.svg){kind=logo}
The Red-White-Red Card is Austria’s main residence and work permit for qualified non-EU nationals who want to live and work in Austria.
It is a points-based immigration system designed to attract skilled workers, shortage occupation professionals, graduates, and other qualified applicants.
At WorkPermitCheck, applicants often compare the Red-White-Red Card with the EU Blue Card. While both target skilled workers, the Red-White-Red Card includes multiple categories beyond highly paid roles.
What Is the Red-White-Red Card?
The Red-White-Red Card is a combined residence and work permit that allows foreign nationals to:
• Live and work in Austria
• Work for a specific employer
• Stay for a defined period
• Build eligibility toward long-term residence
It is employer-linked during the initial stage.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility depends on the category. Austria uses a points-based assessment considering:
• Qualifications
• Professional experience
• Language skills
• Salary level
• Age
• Job offer
Applicants must reach the required points threshold.
Main Red-White-Red Card Categories
Very Highly Qualified Workers
Applicants may qualify through a points system even before securing employment (job seeker route).
Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations
Workers employed in professions facing labor shortages.
Other Key Workers
Qualified employees meeting salary thresholds and scoring required points.
Graduates of Austrian Universities
International students who completed studies in Austria and secured employment.
Self-Employed Key Workers
Entrepreneurs providing economic benefit to Austria.
Each category has specific requirements.
Key Requirements
Typical requirements include:
• Valid job offer (for most categories)
• Proof of qualifications
• Evidence of professional experience
• Salary meeting category threshold
• Points score meeting minimum requirement
• Passport and supporting documents
Points calculation is central to approval.
Duration
The Red-White-Red Card is typically issued for:
• Up to two years
• Employer-specific employment
After this period, eligible applicants may apply for the Red-White-Red Card Plus, which offers broader labor market access.
Benefits Compared to Standard Work Permits
The Red-White-Red Card offers:
• Structured skilled migration pathway
• Multi-category eligibility
• Pathway to long-term residence
• Access to Red-White-Red Card Plus
• Family reunification options
Benefits depend on category.
Does It Lead to Permanent Residence?
Yes. Time spent legally under this permit may count toward:
• Long-term residence in Austria
• Permanent residence eligibility
• Citizenship pathway (subject to rules)
Continuous legal residence is required.
Common Reasons for Refusal
Applications may be refused due to:
• Insufficient points score
• Salary below threshold
• Job not matching qualification
• Incorrect category selection
• Incomplete documentation
• Employer compliance issues
Category selection is critical.
How WorkPermitCheck Helps
WorkPermitCheck provides independent verification support to help:
• Identify the correct category
• Review employer documentation
• Check points eligibility indicators
• Detect classification risks
• Reduce refusal risks
We do not issue permits. We verify authenticity and compliance indicators.
Key Takeaway
The Red-White-Red Card is Austria’s primary skilled migration route using a points-based system. It covers multiple categories beyond highly paid roles and provides a structured pathway to long-term residence.
Selecting the correct category and meeting the points threshold are essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Red-White-Red Card the same as the EU Blue Card?
No. They are separate permits with different eligibility rules.
Do I always need a job offer?
Most categories require a job offer, but some highly qualified routes allow job seeking first.
Can I change employers?
Initially, employment is employer-specific.
What is Red-White-Red Card Plus?
It allows broader labor market access after the initial permit.
Does it lead to PR?
Yes, with continuous legal residence.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Austria Red-White-Red Card requirements vary by category and individual circumstances. Always confirm official requirements with Austrian authorities. WorkPermitCheck provides independent verification support and does not issue visas or residence permits.
February 26, 2026
