Tattoo regulations in Austria
In Austria, tattooing is a regulated trade under the Trade Regulation Act, so running a studio needs a trade licence backed by a proof of qualification. Practice rules issued for piercing and tattooing set hygiene, client information and documentation duties, including conditions for minors. Inks follow the EU REACH restriction and health answers fall under the GDPR.
Last checked September 25, 2026
Minimum age
Who you can tattoo, and with whose permission.
Minimum age
18 and over
Younger clients
From 16 with a parent's or guardian's consent
As we understand the practice rules, 16 and 17 year olds need a parent's written consent and younger minors should not be tattooed. We could not confirm every detail, so check the current rules with your chamber of commerce (WKO).
Consent
What the customer signs before each tattoo.
Client records
What to record and how long to keep it.
Keep for 5 years
Common practice, not set by law
- Accounting records: 7 years
What to record
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Address
- Date of the procedure
- Placement on the body
- Artist
- Ink brand, colour and manufacturer
- Ink lot numbers
- Health questionnaire answers
- Client signature
- Parent or guardian details
Ink
What can go into the skin and what you must record.
Sterilization and waste
Cleaning, sterilizing and getting rid of sharps.
Licensing
What you need to open a studio and work in it.
Guest artists
Hosting artists from somewhere else.