Austria to introduce mandatory e-card fee for pensioners

Starting in November 2026, pensioners in Austria will face a new financial obligation through the automatic deduction of an annual electronic health card (e-card) fee from their pension payments. This change applies to all pensioners receiving funds in Austria, including those from other countries.

Previously, pensioners were exempt from this fee, while employees had it deducted from their wages. Under new regulations aimed at consolidating public finances, this exemption will end. The fee is a single annual payment made in advance for the following calendar year. For example, the November 2026 deduction will cover the 2027 fee, which is set at 26.85 euros.

The cost of the fee has seen significant increases: it was 13.80 euros in 2025, rose to 25 euros for 2026, and will reach 26.85 euros for 2027. No manual application or payment is required, as the pension insurance provider will handle the deduction automatically. Certain groups remain exempt, including family members covered through another household member and low-income individuals exempt from medication participation fees.