Red-White-Red Card

The Austrian Red-White-Red Card is a work and residence permit for highly skilled professionals, key workers, and skilled workers in shortage occupations from non-EU countries. This pathway aims to attract talent to work and settle in Austria. The card is divided into different categories, including extremely highly skilled workers, skilled professionals, key personnel, and graduates. Holders can legally work and reside in Austria and may apply for long-term residence or citizenship after meeting certain conditions. Applications require employer sponsorship, and the position must meet Austrian labor market needs. Specific criteria are subject to the latest official announcements.

• Non-EU citizen
• Valid job offer from an Austrian employer, with the position on the shortage occupation list or meeting specific skill requirements
• Relevant educational or professional qualifications for the position
• For some categories, points-based assessment covering language skills, age, work experience, etc.
• Employer must prove inability to fill the position with local or EU labor
• Specific criteria subject to latest official announcements

1. Obtain a job offer from an Austrian employer, ensuring the position meets Red-White-Red Card requirements.
2. Employer submits a vacancy report to the Austrian Public Employment Service (AMS) for labor market test approval.
3. Applicant prepares complete application documents and submits the Red-White-Red Card application to the Austrian embassy or consulate abroad.
4. The embassy reviews documents and may request additional information or an interview.
5. Upon approval, collect the Red-White-Red Card and enter Austria within the specified timeframe.
6. After entry, register with the local immigration authority and complete registration procedures.

• Check if the position is on the shortage occupation list to increase approval chances.
• Ensure all documents are translated into German and notarized.
• Learn basic German to aid integration and future permanent residence applications.
• Maintain good communication with the employer to ensure cooperation with the labor market test.
• Stay updated on official policy changes, as criteria may be adjusted.