The most secure and successful path to obtaining permission to retain Austrian citizenship while acquiring another nationality is by demonstrating significant achievements in the interest of the Republic of Austria. According to § 28 para. 1 subpara. 1 of the Austrian Citizenship Act (StbG), retention must be approved if the applicant has already made contributions beneficial to Austria or is expected to do so in the future based on their personal and professional development. Such contributions may include scientific, economic, cultural, or athletic merits that provide a positive impact on Austria. In practice, applications based on these achievements—especially when supported by an experienced citizenship attorney—have a significantly higher success rate. Authorities and courts rely on objective, provable criteria and future-oriented assessments grounded in documented facts. An experienced lawyer can highlight the applicant’s individual merits, organize supporting evidence professionally, and tailor the legal argumentation to current jurisprudence and administrative requirements. In addition, communication with authorities and the collection of supporting statements can be carried out effectively. Other justifications—such as exceptional personal or family-related reasons—may be accepted in rare cases, but are generally more difficult to prove. Retention for the welfare of a minor is a separate legal category that applies specifically to children.
> Find more information on our legal services on Dual Citizenship in Austria and Austrian Citizenship Applications. Also review our page in German on Doppelte Staatsbürgerschaft Österreich.