Austria offers a special work and residence permit called the Red-White-Red Card for qualified workers from outside the European Union and the European Economic Area. This card is designed to attract skilled professionals to fill gaps in the Austrian job market. It’s a straightforward way for foreign talent to come to Austria for work, aiming to make the immigration process less complicated for those with the right qualifications.
The process involves a points-based system where candidates are evaluated on various criteria like education, work experience, language skills, and age, ensuring that only those who can contribute significantly to the Austrian economy are granted the opportunity. This initiative reflects Austria’s commitment to welcoming international expertise, fostering cultural diversity, and boosting its workforce with global perspectives.
Whether you’re an IT specialist, a healthcare professional, or someone with unique skills in demand, this card can be your ticket to a new life in Austria, offering not just a job but also a chance to live in a country known for its high quality of life, cultural heritage, and economic stability. The Red-White-Red Card is more than just a visa; it’s a bridge to new opportunities, professional growth, and personal experiences in one of Europe’s central nations.
What is the Austria Red-White-Red Card?
The Austria Red-White-Red Card (RWR Card) is a special residence and work permit designed for qualified workers from non-EU and non-EEA countries. It aims to attract skilled professionals to Austria by simplifying the immigration process for those who can significantly contribute to the Austrian economy. The RWR Card allows holders to live and work in Austria for up to 24 months, with the possibility of extensions, and is valid for employment with a specific employer.
Eligibility Criteria for the Red-White-Red Card
To obtain the RWR Card, applicants must meet certain criteria evaluated through a points-based system. Points are awarded based on:
- Qualifications: Professional or academic education.
- Work Experience: Relevant professional experience.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in German, English, or other specified languages.
- Age: Younger applicants receive higher points.
- Job Offer: A concrete employment offer from an Austrian company.
- Salary: The salary must meet or exceed the legal minimum for the profession.
Each category of the RWR Card has its minimum points requirement, which must be met to be eligible.
Categories for the Red-White-Red Card
Highly Skilled Workers
This category is for professionals with exceptional qualifications or high-level skills, often with advanced degrees or extensive experience. They don’t need to provide proof of a job offer before applying, as they can enter Austria with a Job Seeker Visa to find employment, provided they meet a high points threshold (70 points).
Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations
These are individuals with qualifications in professions where there’s a shortage in Austria:
- IT Specialists: Software developers, database administrators, network engineers.
- Health Professionals: Nurses, doctors, therapists.
- Engineers: Mechanical, electrical, civil, etc.
- Technicians: In various fields like electronics or mechanical work.
- Craftsmen: Plumbers, electricians, carpenters.
To apply, they must have a job offer in one of these shortage occupations and achieve at least 55 points in the evaluation system.
Other Key Workers
This category includes workers in positions not listed as shortage occupations but still vital to the economy:
- Researchers in science or technology.
- Managers with specialized knowledge or skills.
- Experts in fields like finance or marketing.
These workers also need a job offer and must meet a 55-point threshold.
Start-Up Founders
Designed for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas that could benefit Austria. They must:
- Prove they have a business plan for an innovative startup.
- Show they have or can raise sufficient start-up capital (at least €30,000).
- Demonstrate their business will create jobs or introduce new technologies.
Graduates of Austrian Universities
This card is for non-EU nationals who have graduated from an Austrian university within the last year:
- University of Vienna: Austria’s oldest university, offering a wide range of programs.
- Technical University of Vienna: Known for its engineering and technology courses.
- Graz University of Technology: Renowned for its applied sciences.
- Medical University of Vienna: For those in medical and health sciences.
Graduates must have a job offer that matches their academic qualifications to apply.
Documents Required for the RWR Application
Valid Passport
- You need a passport valid for the duration of your intended stay in Austria.
Proof of Qualifications (Certificates, Diplomas)
- Academic degrees, professional certifications, or equivalent qualifications, possibly with an apostille.
Employment Contract or Job Offer
- A binding employment contract or a job offer from an Austrian employer, specifying the terms of employment.
Proof of Accommodation in Austria
- A lease agreement or proof of ownership of property in Austria to show you have a place to live.
Health Insurance Coverage
- Proof of health insurance that covers you in Austria, either through public or private insurance.
Other Supporting Documents
- CV: A detailed resume highlighting your qualifications and experience.
- Language Proficiency: Certificates or test results proving your language skills in German, English, or other relevant languages.
How to Apply for the Austria Red-White-Red Card?
- Check Eligibility: Determine which RWR Card category you fit into and calculate your points.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary documents as listed above.
- Application: Apply via an Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country or through your potential employer in Austria.
- Visa Issuance Number: Await the issuance of a visa number by the Austrian authorities.
- Submit Visa Application: Apply for a visa with the visa issuance number if you’re not already in Austria.
- Arrival and Final Steps: Once in Austria, you’ll need to register with the local authority and might need to present your documents again.
What Can You Do with a Red-White-Red Card?
- Work: Limited to the employer and profession stated in your application.
- Live: Reside in Austria for the duration of your card’s validity.
- Family Reunification: Your family can join you, potentially applying for a Red-White-Red Card Plus with broader work rights.
- Extension: Apply for extensions or transition to a Red-White-Red Card Plus for more job market flexibility.
Cost of Living and Accommodation in Austria
Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect in terms of living expenses:
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ||
| – Studio Apartment (Vienna) | €700 – €1,200 | Central areas are pricier; outskirts can be cheaper. |
| – 1-Bedroom Outside Vienna | €500 – €900 | Costs reduce significantly outside major cities. |
| Utilities | €150 – €250 | Electricity, heating, water, garbage. |
| Food | €300 – €600 | Depends on whether you cook or eat out frequently. |
| Transportation | ||
| – Public (Vienna Monthly Pass) | €48 | Very efficient public system; walking and biking also common. |
| – Car (Insurance, Fuel) | €200 – €400 | Not necessary in cities due to good public transport. |
| Health Insurance | €50 – €150 | Depends on coverage; mandatory for residence. |
| Internet | €25 – €50 | High-speed internet is widely available. |
| Entertainment | €100 – €300 | Varies by lifestyle; many cultural activities are affordable. |
Remember, these are average costs, and your actual expenses can vary based on lifestyle choices, location within Austria, and specific needs.
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