • Meet EU standards and labeling requirements for your products.

8. Arrange Shipping and Logistics

   • Choose a reliable logistics provider and arrange for transportation and insurance.

9. Customs Clearance

   • Work with your customs broker to ensure smooth customs clearance.

10. Payment of Duties and Taxes

    • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties, VAT, and fees.

Key Contacts

• Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO)
  • Website: WKO
• Austria’s Customs Authority
  • Website: BMF Customs
• Advantage Austria (Austrian Trade Commission)
  • Website: Advantage Austria

Here’s a guide on how to incorporate a company in Austria:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of entity (e.g., GmbH, AG).

2. Select a Company Name

   • Ensure the name is available and complies with Austrian naming rules.

3. Prepare Founding Documents

   • Draft articles of association and other necessary documents.

4. Open a Bank Account

   • Deposit the minimum share capital (e.g., €35,000 for a GmbH).

5. Notarize Documents

   • Have founding documents notarized by an Austrian notary.

6. Register with the Commercial Register

   • Submit your application to the local court for registration.
   • Cost: Approximately €1,000 to €3,000, including notary and registration fees.

7. Obtain a Tax Identification Number

   • Register with the tax office to receive a tax number.

8. Register for Social Security

   • Register with the local social security authority for employee contributions.

9. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Apply for any industry-specific licenses or permits.

Key Contacts

• Austrian Business Agency
  • Website: ABA
• Austria’s Commercial Register
  • Website: USP.gv.at
• Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO)
  • Website: WKO

Here’s a guide on how to set up a manufacturing plant in Austria:

1. Conduct Feasibility Study

   • Analyze market demand, costs, and location benefits.

2. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of business entity (e.g., GmbH, AG).

3. Register the Company

   • Follow incorporation steps: register with the Austrian Commercial Register.

4. Select a Location

   • Choose a strategic location considering logistics, resources, and workforce availability.

5. Acquire Land and Permits

   • Purchase or lease land and obtain necessary construction and environmental permits.

6. Design and Build the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors to design and construct the plant.

7. Install Machinery and Equipment

   • Purchase and set up manufacturing equipment.

8. Hire and Train Employees

   • Recruit skilled labor and provide necessary training.

9. Ensure Compliance with Regulations

   • Adhere to safety, environmental, and labor regulations.

10. Register with Relevant Authorities

    • Obtain operational licenses and register with local councils.

Key Contacts

• Austrian Business Agency
  • Website: ABA
• Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO)
  • Website: WKO
• Austria’s Environmental Agency
  • Website: Environment Agency

Here’s a guide on how to register a trademark in Austria:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Use the Austrian Patent Office database to check for existing trademarks and avoid conflicts.

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Gather details about your trademark: logo, name, class of goods/services.

3. Submit Your Application

   • File your application online through the Austrian Patent Office.
   • Cost: Approximately €300 for one class.

4. Examination Process

   • The Patent Office examines the application for compliance and potential conflicts.

5. Publication and Opposition

   • If approved, your trademark is published for opposition.

6. Opposition Period

   • Wait for a 3-month period for any oppositions. If opposed, legal proceedings may follow.

7. Registration and Issuance

   • If no opposition or once resolved, the trademark is registered, and you receive a certificate.

8. Renewal

   • Trademarks are valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.

Key Contacts

• Austrian Patent Office
  • Website: Austrian Patent Office

Here’s a guide on resolving commercial disputes in Austria:

1. Negotiation

   • Attempt to resolve the dispute through direct negotiation between the parties.

2. Mediation

   • Engage a mediator to facilitate discussions and reach a voluntary agreement. Mediation is often quicker and less expensive than court proceedings.

3. Arbitration

   • If agreed upon, use arbitration for a binding resolution. Check if your contract includes an arbitration clause. Costs vary depending on the arbitrator and complexity.

4. File a Lawsuit

   • If other methods fail, file a lawsuit in the appropriate court (e.g., district courts for smaller disputes, higher courts for larger ones).

5. Court Proceedings

   • Present evidence and arguments before the court. This process can be lengthy and costly, with legal fees depending on the case complexity.

6. Judgment

   • The court issues a judgment which can be enforced legally.

7. Appeal

   • If necessary, appeal the decision to a higher court.

Costs

• Mediation and Arbitration Fees: Vary based on the mediator/arbitrator and complexity.
• Legal Fees: Depend on the lawyer and duration of the case.
• Court Fees: Typically a filing fee based on the claim amount.

Key Contacts

• Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO)
  • Website: WKO
• Austrian Arbitration Association (ArbAUT)
  • Website: ArbAUT
• Austrian Ministry of Justice
  • Website: Ministry of Justice

Here’s an overview of key factors related to doing business in Austria:

Social Factors

• Language: German is the official language. English is widely spoken, especially in business.
• Business Culture: Emphasis on punctuality, formality, and building trustful relationships.

Cultural Factors

• Work Ethic: Austrians value precision, reliability, and quality.
• Communication Style: Direct and formal, with respect for hierarchy.

Political Factors

• Government Structure: Federal parliamentary republic.
• Stability: Austria is politically stable with a strong democratic framework.

Economic Factors

• Foreign Exchange: Austria uses the Euro (EUR). Exchange rates can impact international trade.
• Inflation: Moderate inflation rates can affect business costs.

Legal and Regulatory Environment

• Rule of Law: Strong legal system with transparent regulatory processes.
• Intellectual Property: Robust protection for patents, trademarks, and copyrights.

Infrastructure and Market Access

• Infrastructure: Well-developed transport and communication networks.
• Trade Agreements: Austria benefits from EU trade agreements, enhancing market access.

Relevant URLs

• Austrian Business Agency (ABA): ABA
• Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO): WKO
• Austrian Ministry of Economy: Ministry of Economy