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- A strategic guide for navigating legal entity compliance in 2025 and beyond
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For the production of economic statistics, it is necessary that each enterprise is classified according to its economic activity. This classification is based on the NACE classification of economic activities applicable in the European Union, which is called ÖNACE in a national version. ÖNACE 2025 has been in force in Austria since 2025.
What is the ÖNACE system and why does it matter for businesses?
The ÖNACE code assigns every company or branch in Austria to an economic sector, based on its main business activity. Statistik Austria, the country’s official statistics office, manages this classification under the Austrian Federal Statistics Act 2000.
Every company or branch holding a VAT number or an income tax number receives this code, which is communicated through a Classification Notice.
Although designed for statistical analysis, ÖNACE plays a key administrative role. Companies must use their assigned code when handling processes such as:
- Income tax return filing
- EORI number registration
- EMAS environmental compliance
- Applications for government subsidies
What’s changing with ÖNACE 2025?
Following Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/137, Austria introduced ÖNACE 2025, a revised version aligned with the updated EU standard (NACE Rev. 2).
Starting in the first half of 2025, Statistik Austria will issue new Classification Notices. Most companies will receive these electronically via the Company Service Portal (USP).
To ensure they receive the notice without issues, companies should:
- Make sure their USP mailbox is activated
- Regularly check the mailbox for updates
- Confirm that their contact email in USP is accurate
If a company doesn’t use USP, the notice may be sent by email or post instead.
How can a business challenge its classification?
In some cases, the assigned ÖNACE code may no longer reflect the company’s real activity. If the classification is outdated or inaccurate, the company can challenge it.
To do this, a written objection must be submitted within four weeks of receiving the notice. The application must explain the issue and describe the actual business activities performed.
After receiving the request, Statistik Austria will review the case. If it agrees with the company’s reasoning, a new classification will be assigned. If no resolution is reached, the case is transferred to the competent Federal Ministry, and the company is informed of the transfer.
When does the ÖNACE classification become final?
The ÖNACE classification becomes legally effective once one of the following occurs:
- The four-week objection period expires without response.
- The company formally approves the assigned code.
- Statistik Austria confirms a revised assignment.
- The company withdraws its objection.
How can companies respond?
Businesses can communicate with Statistik Austria in various ways:
- Electronically via the USP or Statistics Austria Portal
- By email
- Over the phone
- Through postal mail or fax
Regardless of the channel, responses must be clear, timely, and backed with appropriate detail.
Why this process matters more than ever?
With ÖNACE 2025 just around the corner, companies cannot afford to overlook this classification. A wrong code may not just affect statistics, it can directly impact tax filing, compliance, and funding opportunities.
This classification also forms part of the company’s identity in the eyes of regulatory bodies. If it’s wrong or outdated, it could lead to delays, misreporting, or administrative issues down the line.
Need help with the ÖNACE 2025 update?
Navigating these administrative updates requires more than just awareness. It requires action, monitoring, and documentation—especially when tight deadlines are involved. This is where Klea comes into play, helping businesses stay compliant, coordinated, and confident. From mapping the correct codes to preparing updated documentation and submitting your file, we handle everything. If you manage multiple entities or want to avoid last-minute delays, we’ll take care of the entire classification update—end to end.
For more insights into processes in other jurisdictions, explore our article, CAEN Rev.3 in Romania: How and When to update your Company’s Activity Codes.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided on Klea’s website is made available “as is” for informational purposes only. Klea does not provide legal, tax, or financial advice and is not responsible for any actions taken or not taken based on the content found on this website. In no event shall Klea be liable for any loss or damages arising from reliance on the information contained herein.
For specific legal or compliance support tailored to your business needs, please contact Klea directly. Our team provides personalized guidance and expert solutions. Any reliance on general content without direct consultation does not establish any legal responsibility or liability on Klea’s part.