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Austria allows family members of foreign workers, students, and residents to join them through the family reunification system.?Dependents can apply for a residence permit for family members, which enables them to live in Austria and, in many cases, work or study.?Here is a clear guide on who qualifies, required documents, and how the application process works.
1. Who Qualifies as a Dependent in Austria?
Austria recognizes the following family members as dependents:
• Spouse or registered partner
• Unmarried minor children (under 18)
• Same-sex partners with proof of a long-term relationship
• Parents of minor children if family reunification is required
Each family member must submit an individual application.
2. Eligibility Requirements
Dependents may apply if the sponsor (the main residence permit holder in Austria):
• Holds a valid residence permit (Red-White-Red Card, EU Blue Card, student permit, ICT permit, etc.)
• Has adequate income to support the family
• Has health insurance for all family members
• Can provide sufficient accommodation in Austria
• Has no legal restrictions or security issues
Most categories are subject to annual family reunification quotas, except for dependents of highly skilled workers.
3. Required Documents for Dependent Residence Permits
From the Dependent Applicant
• Valid passport
• Residence permit application form
• Biometric photo
• Birth or marriage certificate (legalized/apostilled + German translation)
• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, partnership proof)
• Police clearance certificate (above age 14)
• Travel health insurance until Austrian insurance is activated
From the Sponsor in Austria
• Copy of passport and residence permit
• Rental agreement or proof of adequate housing
• Income proof (salary slips, employment contract, tax statements)
• Valid health insurance for all family members
All foreign documents must be translated into German and properly legalized.
4. Financial Requirements
Austria requires sponsors to prove stable income.?Approximate monthly minimum (2025):
• Single adult applicant: around €1,200
• Couple: around €1,900
• Each child: + €190–€250
Income must be regular, legal, and documented.
5. Application Process for Dependents
Step 1: Submit the Application
Applications are submitted at:
• The Austrian embassy/consulate in the dependent’s home country, or
• The local residence authority (MA35 or Bezirkshauptmannschaft) in Austria if applying from within the country (in limited cases)
Step 2: Attend Biometrics Appointment
Dependents must:
• Give fingerprints
• Submit original documents
• Complete identity verification
Step 3: Authorities Review the Application
The process includes:
• Income and housing checks
• Document verification
• Background/security review
Step 4: Receive Decision
Processing time is usually 2–6 months, depending on permit type and quotas.
Step 5: Collect Residence Permit Card
Once approved, the dependent receives a “Residence Permit – Family Member”, allowing legal stay in Austria.
6. Can Dependents Work in Austria?
Yes — many dependents can work.?Work rights depend on the sponsor’s permit:
• Dependents of EU Blue Card or Red-White-Red Card holders:?→ Eligible for their own Red-White-Red Card Plus, which grants unrestricted work rights.
• Dependents of students or general residence permit holders:?→ May need a work permit from the AMS before employment.
Children can attend school without restrictions.
7. After Arrival in Austria
Dependents must complete:
• Registration of residence (Meldezettel) within 3 days
• Health insurance activation
• Pick-up of the residence permit card
• School enrolment for children
Key Takeaway
Dependents can join family members in Austria through the family reunification residence permit.?With proper documentation, proof of relationship, sufficient income, housing, and insurance, spouses and children can live — and often work — legally in Austria.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice.?Requirements for family reunification in Austria may vary based on the applicant’s status and updates from Austrian authorities.?Always check the latest rules with your local Austrian embassy or residence authority before applying.
November 14, 2025
