Austria Lists Categories for Red-White-Red Card Eligibility

The Austrian government has released a comprehensive list detailing seven categories of foreign nationals eligible for the Red-White-Red Card, which serves as the main residence and work permit for non-European Economic Area (EEA) citizens wishing to settle in Austria long-term. This information is pertinent for third-country nationals intending to stay in Austria for more than six months.

Those planning to remain for up to six months require only a visa, while individuals staying for 90 days or fewer within any 180-day period may not need a visa, depending on their nationality. The Red-White-Red Card is valid for 24 months and allows holders to live and work in Austria under a fixed-term arrangement with a specific employer.

Family members of cardholders can apply for a Red-White-Red Card Plus through family reunification. The seven categories for eligibility include Very Highly Qualified Workers, Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations, Other Key Workers, Graduates of Austrian Universities and Colleges of Higher Education, Regular Workers in Tourism, Agriculture and Forestry, Self-employed Key Workers, and Start-up Founders, each with specific conditions for application.