Wiktorin was enthusiastic about the annexation of Austria. After the annexation, he was recalled into service and promoted to lieutenant-general of the army. In July 1938, he took command of the 20th Infantry Division. Wiktorin commanded the 20th in the invasion of Poland and attended the German–Soviet military parade in Brest-Litovsk with Heinz Guderian. In May 1940, the 20th Infantry Division took part in the invasion of France.