Austria Red White Red Card: How to Apply, Cost, and Processing Time in 2025

Austria is rapidly becoming a top destination for skilled professionals seeking long-term employment opportunities in Europe. In the first four months of 2024, 3,200 applications were approved for the Austria Red White Red Card, marking a 35% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This spike reflects Austria’s rising demand for international talent across key sectors.

This blog will help you navigate the application process with ease, covering eligibility, types, and required documents. If you are aiming to join Austria’s workforce, let’s explore how you can submit your application successfully and secure your spot.

What is the Austria Red White Red Card?

The Austria Red White Red Card is a residence and work permit for qualified non-EU nationals who want to live and work in Austria. It is issued based on a points-based system evaluating professional qualifications, work experience, age, and language skills. The card is usually valid for 24 months and ties the holder to a specific employer.

Key Features of the Austria Red White Red Card:

• Requires a minimum score on a structured points system based on education, experience, and German/English language skills.
• Valid for up to 2 years and allows employment with a specific employer only.
• Applicants must secure a binding job offer that matches their qualifications and meets minimum salary thresholds.
• Allows eligible cardholders to apply for the Red-White-Red Card Plus after 21 months for more flexible work options.
• Includes options for family reunification, allowing spouses and children to apply for residence permits.

Also Read: Top 10 Jobs in Austria for Expats in 2025

Types of Austria Red White Red Card

Austria offers different categories under the Red White Red Card, each tailored to attract specific groups of skilled non-EU nationals. The eligibility and required points vary based on the applicant’s professional background and purpose of stay. Below are the main categories.

1. Red-White-Red-Card for Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations

This category targets professionals in fields with documented labour shortages, such as nursing or engineering. Applicants must have relevant qualifications and a job offer in Austria. To obtain the Red-White-Red Card for the skilled worker category, you must achieve a minimum score of 55 points.

2. Red-White-Red-Card for Other Key Workers

Designed for skilled workers with appropriate qualifications who do not fall under the shortage occupations category. They must meet minimum salary requirements and have relevant work experience. This category broadens opportunities for qualified professionals in various industries. This category comes with a gross minimum salary of €3,225 per month in 2025.

Quick Read: Top 10 Benefits of Working in Austria

3. Red-White-Red-Card for Graduates

This card is for non-EU nationals who have completed their studies at an Austrian university and have a job offer matching their academic level.

• No point system or minimum salary requirement.
• No labour market check by the Austrian Public Employment Service (AMS)

You have to fulfil the following eligibility criteria to obtain this category

• Completion of studies at a recognized Austrian university or university of applied sciences.
• Job offer in Austria that matches the academic level, with a salary according to the collective bargaining agreement and customary overpayment

4. Red-White-Red-Card for Very Highly Qualified Workers

This category is for individuals with exceptional qualifications and international experience. Applicants must meet high salary requirements and achieve a score of up to 70 points. It is aimed at attracting experts who can contribute significantly to Austria’s economy.

Explore: Austria Job Seeker Visa

5. Red-White-Red-Card for Regular Seasonal Workers

The Red-White-Red Card for Regular Seasonal Workers is intended for workers employed in seasonal industries such as tourism, agriculture, and hospitality. This category facilitates Austria’s need for temporary labour during peak seasons. Non-EU nationals who have been employed as registered seasonal workers for at least 2 years and possess a certain level of German proficiency can apply for this category.

As of October 1, 2022, a new special Red-White-Red Card for Regular Seasonal Workers was introduced. Under specific conditions, this card allows for the transition from a visa and work permit as a seasonal worker to a long-term residence permit in Austria.

6. Red-White-Red-Card for Self-Employed Key Workers

The Red-White-Red Card for Self-Employed Key Workers is intended for self-employed professionals whose work is considered essential for Austria’s economy. Applicants need to demonstrate economic benefit, relevant qualifications, and sufficient capital to sustain their business activities. It allows for independent work and business development. Applicants must demonstrate an investment transfer of at least €100,000.

Check Out: How To Get Job in Austria from India

7. Red-White-Red-Card for Start-Up Founders

The Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders supports entrepreneurs intending to establish innovative businesses in Austria. Applicants must present a viable business plan and proof of sufficient funds. It encourages economic growth through new ventures and innovation. Requirements include proving an investment transfer of at least €30,000. To qualify as a start-up founder, applicants must score a minimum of 50 points.

Requirements for the Austria Red White Red Card

To qualify for the Austria Red White Red Card, applicants must meet a range of criteria depending on their category. These requirements are assessed through a structured points system and must align with Austria’s labour market needs. Below are the general eligibility requirements.

• Proof of Professional Qualifications: Applicants must provide diplomas, certificates, or degrees relevant to the occupation they intend to pursue in Austria.
• Work Experience: Depending on the category, applicants need at least 6 months to several years of relevant professional experience in their field.
• Binding Job Offer in Austria: A confirmed job offer from an Austrian employer is required, matching the applicant’s qualifications and meeting salary thresholds.
• Minimum Salary Requirement: Different categories have different salary thresholds. For example, applicants under the Other Key Workers category must earn a minimum of €3,225 gross per month in 2025 to qualify.
• Language Proficiency: Basic knowledge of German (A1) or English (depending on category) is required and must be proven with recognized certificates.
• Health Insurance Coverage: Applicants must show proof of valid health insurance covering all risks in Austria during their stay.
• Accommodation Proof: A registered residential address in Austria must be provided, along with documentation proving adequate housing.
• Valid Passport and Legal Stay: A valid passport and legal status in Austria or the country of application are mandatory during the application process.

Suggested Read: How to Settle in Austria from India: 10 Tips for the Transition

Document Checklist for Applying for an RWR card

The checklist for applying to red white red card Austria includes the following

• Application form
• Passport (with validity as per the stream eligibility)
• Passport size photographs (as per EU criteria) – must not be older than 6 months
• Language Proficiency Test score (if required)
• Education qualification certificates
• Work-related documents (as per the stream criteria requirements)
• Employer documentation
• Personal Documentation (police, medical clearance, etc.)

*This list is as per in common basic checklist, and the applicant might be requested to attach other documents as per the requirements of the stream under which they would be grouped, like key workers, startup founders, or very highly skilled workers, etc.

Also Read: Things You Should Know About Austria Job Seeker Visa

Cost and Processing Time of Red White Red Card in Austria

Upon successful submission of the required documents to the AMS, public employment service processing time generally takes between 3 - 5 months. The cost of the application for an RWR card to Austria is EUR 160.

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GetGIS is your go-to assistant to securely fly, work, and settle in Austria. Our services include Job search assistance, visa process, and language proficiency training. You would have the advantage of a dedicated manager along with a country expert to provide you with all the needed guidance to ease your visa application journey, ensuring no delays or deviations are incurred. 

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Quick Links for Further Read:

• Unlocking the Perks of Austria: Secure Country & Tax Benefits
• A Guide To Find The Best Cities To Work in Austria
• Work, Life and Leisure: Experience the High Standards of Austrian Living