Red-White-Red Card (Shortage Occupations) — requirements, costs & how to apply

Who is eligible

Costs

Duration & renewal

Initial stay: 24 months.

Documents

• Valid travel document (e.g. passport)
• Photo (dimensions: 45x35mm) which is not older than six months
• Evidence of health insurance covering all risks (compulsory health insurance or equivalent insurance policy)
• Certificate or diploma of completed vocational education/training (if applicable)
• Certificate furnishing proof of general eligibility for admission to university (if applicable)
• Document furnishing proof of successful completion of a three-year programme at a university or another institution of tertiary education (if applicable)
• Document reflecting the status of the university or other institution of tertiary education (if applicable)
• Testimonials and work certificates (if applicable)
• Language diploma or language course certificate (at least A1 for German, or A2 for English) of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
• Originals and copies of the above-mentioned documents
• Legalized versions and German/English translations if required

Who can apply

Open to all nationalities.

How to apply

1. Confirm you meet the eligibility above.
2. Gather documents and apply via the official portal: https://www.migration.gv.at/en/types-of-immigration/permanent-immigration/austria-wide-shortage-occupations/.
3. Typical processing: ~180 days.