He was the youngest son born to Archduke Franz Karl of Austria and Princess Sophie of Bavaria.

Ludwig Viktor pursued the usual military career and was appointed General of the Infantry, but had no intentions to interfere in politics.

Ludwig Viktor's mother attempted to arrange a marriage for him with Duchess Sophie Charlotte in Bavaria, youngest sister of Empress Elisabeth, but he declined.

He likewise rejected plans to marry him to Isabel, daughter and heir presumptive of Emperor Pedro II of Brazil.

[6] He received the following orders and decorations:[7] Media related to Archduke Ludwig Viktor of Austria at Wikimedia Commons