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Country guide

Work in Austria

Austria attracts skilled workers through its points-based Red-White-Red Card, especially in shortage occupations. We help you check your points and match with employers.

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Capital
Vienna
Main language
German
Currency
Euro (€)
Headline route
Red-White-Red Card
Typical processing
Weeks to a few months

Working in Austria in 2026

Austria's Red-White-Red (RWR) Card is a points-based system with several streams — Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations, Very Highly Qualified Workers, Other Key Workers and graduates. Points are awarded for qualifications, work experience, language skills and age. Graduates in higher-paid roles can also use the EU Blue Card.

Your options

Main visa & permit routes

The right route depends on your qualifications, job offer and salary — we'll confirm which fits you.

Skilled workers in shortage roles

RWR Card — Shortage Occupations

For workers in occupations on Austria's annually updated shortage list, with a job offer and enough points.

Very highly qualified / key workers

RWR Card — Key Workers

Streams for very highly qualified professionals and other key workers who meet the points and salary criteria.

Graduates above the threshold

EU Blue Card

For university graduates in higher-paid roles, with EU mobility benefits.

Salaries & cost of living

Austrian salaries are solid and the country offers a high quality of life, particularly around Vienna, Graz and Linz. Each RWR stream has minimum pay criteria, which we confirm for your occupation.

Compare salaries across countries →

In-demand sectors

Tourism & HospitalityHealthcareEngineeringIT & TechSkilled TradesManufacturing

Austria work visa FAQs

What is the Red-White-Red Card? +

A points-based work-and-residence permit for skilled non-EU workers, with different streams depending on your profile.

Do I need to speak German? +

German is valuable and required for many roles, though some tech and tourism jobs operate in English. Language earns points towards the card.

How do the points work? +

You gain points for qualifications, experience, language ability and age, and must reach the threshold for your chosen stream.

How long does it take? +

Usually a few weeks to a few months once your documents and job offer are in place.

Ready to work in Austria?

Check your eligibility in a minute, or submit your CV for a full assessment.

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Other country guides

Figures shown are indicative and current for 2026. Immigration rules and salary thresholds change frequently — we confirm the exact, up-to-date requirements for your specific situation. Bespoke Visa Solutions provides recruitment and relocation support and does not provide legal advice.