Investment framework and opportunities in Austria
Procedures Relative to Foreign Investment
- Freedom of Establishment
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There are no specific legal, practical or market access restrictions on foreign investment. Nevertheless, a national security investment screening process is in force for potential foreign acquisitions of at least 25% of a company considered essential to national security or which is involved in the provision of public services such as energy, water, telecommunications, and education.
- Acquisition of Holdings
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A majority holding interest in the capital of a local company is legal in Austria. However, a local managing director must be appointed to any newly established enterprise.
- Obligation to Declare
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In order to be able to run a company in Austria, professional ability proofs are required in nearly all activities, listed in a regulatory test: Gewerbeordnung, renewed by the law number 194 of 1994.
- Competent Organisation For the Declaration
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Austrian Economic Chamber (WKO)
- Requests For Specific Authorisations
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Licenses are required in sectors like banking and insurance. A national security investment screening process is in force for potential foreign acquisitions of at least 25% of a company considered essential to national security or which is involved in the provision of public services such as energy, water, telecommunications, and education. Moreover, the federal and state governments maintain at least a 51% share in all energy generation and supply companies.
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Latest Update: July 2024
Austria: Investing in Austria
