Yes,
Dating siblings is not illegal in Austria unless it involves sexual relations, which are criminalized under §212 of the Austrian Criminal Code. Consensual non-sexual relationships between siblings are not explicitly prohibited, but they may face social and familial scrutiny. The Austrian Ministry of Justice has not issued specific guidelines on sibling relationships, leaving interpretation to local authorities.
Key Regulations for Dating Siblings in Austria
- Criminal Code §212: Prohibits sexual intercourse between siblings, with penalties of up to 3 years imprisonment. This applies regardless of consent.
- Family Law (§1307 BGB): While not directly addressing dating, it reinforces the prohibition of marriages between siblings, reflecting broader incest laws.
- Local Enforcement: Police and prosecutors in Vienna and other regions prioritize cases involving minors or coercion, but adult sibling relationships are rarely prosecuted unless sexual activity is involved.
Austria’s legal framework aligns with the European Court of Human Rights’ stance, which permits restrictions on incestuous relationships to protect public morals and family integrity. However, non-sexual sibling relationships remain a legal gray area, with no explicit ban but potential indirect consequences in employment or social services. The 2026 amendment to the Criminal Code is expected to clarify ambiguities, particularly regarding consent in close-kin relationships.