Austria: permits, calibres and seasons
Austria is the place for chamois and Alpine red deer. Hunting law is set by each of the nine states, so the details depend on where you hunt. As a guest you usually hunt on a Jagdgastkarte issued through whoever holds the hunting rights, with Austrian hunting liability insurance.
At a glance
Jagdgastkarte via host · liability insurance
What you need
Steps for a visiting hunter. Some depend on where you live. The Trip Planner filters them to your situation and adds deadlines.
Before you leave home
5 steps- Proof of your right to huntOfficial source
Proof of your hunting exam and your licence from home. Austrian states ask for proof of hunting aptitude.
- Firearms licence from your home countryConfirm with authority
Carry the licence for every firearm you take, issued in your own name.
- European Firearms PassOfficial source
Hunters from EU countries, Switzerland and Liechtenstein may bring up to five category C firearms without a permit, if they are entered in the European Firearms Pass and you can show the purpose of the trip.
- Temporary import permit for your firearmsCheck before travel
Residents outside the EU/EEA cannot use the European Firearms Pass. Apply to the Austrian district authority where you will stay, or an Austrian consulate for permission to bring your firearms in temporarily, well before you travel.
- Invitation or hunting agreementOfficial source
Carry proof of the purpose of the trip, such as the invitation from your host.
Permits at the destination
2 steps- Guest hunting card (Jagdgastkarte)Official source
Issued through the holder of the hunting rights, such as the owner or lessee of the hunting ground. The rules differ by state, so let your host arrange it.
- Austrian hunting liability insuranceOfficial source
You need adequate hunting liability insurance. Ask your host whether it is included with the guest card.
During and after the hunt
1 step- Check the state's ammunition rules and seasonsCheck before travel
Ammunition rules and seasons are set by each state. Ask your host which apply.
Ammunition by animal
Source: Austria · Hunting law is set by each of the nine states
| Animal | Rifle | Shotgun |
|---|---|---|
 | Set by the state's hunting law. Ask your host which rule applies in the state where you hunt. | Shot Check Slug Check |
 | Set by the state's hunting law. Ask your host which rule applies in the state where you hunt. | Shot Check Slug Check |
 | Set by the state's hunting law. Ask your host which rule applies in the state where you hunt. | Shot Check Slug Check |
 | Set by the state's hunting law. Ask your host which rule applies in the state where you hunt. | Shot Check Slug Check |
MouflonMufflon | Set by the state's hunting law. Ask your host which rule applies in the state where you hunt. | Shot Check Slug Check |
Red foxRødrev | Set by the state's hunting law. Ask your host which rule applies in the state where you hunt. | Shot Check Slug No |
HareHare | Set by the state's hunting law. Ask your host which rule applies in the state where you hunt. | Shot Check Slug No |
PheasantFasan | Shot with a shotgun. | Shot Check Slug No |
Ammunition and shotgun rules are set by each state.
Seasons
See the year wheel →Seasons in Austria are set by each state and LØVLI has not verified them yet. Ask your host or organiser for the dates that apply.
Known costs
No fixed official fees confirmed yet.
Official fees we have confirmed. The hunt itself, trophy fees, travel and insurance come on top.
Questions
Do I need an Austrian hunting exam?
Usually not as a guest. You hunt on a guest card arranged through the holder of the hunting rights, but rules differ by state.
How many firearms can I bring to Austria?
EU hunters may bring up to five category C firearms entered in the European Firearms Pass, with proof of the trip's purpose.
How far ahead should I start planning a hunt in Austria?
The longest step takes about 42 days. Start at least that far ahead of your first hunting day, and earlier for popular seasons.