Austrian Red-White-Red Card – Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations

Who it's for

Trained non-EU workers who have completed vocational or professional training in a job listed as a shortage occupation in Austria and who hold a binding job offer from an Austrian employer prepared to pay the legally required wage.

Requirements

• Completed training in a designated shortage occupation
• A binding job offer from an Austrian employer
• Employer commitment to pay the legally required minimum wage for the role
• At least 55 of 90 points (qualification max 30, work experience max 20, language max 25, age max 15)
• Valid travel document, health insurance and accommodation

What you can do

• Work in Austria for the employer named on the card
• Settle in Austria for the card's fixed term
• Pursue subsidiary self-employment under the applicable legal conditions
• Apply for a Red-White-Red Card Plus with unrestricted work rights after qualifying employment

How to apply

File the application at an Austrian embassy or consulate abroad, or directly with the competent Austrian residence authority if you are already legally in the country or visa-exempt.

An employer declaration is required, and the AMS (Public Employment Service) confirms the points assessment and labour-market conditions.

Documents

• Valid passport and recent photo
• Proof of completed training/qualification in the shortage occupation
• Binding job offer / employment contract and employer declaration
• Evidence of work experience and language skills
• Proof of health insurance and accommodation