In general, Austrian citizenship law does not permit dual or multiple citizenship.
In principle, anyone who voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship thereby loses Austrian citizenship.
In order not to lose Austrian citizenship, it is absolutely necessary to apply before acquiring the foreign citizenship in writing for a permit of retention and to have it approved by written decision. The examination falls within the exclusive responsibility of the competent office of the provincial government, which based on the applicable case law has to apply a strict standard of assessment with regard to the prerequisites for retention. Abroad, applications can also be submitted at the competent diplomatic representation (embassy or professional consulate general) according to the place of residence.
Equally, persons applying for Austrian citizenship need to give up their previous citizenship insofar as this is possible and reasonable for them. The assessment whether giving up the previous citizenship is possible or reasonable falls within the exclusive responsibility of the competent provincial government.
An important exception to this principle is the acquisition of citizenship by descent:
If in addition to Austrian citizenship, another citizenship is acquired at the time of birth - for example by descent from the other parent ("ius sanguinis") or by the country-of-birth principle ("ius soli") - Austrian citizenship is not lost.
According to Austrian law, these dual citizens never have to decide in favour of their Austrian citizenship - not even when they reach the age of majority.
Only the competent foreign authorities can inform about the provisions of foreign law in these cases.
