Austria is part of the Schengen Agreement, which means there are no border controls for nationals of EU countries. EU citizens only require a valid national identity card or passport to enter Austria. Non-EU citizen require a valid passport and possibly a visa if you intend on a longer visit. US and Canadian nationals do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. US citizens can check the entry requirements for travel to Austria on the State Department website: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cispatw/cis/cis_965.html.
Health and Safety
No vaccinations are required for travel to Austria. The biggest threat to visitors’ safety is extreme weather conditions. When hiking, mountaineering, or backcountry skiing, hire a guide, use a GPS system, or have a map on hand to avoid getting lost. Learn what to do if you do get lost in the mountains. It is always good to have basic provisions on hand, such as water and some food. Note that cell phones may not work in the mountains and always check weather conditions prior to venturing out. Make sure you wear appropriate clothing, including sturdy footwear.
In the mountains, avalanches are a serious threat, even during the summer months. It is best to learn basic avalanche precautions to stay safe. Make sure children also know what to do in an emergency. If swimming in the many lakes in Austria, be sure to never jump into waters whose depths are unknown to you.
Crime is not a major concern in Austria if visitors take basic precautions. However, car break-ins are common, so valuables should never be left in vehicles, especially in plain sight. Late-night partying is not a problem, but use common sense to stay safe. Never walk around alone and in areas that are unknown to you late at night.