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Austria flagAustria Rot-Weiß-Rot Card – Highly Skilled Workers

Category: Work · Processing time: 8 weeks

Editorially reviewedLast updated 2026-10-04Reviewed by MigrantIQ Editorial TeamOfficial visa portal ↗

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Apply through official authority

Bundesministerium für Inneres (Migration)

Always submit applications through the official source. Last verified 2026-10-03.

Apply on official site →

Visa type

Work

Processing time

8 weeks

Fees

ApplicationFee: EUR 160

Validity

Confirm on official source

Stay duration

Confirm on official source

Entry type

Confirm single/multiple entry rules

Insurance

Confirm if required

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Overview

The Red-White-Red (RWR) Card is a points-based residence permit in Austria, designed for highly skilled workers, professionals in shortage occupations, and graduates from Austrian institution

  • Leads to permanent residency: Yes
  • Requires job offer: Yes
  • Language required: No
  • Minimum education: Varies by stream

Estimated Costs

  • - ApplicationFee: EUR 160
  • - ResidencePermit: EUR 80

Required Documents

  • - Job offer at qualifying salary
  • - Educational credentials
  • - Evidence of points calculation
  • - Health insurance coverage
  • - Valid passport or ID

Application Steps

  1. Confirm points threshold for stream
  2. Apply at Austrian embassy or AMS
  3. Receive decision
  4. Travel and collect RWR Card

Always confirm the latest steps and forms on the official portal: Bundesministerium für Inneres (Migration) →

Travel Insurance Requirement

  • Mandatory: Confirm with official source
  • Minimum coverage: Confirm current coverage rules
  • Valid regions: Confirm accepted regions
  • Approved providers: Use providers accepted by the official authority

Embassy, Consulate & Appointments

Embassy, consulate, jurisdiction, and appointment details vary by applicant location. Confirm the correct office before booking travel or paying fees.

Open appointment or official portal →

Browse foreign embassies in Austria (MigrantIQ directory) →

Directory listings are for planning only — not legal advice. Confirm jurisdiction and appointment rules on the official portal.

Application checklist

Track your Red-White-Red (RWR) Card preparation

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Benefits & What This Visa Allows

  • - Right to live and work for sponsoring employer
  • - Family RWR Card-Plus with full labour-market access
  • - Path to permanent residence

Trust & safety

Before you pay or submit documents

Use the official portal for applications and payments. Be careful with agents who guarantee approval, ask for personal-account transfers, or pressure you to send originals before a written contract.

Official portal →

Relevant laws

  • Work Authorisation Rules

    Employment · Severity: Critical

    In Austria, understanding work authorization rules is essential for anyone wishing to engage in paid employment. You should note that a visa allowing entry into the country does not automatically grant permission to…

  • Immigration Status and Overstay Rules

    Immigration · Severity: Critical

    Your ability to remain in Austria is contingent upon the specific visa, residence permit, entry stamp, or visa-free allowance you possess. You should understand that any pending application, job offer, or school…

  • Tax Residency and Income Reporting

    Tax · Severity: High

    Tax residency in Austria is determined by your physical presence in the country. If you reside in Austria for more than 183 days in a calendar year, you may be considered a tax resident. This applies to various groups,…

Active scam alerts

  • In Austria, newcomers, including visa applicants, families, students, and workers, may encounter scams related to document translation, notarisation, or apostille services. Scammers often target individuals needing…

  • In Austria, scams involving fake border, airport, or fast-track assistance fees have become increasingly common. Scammers often pose as airport staff, immigration officers, or travel agents, misleading travelers into…

  • In Austria, fraudsters frequently target prospective students and their families by offering admission, scholarships, or student visa packages through unofficial agents. Victims often receive fraudulent acceptance…

  • In Austria, a prevalent rental scam targets newcomers, students, families, and remote workers. Scammers create fake listings for apartments, often using attractive photos and unusually low rental prices to lure…

Quick Eligibility Check

Use this self-check for Red-White-Red (RWR) Card. It does not replace official legal assessment.

Result: Requirements appear incomplete

Common Rejection Reasons

  • - Insufficient points based on the provided qualifications and job offer.
  • - Failure to meet health insurance requirements.
  • - Inconsistencies or errors in the submitted documentation.

Application Tips

  • - Ensure that your job offer meets the salary threshold set for your occupation.
  • - Collect all necessary documents in advance to avoid delays during the application process.
  • - Consider consulting official resources or legal experts for assistance with the points calculation.

Sources & References

Use these references for verification. Official government and appointment portals override summary guidance on MigrantIQ.

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Frequently Asked Questions

This visa is designed for applicants matching Work pathway criteria.

Typical processing time is 8 weeks, subject to documentation quality and application volume.

Start with eligibility evidence, document checklists, and proof of funds before submitting.

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