Nepalis in Austria

Nepalis in Austria are migrants from Nepal to Austria, mostly temporary expatriates, refugees and permanent residents, as well as their locally born descendants. Non-resident Nepalese Association (NRN)^[1] Austria is the umbrella organization of Nepalis living in Austria.

A large number of Nepalis living in Austria are asylum seekers and refugees. They were either Lhotshampas (Bhutanese Nepalis) expelled from Bhutan or Nepali refugees, victims of conflict whose lives were threatened by Maoists or the army in Nepal. Good education in Nepal has become a thing to dream only so some of the people are residing in Austria with a student visa as they want to get the European standard in education. Not all of them want to disclose their identity. Also, due to the free movement within the Schengen Area, it is hard to establish the actual number. The estimated number is around 1,000.^[2][3]

Many Nepalese in Austria are students, professionals, and entrepreneurs who bring a unique blend of their traditional heritage and modern aspirations. They actively participate in cultural festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar, fostering a sense of unity and preserving their cultural identity far from home. The community is also engaged in various social and charitable activities, often collaborating with local Austrians to promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding. Despite being far from their homeland, Nepalese in Austria maintain strong ties with Nepal, supporting development projects and staying connected through social networks and community organizations.

The Nepalese community in Austria, though relatively small, has a notable presence, particularly in urban centers like Vienna, Salzburg, and Graz. Many Nepalese have moved to Austria for educational opportunities, with a significant number of students enrolled in Austrian universities pursuing degrees in fields such as engineering, medicine, and social sciences. Additionally, professionals in sectors like information technology, healthcare, and hospitality have established successful careers, contributing to Austria's economy and diversity.

Cultural preservation is a cornerstone of the Nepalese diaspora in Austria. Traditional celebrations, including festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Teej, are organized by Nepalese associations and are attended by both the Nepalese and local Austrian communities, fostering a spirit of inclusiveness and cultural exchange. These events often feature traditional music, dance, and cuisine, offering a taste of Nepalese culture and creating a home-away-from-home atmosphere for the expatriates.

The Nepalese community is also active in philanthropic efforts, often raising funds for disaster relief and development projects in Nepal. This sense of solidarity and commitment to their homeland is a defining characteristic of the Nepalese diaspora. Moreover, social media and community groups play a crucial role in maintaining connections among the Nepalese in Austria, facilitating the exchange of information, support, and organizing community activities.

Language classes, cultural workshops, and networking events are commonly held to assist new arrivals in integrating into Austrian society while retaining their cultural roots. These initiatives help bridge the cultural gap and enhance mutual understanding between the Nepalese and Austrian communities. Overall, the Nepalese in Austria are a dynamic and integral part of the multicultural fabric, enriching the country with their unique cultural heritage and strong community spirit.

• Austria–Nepal relations
• Immigration to Austria
• Nepalese diaspora