Access to nationality in Austria has worsened since 2004 and now scores the worst out of the 28 MIPEX countries (see box). Most legal residents are only eligible after ten years. Children and grandchildren born in the country are only eligible to become citizens of their country of birth through facilitated naturalisation. This is also available for recognised refugees and migrants whose personal and professional integration the state deems to be ‘sustainable.' Applicants must then go through the least favourable conditions to acquire nationality found in the 28 MIPEX countries. Migrants hoping to naturalise are insecure since the state can refuse their application on many grounds: for instance, if they had a three-month prison sentence for fiscal irregularities or serious and repeated violations of administrative regulations, like drink-driving. They do have various rights of appeal and legal guarantees though. Most applicants must renounce their original nationality.
