Department of State Issues Notice of Arrangement Between Austria and the Exchange Visitor Program

The State Department issued a notice for a new program between the United States and the Republic of Austria has been established in accordance with existing Exchange Visitor Program (EVP) regulations, including regulations applying to the Intern and Trainee categories. The program supports the purposes of the Fulbright-Hayes Act by increasing participants' understanding of American culture and society and enhancing Americans' knowledge of Austrian culture and skills through an open interchange of ideas.

The new exchange between the United States and Austria allows EVP participation of Austrian citizens aged 18 to 30 who are currently enrolled in (or are within 12 months of graduation at the time of program application) an Austrian accredited post-secondary or dual/vocational education program outside the United States. Austrian exchange visitors will be placed for periods of between six and twelve months at up to two U.S. private companies or non-profit institutions.

Under the arrangement, the government of the Republic of Austria has established a reciprocal program permitting U.S. citizens aged 18 to 30 and who have recently graduated (within 12 months at the time of program application) from a U.S. degree, diploma, or certificate-granting educational institution to participate in a working holiday program. Participants may stay in Austria for up to 12 months, pursuing employment with one or more organizations to supplement their funds or for educational purposes without the need for a work permit while they are on the cultural exchange.