Price shock in November: E-card fee almost doubled!

Price shock in November: E-card fee almost doubled!

November this year not only brings the first frosty temperatures, but also a series of massive price increases for consumers in Austria. The start of the heating season and an increased CO₂ tax contribute significantly to the fact that consumers have to expect noticeable cost increases. Electricity costs are rising by a whopping 33 percent, which is putting further pressure on already burdened households. This is particularly clear in the fee for the e-card, which will increase from 13.80 euros to 25 euros on November 15, 2025 - practically doubling the previous costs. According to oe24, a new regulatory regime will also be introduced from November 20, 2025, which will introduce stricter requirements for “buy now, pay later” for providers such as Klarna or PayPal. This goal is primarily intended to help curb over-indebtedness and impulsive purchases.

The price increases don't just affect everyday living costs. Fees for passports and driving licenses in Austria have also been increased by up to 50 percent since July 2025. Spotify plans to increase its prices by up to 22 percent, with the new rates effective November 15, 2025. What is particularly noticeable is the increase in the climate ticket, which will cost around 1,400 euros in the future - an increase of 200 euros. This is reported by the press.

Political framework conditions

Behind these massive increases is a comprehensive tax and savings package from the federal government. It is expected to save a total of 6.4 billion euros, but real savings of only 240 million euros are expected through the abolition of educational leave. For 2023, revenue is estimated at 105 billion euros, while expenses are 123 billion euros. The government deficit is to be reduced to three percent of GDP by 2028, with the deficit in 2022 at 4.7 percent.

The financial measures also include a tax increase and additional fee adjustments, which are expected to bring a total of 150 million euros into the state coffers. This is additionally supported by the abolition of the climate bonus, which brings the state two billion euros. Drastic cuts of 557 million euros for 2023 and 820 million euros for 2026 are planned for environmental funding.

Effects on everyday life

For citizens, this means a noticeable doubling of the cost of the e-card and significant price increases for public transport. For example, anyone who buys a Vienna public transport annual card in November 2025 can purchase it at the old rate of 365 euros if the current card is valid for at least seven months. If the old card is returned, a penalty of 30.42 euros must be paid. The coming months are therefore considered to be economically challenging for many households who will have to prepare for rising living costs.