Austria · Skilled Worker Visa
Red-White-Red Card — Self-employed Key Workers
Red-White-Red Card for Selbstständige Schlüsselkräfte (self-employed key workers). Requires that the intended self-emplo…
Red-White-Red Card for Selbstständige Schlüsselkräfte (self-employed key workers). Requires that the intended self-employed occupation provide macroeconomic benefit beyond own operational benefit: sustained transfer of investment capital of at least €100,000, OR creation/securing of new jobs in Austria, OR transfer of know-how/new technologies, OR significant regional importance. No points system. Valid 24 months tied to the described occupation; after 2y converts to Niederlassungsbewilligung.
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18–65 |
| Job Offer Required | No |
| Sponsorship Required | No |
| Health Insurance Required | Yes |
Family & Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Spouse Can Work | Yes |
| Path to Permanent Residency | Yes |
Related Pathways
Cost of Living
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Red-White-Red Card — Self-employed Key Workers?
Red-White-Red Card for Selbstständige Schlüsselkräfte (self-employed key workers). Requires that the intended self-employed occupation provide macroeconomic benefit beyond own operational benefit: sustained transfer of investment capital of at least €100,000, OR creation/securing of new jobs in Austria, OR transfer of know-how/new technologies, OR significant regional importance. No points system. Valid 24 months tied to the described occupation; after 2y converts to Niederlassungsbewilligung.
Can I bring my family on the Red-White-Red Card — Self-employed Key Workers?
Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents. Your spouse may also be eligible to work.
Can the Red-White-Red Card — Self-employed Key Workers lead to permanent residency?
Yes — this pathway can lead to permanent residence, subject to meeting the residence and other conditions. We do not publish a qualifying timeline for this route because we have no official source stating one; check with the relevant authority for the current residence requirement.
Are there alternative pathways to Austria?
Yes. Austria offers 32 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Austria country page.
What is the cost of living in Austria?
Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Vienna: €2,100/mo; Graz: €1,805/mo; Salzburg: €2,186/mo. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.
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Official source
Requirements on this page are based on this official/primary source:
Data last verified: 2026-06-09 · See our methodology
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