Migrate to Austria

Types of Work Permit in Austria

• Red-White-Red Card: The Red-White-Red Card is a work pass for professionals and skilled workers from outside of the EU/EEA who have a job offer in Austria. It is given for a certain job with a certain company and is usually good for a certain amount of time. It can be renewed under certain conditions.
• EU Blue Card: The EU Blue Card is a work pass for highly skilled non-EU/EEA citizens who have a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent and a job offer in Austria that pays at least a certain amount. People who have an EU Blue Card can live and work in Austria and other EU member states.
• Seasonal Work Permit: People from outside the EU or EEA who want to work in Austria for a short time, usually in summer jobs like tourism, agriculture, or hospitality, can get a seasonal work pass. Most of the time, these passes are only good for a certain amount of time and are tied to certain special jobs.
• Rotating Employment Permit: Businesses that need to hire people from outside the EU or EEA for short-term jobs or tasks can get rotating employment permits. With these licenses, workers can work for more than one company during a certain time period.
• Family Members of EU/EEA Nationals: People from the EU or EEA who are in Austria enjoying their right to free movement may be able to get a work pass that lets them work in the country. This includes children, husbands, and other family members who count on you.
• Student Work Permit: International college students in Austria who are registered full-time may be able to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the school year and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. But there are limits on the kinds of work that can be done and the hours that can be worked.
• Researcher Visa: Scientists and researchers from outside the EU or EEA may be able to get a research visa or permission to work in Austria at universities, research institutions, or businesses.
• Freelance Work Permit: If someone wants to work as a freelancer in Austria, they might need to get a temporary work pass. People with this permission can offer services or work as freelancers, as long as they follow certain rules and conditions.

Why Should You Go for an Austrian Work Permit?

• Strong Economy: Austria has a stable and prosperous economy with low unemployment rates and a high standard of living. The country boasts a strong industrial base, a skilled workforce, and a favorable business environment, making it an attractive destination for job seekers.
• Quality of Life: Austria consistently ranks highly in global quality of life indices, with excellent healthcare, education, infrastructure, and public services. The country is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and high standard of living, making it an appealing place to live and work.
• Job Opportunities: Austria offers diverse job opportunities across various sectors, including manufacturing, technology, finance, tourism, and services. The country’s central location in Europe and its strong ties to neighboring countries provide access to a wide range of industries and markets.
• Work-Life Balance: Austrians place a strong emphasis on work-life balance, with generous vacation time, flexible working hours, and strong labor protections. Employees in Austria typically enjoy a high quality of life and a healthy balance between work and leisure activities.
• Safety and Security: Austria is known for its safety and security, with low crime rates and a stable political environment. The country offers a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike, making it a desirable place to live and work.
• Multicultural Environment: Austria is a multicultural society with a rich diversity of languages, cultures, and traditions. International workers will find a welcoming and inclusive environment, with opportunities to connect with people from around the world and experience different perspectives.
• Access to the European Union: As a member of the European Union (EU), Austria offers access to the EU Single Market, which facilitates the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor within the EU. This provides additional opportunities for employment, business, and travel across Europe.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Holding an Austria work permit can serve as a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship for eligible individuals. Austria offers various residency and citizenship programs for foreign workers who meet certain criteria, including length of stay, employment history, and integration requirements.

• Non-EU/EEA Nationals 
• Skilled Workers and Professionals 
• Seasonal Workers: Individuals from non-EU/EEA countries 
• Students: International students in Austria may be allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks without the need for a separate work permit. 
• Researchers and Scientists
• Family Members of EU/EEA Nationals
• Self-Employed Individuals

• Valid passport
• Birth certificate or a document having an equivalent value
• A photograph taken in the last 6 months
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses
• Proof of health insurance
• Submission of biometric data
• A degree from an authorized university or higher education
• Average annual income for a senior management position
• Activities in research and innovation
• Awards and prizes
• Work certificates and testimonials
• Proof of language proficiency
• Studies in Austria

• Determine Eligibility: Before applying for a work permit, individuals should determine their eligibility based on their nationality, qualifications, employment situation, and the type of permit they are seeking. Different types of work permits have specific eligibility criteria and requirements.
• Secure a Job Offer: In most cases, individuals will need to secure a concrete job offer from an Austrian employer before applying for a work permit. The job offer should meet certain criteria, such as offering a competitive salary and fulfilling labor market requirements.
• Employer Sponsorship: In many cases, the employer in Austria will need to sponsor the work permit application on behalf of the employee. The employer may need to provide supporting documents, such as a contract of employment, proof of company registration, and evidence of efforts to recruit locally.
• Collect Required Documents: Applicants will need to gather the necessary documents for the work permit application. This typically includes personal identification documents, proof of qualifications and work experience, a valid job offer letter, and any additional documents required for the specific type of permit.
• Submit Application: Once all required documents are collected, the applicant or their employer will need to submit the work permit application to the relevant Austrian authorities. The application process may vary depending on the type of permit and the applicant’s location, but it usually involves submitting the application form and supporting documents either online or in person.
• Application Review and Processing: Austrian authorities will review the work permit application, including the applicant’s qualifications, the job offer, and any supporting documents. The processing time may vary depending on the type of permit and the workload of the immigration authorities.
• Biometric Data Collection: In some cases, applicants may need to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and photographs, as part of the application process. This typically involves visiting a designated biometric collection center.
• Decision: Once the application is processed, the applicant will receive a decision on their work permit application. If approved, the applicant will receive the work permit, outlining the terms and conditions of their employment in Austria. If the application is denied, the applicant will receive a notification explaining the reasons for the denial.
• Residence Permit: In addition to the work permit, individuals may also need to apply for a residence permit to legally reside in Austria during their employment. The residence permit application process may be separate from the work permit application process and may require additional documentation.
• Commence Employment: Once the work permit and residence permit (if applicable) are obtained, the individual can commence employment in Austria in accordance with the terms and conditions outlined in their permits.