In the past two years, around 17,000 people have arrived in Austria through family reunification. The financial burdens are borne by the taxpayer. But who exactly benefits from family reunification? How high are the costs and what are the social implications?
Austrian Chancellor Christian Kern announced plans to stop family reunification, but in reality, the government only intends to limit the process. Exceptions will be made for well-integrated individuals or children without a family connection in their country of origin. Critics, including the Freedom Party, have described the reform as inadequate.
In 2024, a total of 7,762 people arrived in Austria through family reunification, including 4,817 women and 2,945 men. Over 5,300 of these individuals were minors, with around 3,100 of them of school age. The majority of these people came from Syria (89%), followed by Afghanistan (4%) and Somalia (3%).
For comparison, in 2023, 10,642 people arrived in Austria through family reunification, with Syria again being the largest group.
As of January 1, 2025, Austria’s population was 9,198,214, with around 80% being Austrian citizens, 10% EU citizens and 10% third-country nationals. In comparison, 15 years ago, the proportion of Austrians was 89%, with third-country nationals making up only 6% of the population.
The number of people with foreign nationality currently stands at 1,855,624 and 22.7% of the population was born outside of Austria. In 2024, 16,784 asylum applications were approved, with 74% of these being Syrian nationals. Additionally, 7,673 cases of subsidiary protection were granted, mainly to Afghans.
Once someone is granted asylum, they can apply for family reunification within three months. For those granted subsidiary protection, the waiting period is three years. After a positive decision, the journey to Austria begins – and with arrival, numerous social benefits kick in. The applicants receive basic support, housing subsidies, family allowance and other forms of assistance, such as language courses or school places.
Especially affected are schools, particularly in Vienna, where 34% of compulsory school students do not speak German as their everyday language. The healthcare system is also under pressure.
The financial expenditures for family reunification are enormous, with additional costs for administration, education and integration measures. A complete breakdown of the costs is not available, according to an answer to a Freedom Party inquiry.
Family reunification remains a challenge for Austria’s social system. Despite the planned limitations, it will remain possible in many cases, resulting in significant costs and a lasting impact on social structures.