Skip to main content
After You Arrive

Bank Account and SIM Card in Austria

How students open a bank account and get a phone SIM card in Austria. Prices are in euro (EUR).

Erste Bank

Example: student account
Account #: •••• 0000

Recent Transactions

Example: groceries

Example: prepaid SIM top-up

A1
Student SIM
Example number

Example account and phone screen

Banking Options

Student Banking in Austria

Several Austrian banks offer accounts for students.

Example Bank
One example of a free student account.
Erste Bank and Sparkassen
  • Free student account
  • Includes the ISIC student discount card
  • George online banking and app
Visit Website

Before you open an account

Banks can ask for different papers, so check before you go.

Step by Step

How to Open a Bank Account in Austria

Most banks open accounts at a branch.

1

Pick a bank

Some banks have free student accounts.

2

Book an appointment

Book online and go to a branch near you.

3

Open your account

Get your debit card and set up online banking.

Tips

Ask the bank which papers it needs from students from outside the European Union (EU).

Staying Connected

SIM Cards in Austria

You can buy a prepaid SIM card and add money to it when you need.

A1

A1 sells prepaid plans called B.free, with no contract.

Best Student Deal:

B.free prepaid: from EUR 9.90 for 4 weeks

Visit Website
How to Get a Prepaid SIM
Example: A1 B.free prepaid.
1
Buy a starter pack

Buy a prepaid starter pack, with a physical SIM or an eSIM.

2
Register the SIM

Register the card with your ID. The law requires this.

3
Choose a plan

A1 B.free plans start at EUR 9.90 for 4 weeks.

Good to Know
  • By law, a new prepaid SIM card must be registered with your details.
  • A1 B.free prices are for 4 weeks (28 days), not a full month.
Practical Advice

Tips for Money and Phone

Simple steps for your first weeks.

Money Tips

  • Plan in euro

    Real living costs are about EUR 1,300 a month, mainly rent, food and insurance. This is not the same as the money proof for your permit.

  • Keep your permit money proof

    Keep the bank papers you used for your permit. You may need them again to renew it.

Explore Student Life in Austria

Complete Guide to Austria

Explore all aspects of studying in Austria with our comprehensive guides

Post-Arrival - Detailed Guides

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Get personalized guidance for studying in Austria with our expert consultants

Get Free Consultation
Expert Support

Need help setting up in Austria?

We help you plan your first weeks in Austria, from your address registration to your bank account.

Talk to an Advisor