Austria to implement E-Card service fee for pensioners

Starting in November 2026, pensioners in Austria will be required to pay the annual E-Card service fee, a measure previously exempt for those in retirement. The fee, which will be automatically deducted from November pension payments, is set at 26.85 euros for the 2027 calendar year.

This change is part of broader budget measures. The fee has seen significant increases, rising from 13.80 euros in 2025 and 25 euros in 2026 to the new rate of 26.85 euros. The deduction is collected in advance for the upcoming year and is transferred to the Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK).

Not all retirees are affected. Exemptions apply to individuals receiving an equalization allowance (Ausgleichszulage) and those exempt from prescription fees due to special social vulnerability. Other exempt groups include marginal employees and individuals without current income at the deadline, such as those on maternity leave or performing civil service.