Residents of Vienna who own a second home in the city will soon be subject to a new tax, unless they have their main residence there. The proposed law is being reviewed by City Councilor for Finance, Peter Hanke (SPÖ), with a decision expected in the first half of next year, 2024. If approved, the tax will come into effect at the beginning of 2025.

The tax will be based on the size of the second home, measured in square metres. For apartments up to 60 square metres, the tax will be 300 euros, while apartments up to 130 square metres will be 450 euros. Larger properties will incur a tax of 550 euros. Regardless of the number of people registered at the property, the tax will be charged annually.

The basic tax amounts will be supplemented by additional charges and deductions for different locations and conditions. The number of additional homes owned by an individual will also factor into the calculation. For each additional apartment beyond the first, a surcharge of 50 percent will be applied. Discounts will be available for apartments without electricity. Certain exceptions, such as student hostels, nursing homes, and worker dormitories, will also be included in the draft.

City Councilor Hanke emphasised the need for a "reassessment" of the tax system in order to preserve the city's quality of life in the future. The revenue generated from the second home tax will contribute to maintaining Vienna's infrastructure and cultural offerings. The introduction of this tax coincides with the elimination of the GIS state tax as part of the transition to the ORF household tax, as announced by the city.