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Austria · Work visa

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

Processing
8-12 weeks
Cost
From €160
Validity
24 months

Route for qualified workers with a job offer in one of Austria’s official shortage occupations. Because demand is established in advance, no labor market test applies.

Requirements

  • Job offer in a listed shortage occupation (64 nationwide and 66 regional shortage occupations in 2026)
  • At least 55 of 90 points for qualification, experience, language and age
  • Completed vocational or academic training matching the role
  • Salary at least in line with the applicable collective bargaining agreement

Time and cost

Processing time
8-12 weeks
Validity
24 months (renewable)
Cost

From €160

Required

  • About €160 application, issuance and card fees
Path to residency
Red-White-Red Card Plus after 24 months; permanent settlement after 5 years

Documents

  • Valid passport

    Valid for the intended stay

  • Qualification certificates

    Vocational or academic, with recognition where needed

  • Employment contract

    For a role on the shortage occupation list

  • Proof of experience (if it applies)

    Reference letters supporting the points claimed

  • Health insurance

    Covering all risks in Austria

Tips

  • No labor market test because the shortage is pre-established
  • Check the current Skilled Workers Ordinance because the national and regional lists change each year
  • IT, engineering, healthcare and skilled trades feature heavily on the list