“Make Austria Your Home with the Red-White-Red Card Work Visa”

If you’re considering immigrating to Austria, you may have heard of the Red-White-Red Card. This card is a type of residence permit that allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Austria. Here’s everything you need to know about the Red-White-Red Card and how to apply for it:

What is the Red-White-Red Card?

The Red-White-Red Card is a residence permit that allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Austria. It is issued for a specific period of time, usually one or two years, and can be renewed as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

There are three categories of Red-White-Red Card:

• • The Red-White-Red Card Plus is for highly qualified workers, such as executives, managers, or specialists.

• • The Red-White-Red Card is for skilled workers with a job offer in Austria in a specific occupation listed on the Austrian Occupation List.

• • The Red-White-Red Card EU is for non-EU citizens who have a degree from an Austrian university or a recognized university in another EU member state.

Eligibility

To be eligible for a Red-White-Red Card, you must meet the following requirements:

• • Have a job offer in Austria in a specific occupation listed on the Austrian Occupation List (for the Red-White-Red Card and Red-White-Red Card Plus categories) or have a degree from an Austrian or EU university (for the Red-White-Red Card EU category).

• • Meet the minimum salary requirement for your occupation.

• • Have a clean criminal record.

• • Have sufficient health insurance coverage.

• Have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Austria.

Red-White-Red Card Application Documents Requirements

Originals and copies of the documents must be submitted at the time of application. If the  documents are not available in German or English, translations into German or English must be  provided. For review purposes, the authority may eventually require certified versions of the  documents.  

General Requirements  

The following documents must be presented at the time of application:  

• Valid travel document (e.g. passport)  

• Photograph (dimensions: 45x35mm) which is not older than six months  

• Proof of health insurance covering all risks (compulsory health insurance or equivalent insurance,  e.g. comprehensive travel insurance)  

Points System  

Please submit all documents reflecting your individual score. The examination procedure and  assignment of points can only commence after you have filed your application. For a first estimate of  your score, please use the Points calculator on our website.  

1. Qualification  

Vocational Education/Training  

• Certificate or diploma of completed vocational education/training  

Special Knowledge or Abilities  

• Testimonials, diplomas and work certificates  

Proof of Eligibility for Admission to University (Matura, Abitur, Matriculation Certificate)  • Certificate furnishing proof of general eligibility for admission to university  

2. Graduation  

• Document furnishing proof of successful completion of a three-year programme at an institution  of tertiary education  

• Document issued by the competent authority in your country reflecting the status of the  university or institution of tertiary education (only required if the respective institution is not  listed on www.anabin.de, see Downloads – Recognized Degrees)  

3. Work Experience According to Your Qualification  

• Testimonials and work certificates 

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4. Language Skills  

• Language diploma or language course certificate at the A1 or A2 levels of the Common European  Framework of Reference for Languages for German or the B1 or B2 levels for English not older  than five years 

German language diplomas and certificates may in particular be obtained from the following  institutions: ÖSD, Goethe-Institut, Telc GmbH, Österreichischer Integrationsfonds (ÖIF).  The following diplomas and certificates in particular are recognised as evidence of proficiency in  English: Cambridge Certificate, TELC, IELTS diploma, TOEIC diploma, TOEFL diploma.  If you have successfully studied at a school or university with English as the language of  instruction during at least two years, the proof of recent graduation from this institution can also  be accepted as a confirmation of your language skills. The degree may not be more than five  years old.  

5. Professional Athletes or Professional Sports Coaches  

• Testimonials or work certificates  

Application process

The application process for a Red-White-Red Card varies depending on your category and the specific requirements of your occupation. However, the general process is as follows:

1. 1. Gather all required documentation, including your passport, a completed application form, proof of your job offer or degree, and any other relevant documents.

1. 1. Submit your application to the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country.

1. 1. Attend an interview, if required.

1. 1. If your application is approved, you will receive a Red-White-Red Card that allows you to live and work in Austria for a specific period of time.

Benefits of the Red-White-Red Card

The Red-White-Red Card offers a number of benefits to immigrants in Austria, including:

• • The ability to live and work in Austria for a specific period of time.

• • The ability to bring your family to Austria with you.

• • The possibility of applying for permanent residence after a certain period of time.

• • The ability to travel within the Schengen Area without the need for a separate visa.

Overall, the Red-White-Red Card is a valuable option for non-EU citizens looking to live and work in Austria. By understanding the eligibility requirements and following the application process, you can take the first steps toward a new life in Austria.