Wide-ranging changes in AMS, Pickerl, and Pass as part of the first government package to combat bureaucracy
The Austrian government has unveiled its first comprehensive reform package to combat bureaucracy, consisting of 114 measures aimed at reducing administrative burdens, speeding up public services, and saving billions of euros. The reforms aim to modernize the state and improve efficiency for citizens and businesses.
The package focuses on ten main axes, including economic business locations, support for small and medium enterprises, simplification of administrative procedures, digitization, taxation, the banking system, financial support systems, education reforms, and a review of European legislation. It targets the most complex bureaucratic processes in each area.
Digitalization is an essential part of the package, by expanding the Digital Consulate platform to become a secure system that enables citizens to carry out consular services online. Passport applications can now be submitted digitally, dozens of administrative transactions are available, and the system integrates with local authorities to enhance protection and efficiency.
The reforms also include the Arbeitsmarktservice (AMS) by implementing automated daily data transfers to social support authorities, which reduces errors and delays and improves transparency in social support. Vehicle inspections known as Pickerl will also see adjustments to schedules to reduce costs and unnecessary visits to workshops while maintaining safety standards.
The additional measures include simplifying participation in Volksbegehren, allowing the use of electronic identity for age verification in Automatenshops, and establishing integrated service centers for businesses to facilitate approvals and inspections. Overall, the government expects these reforms to save hundreds of millions annually and bring about a fundamental modernization of public administration in the future.