Austria Unveils Stricter Asylum Measures, Extending Airport Procedures and Introducing 'Charter of Values'

New Asylum Framework Introduced

The Austrian government has unveiled a comprehensive package of national measures designed to implement the European Union's new Common European Asylum System. Announced on Thursday, January 16, 2026, the reforms introduce stricter procedures for asylum seekers, particularly those arriving by air, and expand sanction options for non-compliance with national values.

Extended Airport Procedures and Centralization

Under the new regulations, asylum seekers arriving at Vienna-Schwechat airport may now be held for up to 18 weeks, significantly extending the previous six-week limit. This change is part of a broader effort to centralize all airport asylum procedures in Vienna. The Austrian airport procedure allows for both an admissibility assessment and a full examination of asylum claims. Furthermore, a 'four-eyes principle' is in place for airport procedures, requiring the explicit consent of the UNHCR for the rejection of applications based on merits or existing protection in a safe third country.

'Charter of Values' and Expanded Sanctions

A key component of the new measures is the introduction of a mandatory 'Charter of Values' for all asylum seekers. This charter, described as 'house rules,' requires individuals to recognize the fundamental values of the Austrian republic, its democracy, and constitutional state. Non-compliance with this charter could lead to sanctions. Additionally, the government plans to introduce new sanction options within basic care by defining specific offenses that would allow penalties for misconduct. The reforms also include an expansion of biometric data collection and a reduction in the age for registration from 14 to six years old. Failure to participate in a mandatory integration year may also result in sanctions.

Broader Context of EU Asylum Policy and National Stance

Interior Minister Gerhard Karner stated that these reforms are intended to 'deprive smugglers of their business basis' and will facilitate the establishment of application centers and 'exit hubs.' State Secretary Jorg Leichtfried emphasized the pursuit of 'consistent returns,' while Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger highlighted the necessity to 'organize and control migration and consistently implement returns,' pointing to new migration agreements for readmissions. These national measures align with the EU's Common European Asylum System, which aims for faster asylum processing and deportations and is expected to be fully operational by 2026. Austria has also been actively extending the suspension of family reunification rights for recognized refugees, with the latest extension set until July 2, 2026, a measure first implemented on July 3, 2025. The government justifies these stricter policies by citing concerns over the potential overloading of social services, schools, and housing. Opposition parties, including the Greens, have criticized the plans, with Sigrid Maurer describing them as 'show politics.'