Red-White-Red Card - Other Key Workers
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 730 days
- Processing time
- 8 to 16 weeks
- Fee
- EUR 150 (Visa D) + EUR 120 (RWR Card application)
- Validity
- 24 months, renewable; can convert to RWR Card Plus after 24 months
- Entry
- Single entry
Red-White-Red Card for skilled workers in occupations listed on Austria's shortage occupation list (Mangelberufsliste). Applicants must score at least 55 points based on qualifications, work experience, language skills, and age. Minimum salary of EUR 3,465/month gross (2026). The shortage occupation list is updated annually and includes professions where there is a demonstrated labor shortage in Austria.
Eligibility
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Nationality
Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) with a job offer in a shortage occupation.
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Employment
Must have a binding job offer for a position on Austria's shortage occupation list (Mangelberufsliste). Must achieve at least 55 points covering: qualifications, work experience, language skills, and age.
Required status: Job offer in shortage occupation, EUR 3,465/month minimum
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Financial
Salary must meet minimum threshold of EUR 3,465/month gross (2026).
Minimum funds: EUR 3,465/month gross (2026)
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Criminal record
Must have no criminal record.
Documents you need
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Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.
Must cover full stay: No
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, debit/credit card, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 150 (Visa D) + EUR 120 (RWR Card)
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Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
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Professional license
Must be translated: No
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Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
How to apply
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Document gathering
Gather passport, photos, job offer, CV, vocational qualifications, language certificates, police clearance, health insurance, and accommodation proof.
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Online application
Complete the RWR Card application form for Other Key Workers.
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Appointment booking
Book appointment at the Austrian embassy or consulate for Visa D.
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Fee payment
Pay Visa D fee and RWR Card application fee.
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Document submission
Submit application to Austrian immigration authority (can be done by employer in Austria or applicant at embassy).
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Biometrics
Provide biometric data at embassy or consulate.
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Processing wait
AMS labor market check and immigration authority review. Total processing: 8-16 weeks.
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Visa collection
Receive Visa D, travel to Austria, collect RWR Card, register at Meldeamt.