Ireland in Austria
The relationship between Ireland and Austria has deep roots in history that remain vibrant to the present day. Some of Ireland’s most common names – from O’Donnell to Kavanagh – are found scattered through Austrian political history. Today, the Irish influence in Austria continues to flourish thanks to an active and diverse diaspora community.
Ireland's work at OSCE
The Organisation for Security and Co-Operation in Europe is headquartered in Vienna.
A – U of Ireland
We’ve selected one word for each that illustrates something emblematic of Ireland.
Meet the Irish thriving in Austria’s arts scene
Talented Irish artists have chosen to make Austria their creative home.
Ireland’s Global Footprint to 2025
Learn about initiatives to double the scope and impact of our global footprint.
In the 12th century, Irish monks founded the Schottenstift abbey in central Vienna, and in the late 17th century, Austria gave refuge to a number of Ireland’s ‘Wild Geese’ émigrés.
Today, there are approximately 2,000 Irish people living in Austria, predominantly either studying or working in international relations, arts and business.
Shared values and connections
Ireland shares great similarities with Austria. Our shared values are evident in terms of our support for multilateralism, our commitment to the peaceful resolution of conflicts, and our record of involvement in UN peacekeeping missions.
Our common home in the European Union and the Eurozone has meant a steady growth in trade between our two nations, with over €425 million in goods and over €2 billion in services in 2022.
Irish culture is very present in Austria, through the thriving Irish music and dance scene, regular exhibitions by contemporary artists, the Vienna Gaels Gaelic football club, and not least through the University of Vienna’s Centre for Irish Studies, the largest such centre in the German-speaking world.
Embassy of Ireland, Austria
The Embassy works to promote and protect Irish interests in Austria, strengthen political and economic relationships, support the Irish community and promote cultural ties and the Irish arts.
Our partners
The Embassy works closely with Irish State Agencies in Austria and at home, to promote trade, tourism and inward investment.
Enterprise Ireland
Enterprise Ireland is the government organisation responsible for the development and growth of Irish enterprises in world markets.
IDA Ireland
Promoting foreign direct investment into Ireland through a wide range of services.
Tourism Ireland
Marketing the island of Ireland overseas as a holiday and business tourism destination.
Bord Bia
The role of Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, is to act as a link between Irish food, drink and horticulture suppliers, and existing and potential customers throughout the world.