Austria
The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
Get alerted when this changesLawLert pings you if Austria's laws change. Free.Get the free appDrugs
Possessing even small amounts of illegal drugs in Austria can lead to prison; expect long jail sentences and heavy fines for possession, use, or trafficking.
Long jail sentences and heavy fines.
§ US State Dept — AustriaMedications
Austria bans importing any pharmaceuticals containing narcotic or psychotropic substances; many US-common medications are illegal even with a prescription, and non-EU residents may carry only personal-use quantities for their stay.
§ US State Dept — AustriaCustoms & Cash
Declare funds over EUR 10,000 (or equivalent, all forms) when traveling between Austria and a non-EU country; no declaration needed between EU countries.
Failure to declare brings fines.
§ Australian DFAT Smartraveller — AustriaDriving
A US license needs an International Driving Permit (or official translation) to drive in Austria; motorways require a vignette sticker, and winter tires are mandatory Nov 1–Apr 15 in winter conditions (driving without voids insurance).
EUR 120 on-the-spot for missing vignette; substantial fines for no winter tires; strict DUI penalties.
§ US State Dept — AustriaLGBTQ+ Safety
Same-sex relationships are legal in Austria, couples may marry, and anti-discrimination laws apply; the community is well-established in Vienna and other cities.
§ US State Dept — AustriaPublic Conduct
It is illegal in Austria to cover your face in public places or buildings so you cannot be recognized — a general public-identity law that applies to tourists.
Fine or a requirement to attend a police station.
§ Australian DFAT Smartraveller — Austria