Domestic violence — Where can I get help in Vienna?

1. Immediate help — call now

The women's helpline against violence is available 24/7 at 0800 222 555 — free, anonymous, in multiple languages. The 24-hour women's emergency service of the City of Vienna (01 71719) offers immediate counseling and crisis intervention. Both can also help you plan your next steps.

Online chat: The women's shelters HelpChat (haltdergewalt.at) offers anonymous counseling in 15 languages — daily 6-10pm, Fridays also 9am-11pm.

→ You're in immediate danger? Call 133 (police). The police can immediately remove the perpetrator from the home (restraining order).

2. Protection — Shelters and transitional housing

If you need a safe place: Vienna has several women's shelters with secret addresses. You can come with your children, you don't need money or documents. The women's helpline (0800 222 555) arranges places — even in the middle of the night.

Men who experience violence can also get help — the men's emergency hotline (05 76 77) is available 24/7.

3. Legal — Restraining orders and legal support

After a police intervention, you automatically get contacted by the Violence Protection Center Vienna. They advise you on your legal options: interim injunction, restraining order, divorce, custody. All free of charge.

If charges are filed, you as a victim are entitled to free trial support — both legal and psychosocial. The organization NEUSTART and Weisser Ring victim support offer this.

4. Long-term support

Violence leaves traces — even after the immediate danger is over. Psychological counseling and therapy help with processing. The Psychosocial Services Vienna (PSD), the Crisis Intervention Center (KIZ), and specialized organizations like Hemayat (for torture survivors) or Orient Express (for migrant women) offer free support.