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The Red-White-Red Card is a combined residence and work permit that allows qualified non-EU/EEA nationals to live and work legally in Austria. It is designed to attract skilled workers who can help fill labour shortages in key sectors of the Austrian economy.
Unlike general work visas, the Red-White-Red Card is points-based and focuses on qualifications, work experience, age, language skills, and salary level.
What Is the Red-White-Red Card?
The Red-White-Red Card is issued for 24 months and allows holders to:
• Live and work legally in Austria
• Work for a specific employer (initially)
• Bring eligible family members
• Access Austria’s social security system
• Apply for long-term residence after meeting conditions
It combines residence and employment authorization into a single permit.
Who Can Apply for the Red-White-Red Card?
Austria issues the Red-White-Red Card under several eligibility categories. Applicants must usually meet minimum points and salary requirements.
Main Eligibility Categories
1. Very Highly Qualified Workers
This category targets top-level professionals such as senior managers, researchers, and specialists.
Points are awarded for:
• Higher education qualifications
• High-level work experience
• Previous salary level
• Language skills (German or English)
• Age
A job offer is not required initially, but employment must be secured after entry.
2. Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations
Austria publishes an annual shortage occupation list, which often includes:
• Engineers
• IT professionals
• Technicians
• Healthcare workers
• Skilled trades
Applicants must:
• Have relevant qualifications
• Meet the minimum points threshold
• Receive a job offer with a salary meeting Austrian standards
3. Other Key Workers
This category applies to skilled workers whose professions are not on the shortage list but who still meet:
• Required qualifications
• Minimum points
• Salary thresholds
A binding job offer is mandatory.
4. Graduates of Austrian Universities
International students who graduate from Austrian higher education institutions can apply if they:
• Secure a relevant job offer
• Meet salary and qualification requirements
Points System Overview
Points are typically awarded based on:
• Education and professional qualifications
• Relevant work experience
• Language proficiency (German/English)
• Age (younger applicants score higher)
• Salary level
Applicants must reach the minimum required points for their category to qualify.
Salary Requirements
Each category has a minimum gross salary requirement, which is:
• Reviewed and updated regularly
• Dependent on age and job role
• Must meet Austrian collective agreement standards
Validity and Renewal
• The Red-White-Red Card is valid for up to 24 months
• It is employer-specific during the initial period
• After meeting requirements, holders can apply for the Red-White-Red Card Plus, which allows free access to the labour market
Family Members and Work Rights
Family members can apply for residence permits under family reunification.?Spouses holding a Red-White-Red Card Plus are generally allowed to work without restrictions.
Benefits of the Red-White-Red Card
• Legal residence and employment in Austria
• Clear pathway to permanent residence
• Family reunification options
• Access to public healthcare and social security
• Opportunity to change employers after upgrading to Card Plus
How to Apply
Applications are usually submitted:
• At an Austrian embassy or consulate abroad, or
• Directly in Austria (in certain cases)
Documents typically include:
• Job offer or employment contract
• Proof of qualifications and experience
• Salary confirmation
• Health insurance and accommodation proof
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Immigration rules, point thresholds, salary requirements, and occupation lists may change. Always consult official Austrian immigration authorities or licensed professionals before applying.
January 17, 2026
