Red-White-Red Card: Austria's Work Visa

Last updated: March 2026

As of March 2026, the Red-White-Red Card(RWR Card) is Austria's points-based work permit for third-country nationals, costing approximately EUR 160 plus EUR 20 for the card. Processing takes 8–12 weeks on average. Applicants need 70/100 points (Very Highly Qualified) or 55/90 points (Skilled Workers and Other Key Workers). The card is valid for two years and tied to a specific employer, after which holders can upgrade to the RWR Card Plus for unrestricted labour market access.

How Does the Red-White-Red Card Points System Work?

The RWR Card evaluates applicants based on criteria such as qualifications, work experience, language skills, age, and in some categories, salary level. Each category has a minimum points threshold that must be met. The criteria are designed to attract talent that Austria needs while ensuring applicants can integrate into Austrian society.

There are several categories under the RWR Card, each targeting a different type of worker. The specific points criteria and minimum thresholds differ by category. You must have a concrete job offer from an Austrian employer (except in the Very Highly Qualified category under certain conditions).

What Are the Different RWR Card Categories?

1. Very Highly Qualified Workers

This category targets top-tier professionals such as senior researchers, executives, and those with exceptional qualifications. You need at least 70 out of 100 points. Points are awarded for:

• Education (up to 40 points): PhD (40), Master's (30), Bachelor's (20)
• Work experience (up to 20 points): Points for each year of relevant experience
• Language skills (up to 15 points): German at B1 or higher (10), English at B1 or higher (5)
• Age (up to 15 points): Under 30 (15), 30–35 (10), 36–40 (5)
• Salary/research awards (up to 10 points): Bonus points for recognised research prizes or patents

2. Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations

Austria publishes an annual shortage occupation list (Mangelberufsliste) of professions where there is a documented labour shortage. If your occupation is on this list, you can apply under this category. You need at least 55 out of 90 points, and you must have a binding job offer. The list is updated yearly and includes occupations such as IT specialists, engineers, healthcare professionals, electricians, plumbers, and other trades.

• Qualifications (up to 30 points): Relevant education and completed apprenticeships
• Work experience (up to 20 points): Related professional experience
• Language skills (up to 15 points): German and/or English proficiency
• Age (up to 15 points): Younger applicants receive more points
• Salary (up to 10 points): Bonus for salaries significantly above the minimum

3. Other Key Workers

If your profession is not on the shortage list but you have a job offer from an Austrian employer, you can apply as an Other Key Worker. You need at least 55 out of 90 points, and the minimum gross monthly salary must meet a threshold (currently around EUR 3,000 or higher, depending on age). The Public Employment Service (AMS) must confirm that no suitable candidates from the Austrian or EU labour market are available for the position.

4. Graduates of Austrian Universities

If you completed a degree at an Austrian university or Fachhochschule, you can apply for the RWR Card with simplified requirements. You need a job offer that matches your field of study, and the salary must meet the legal minimum threshold. This is one of the easier pathways, as the points threshold is lower and Austrian qualifications are directly recognised.

5. Start-up Founders

Since 2019, Austria offers a special RWR Card category for start-up founders. You must present an innovative business idea, demonstrate sufficient capital (minimum EUR 50,000, of which at least half must be equity), and show that the business will create value for Austria. The application is reviewed by the Austrian Business Agency (ABA).

How Do You Apply for the Red-White-Red Card?

1. Secure a job offer. Your Austrian employer typically initiates the process by confirming the position with the AMS (Public Employment Service).
2. Gather documents. Collect all required documents including your degree certificates, proof of work experience, language certificates, passport, criminal record clearance, and proof of accommodation.
3. Apply at the Austrian embassy. Submit your application at the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country. Some categories allow the employer to file on your behalf with the local immigration authority (MA 35 in Vienna or Bezirkshauptmannschaft elsewhere).
4. AMS labour market test. For the Other Key Workers category, the AMS will verify that no suitable candidate from the domestic or EU market is available. This step takes approximately four weeks.
5. Wait for approval. The provincial authority reviews your application and issues a decision. Processing takes approximately 8 to 12 weeks on average, but can be longer.
6. Receive your RWR Card. Once approved, you will receive a Visum D to enter Austria, and the RWR Card is issued after arrival andregistration.

What Documents Are Required for the Red-White-Red Card?

• Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
• Completed application form
• Biometric passport photographs
• Degree certificates and transcripts (with apostille and German translation)
• Proof of relevant work experience (employment letters, contracts)
• Language certificates (German A1/B1 or English, depending on category)
• Job offer or employment contract from the Austrian employer
• Proof of accommodation in Austria
• Health insurance coverage
• Criminal record certificate (not older than 3 months)
• Proof of sufficient financial means

How Much Does the Red-White-Red Card Cost?

The application fee for the RWR Card is approximately EUR 160 for the residence permit and an additional EUR 20 for the card itself. You should also budget for document translations (EUR 30–80 per document), apostilles, and potentially the cost of German language courses and examinations. The total cost typically ranges from EUR 500 to EUR 1,500 when accounting for all ancillary expenses. Once approved, you will also need to open an Austrian bank account for salary payments.

What Is the Red-White-Red Card Plus and How Do You Get It?

After holding the RWR Card for two years, you can apply for the RWR Card Plus. This upgraded permit grants unrestricted access to the Austrian labour market, meaning you can work for any employer or even become self-employed. To qualify, you must demonstrate that you have been legally employed for at least 21 months during the previous 24 months and that you meet the general requirements for renewal (valid accommodation, health insurance, and financial means). As an employee in Austria, you will also be subject to Austrian income tax, which is withheld automatically from your salary.