Residence & Employment | Pathways for Skilled Professionals

Austria is a top destination for highly qualified professionals, offering diverse opportunities to live and work in one of Europe’s most dynamic countries. This guide outlines key residence and employment options, including the Red-White-Red Card, EU Blue Card, and permits for long-term residency. With streamlined processes and family integration options, Austria ensures skilled workers from outside the EU can seamlessly join its thriving labor market while enjoying its exceptional quality of life.

Red-White-Red Card

The Red-White-Red Card is a residence and employment permit tailored for qualified workers from non-EU countries. It targets specific categories of workers, including:
Highly qualified professionals
Skilled workers in shortage occupations
Graduates of Austrian universities and colleges
Holders of this card are granted residency and employment rights with a particular employer for a period of up to 24 months, making it an ideal choice for skilled individuals looking to establish their careers in Austria.

👉 Learn more about the “Red-White-Red Card“
Red-White-Red Card Plus

The Red-White-Red Card Plus provides third-country nationals unrestricted access to the Austrian labor market, allowing both salaried and self-employed work. Valid for up to three years, it is available to family members of Red-White-Red Card, EU Blue Card, or Settlement Permit holders.

Applicants must provide proof of German proficiency (A1 level) unless exempted, and demonstrate adequate living space and health insurance coverage. This permit is designed for seamless integration, enabling long-term residency and employment opportunities in Austria.
For more information, visit Red-White-R

👉 Learn more about the “Red-White-Red Card Plus“
EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is another popular residence permit option for skilled workers, aimed at highly qualified professionals with a job offer that meets a specific minimum salary threshold. Available to non-EU citizens, the Blue Card provides an initial 24-month residency and work permit with the potential to renew and eventually lead to permanent residency.
This card is especially suitable for professionals with academic qualifications seeking to work in high-demand fields in Austria.

👉 Learn more about the “EU Blue Card“
Long-Term Resident – EU Permit

The Long-Term Resident – EU Permit is designed for non-EU citizens who have legally resided in Austria for five consecutive years. This permit provides a stable residence option, enabling holders to live and work in Austria indefinitely. Additionally, it offers the right to move and reside within the European Union under certain conditions, making it an ideal option for those seeking long-term security and flexibility.

👉 Learn more about the “Long-Term Resident – EU Permit“