Vehicle Registration in Austria
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

1. Why vehicle registration is often underestimated

If you are moving from Slovakia or another EU country to Austria, or if you are conducting business here, vehicle registration is an important issue that should not be overlooked. Many entrepreneurs use their vehicles for business purposes or as company cars, which can complicate the situation. Although the EU allows the free movement of goods, Austria has specific rules regarding the registration and taxation of imported vehicles. Failing to pay attention to these rules can result in unexpected fees or penalties.

2. When a vehicle needs to be registered

As soon as a person moves their main residence to Austria, they are required to register their vehicle. For entrepreneurs, this rule can also apply if the vehicle is used for business purposes or is part of a company fleet. In many cases, the deadline for registration is one month from the date of establishing residence or starting business operations in Austria.
Failure to meet this deadline can result in fines or even a prohibition on using the vehicle. Moreover, insurance problems can arise if the vehicle remains registered abroad.

What to keep in mind:

• Main residence or business location is decisive: If the vehicle is regularly used in Austria and there is a main residence or business location here, registration is generally required.
  
  Our tip: If you regularly commute between two countries, check whether exceptions for cross-border use apply.


• Observe deadlines: Registration usually needs to be completed within one month.
  
  Our tip: Gather all necessary documents before your move to avoid delays.

3. The NoVA – a commonly overlooked extra cost

One of the biggest surprises for many vehicle owners is the NoVA (standard consumption tax). This one-time tax is charged in Austria when a vehicle is first registered. It is based on the vehicle's CO₂ emissions and, depending on the model, can amount to several thousand euros. Whether, and to what extent, NoVA is due also depends on how long the vehicle has been registered abroad. Under certain conditions, exemptions apply – for example, for relocation vehicles that have been in use for a certain period.

What to keep in mind:

• NoVA calculation: The amount is based on the vehicle's CO₂ emissions.
  
  Our tip: Check in advance whether the vehicle qualifies as a relocation asset – if so, an exemption from NoVA might be possible.


• Commercial use and NoVA: If you use the vehicle for business, you should find out about potential VAT deductions and tax reliefs.
  
  Our tip: Compare with Austrian leasing or purchase options before you incur high import costs.

4. Insurance and technical inspection ("Pickerl")

Another often-overlooked topic is insurance. Once the vehicle is registered in Austria, you must obtain an Austrian motor vehicle liability insurance. Insurance policies from abroad usually lose their validity. Additionally, the vehicle must undergo a technical inspection. In Austria, this is the so-called §57a inspection ("Pickerl"), and the intervals and requirements may differ from those in other countries.

What to keep in mind:

• Switching insurance: A new motor vehicle insurance policy in Austria is mandatory.
  
  Our tip: An early comparison of insurance providers can save money, as premiums vary significantly.


• Pickerl deadlines: Some vehicles require immediate technical inspection after registration.
  
  Our tip: Check in advance whether your last inspection from your home country is recognised or if a new one is necessary.

5. Penalties and consequences of late registration

Failure to register your vehicle on time can result in significant fines. Austrian authorities regularly carry out checks, especially on vehicles with foreign license plates that have been used in the country for an extended period. In addition, late registration can lead to retroactive tax or duty payments. In some cases, the vehicle may even be de-registered by the authorities.

What to keep in mind:

• Avoid fines: If you wait too long, you could face fines or mandatory de-registration of the vehicle.
  
  Our tip: It's best to complete the registration immediately after moving or starting business operations in Austria.


• Retroactive tax claims: Late registration may result in backdated tax payments.
  
  Our tip: If you have missed the deadline, early clarification with the authorities can help avoid higher payments.

Conclusion: Careful planning saves time and money

Registering a vehicle in Austria is often more complex than expected. Deadlines, administrative steps, and tax issues such as NoVA and vehicle tax all play a role. Business users, in particular, should ensure they are well informed to avoid overlooking important regulations.

Gathering all relevant information and documents early can prevent delays and unexpected costs. If in doubt, seek expert advice to ensure your relocation goes smoothly.

(This article does not replace legal or tax advice. For specific questions and individual support, please feel free to contact us.)