Austria Red-White-Red Card
Rot-Weiß-Rot – Karte, a points-based route for skilled non-EU workers
Austria recruits non-EU skilled workers mainly through the points-based Red-White-Red Card (Rot-Weiß-Rot – Karte), which combines work and residence authorisation in a single permit. Applicants are scored on qualifications, work experience, language skills, and age, with a separate, lower threshold for occupations on the shortage list (Mangelberufsliste), updated annually at federal and regional level. For higher-qualified roles, the EU Blue Card offers an alternative pathway. Austria reports sustained shortages across welding, electrical installation, metalworking, and technical maintenance, with particularly strong demand in Vienna, Upper Austria, and Styria. The card is typically issued for two years and is renewable.
Step-by-Step Process
Check Points & Shortage List
Determine whether the occupation appears on the Mangelberufsliste, which lowers the required points threshold. Score points across qualification, relevant experience, German or English language level, and age.
Employer Job Offer & Application
The Austrian employer provides a binding job offer meeting the minimum salary. The application is submitted to the Austrian representation abroad; the regional labour service (AMS) assesses points and, where required, the labour-market test.
AMS Assessment & Permit Issue
AMS evaluates the application and confirms eligibility. For shortage occupations the labour-market test is waived. Processing typically takes 8–12 weeks once documents are complete.
Entry, Registration & Card Collection
The worker enters Austria, registers their residence (Meldezettel), and collects the Red-White-Red Card from the immigration authority. The card is valid for two years and tied to the employer; later renewals allow broader labour-market access.
Documentation Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Is German language required?
A2 German is commonly required and adds points, with B1 recommended for many roles. WorkersFromAsia employers often fund pre-departure German courses so candidates meet the threshold before applying.
What is the Mangelberufsliste?
It is Austria's annual shortage-occupation list, published at federal and regional level. If your trade is listed, the points threshold is lower and the labour-market test is generally waived, speeding up the process.
How does the Red-White-Red Card differ from the EU Blue Card?
The Red-White-Red Card is a points-based national permit aimed at skilled workers including vocational trades. The EU Blue Card targets higher-qualified roles meeting a higher salary threshold and offers easier mobility across EU member states.
Is this information final?
No. This is general guidance only. Points criteria, salary minimums, and the shortage list are reviewed regularly, and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Confirm current rules with the Austrian authorities or representation abroad before applying.
Legal disclaimer: Immigration law changes frequently. The information on this page is general guidance and reflects the best available understanding at the time of writing. All placements via WorkersFromAsia are reviewed for current visa route eligibility before the job is published. Contact us if you have specific questions about a candidate's eligibility.