Austria Work Visa & Work Permit: The Ultimate Guide for Foreigners

Austria is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for international professionals seeking a stable job, high living standards, and a straightforward immigration process.

With a thriving economy, low unemployment, and an inclusive labour policy, the country welcomes thousands of skilled and unskilled foreign workers annually.

This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about the Austria Work Visa and Work Permit, including eligibility, application steps, required documents, and benefits of living and working in Austria.

Why Choose Austria for Employment

1. A Strong and Growing Economy

Austria’s economy is highly diversified, offering opportunities in various sectors, including construction, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, IT, and hospitality. The country provides long-term stability, high wages, and excellent working conditions for both EU and non-EU citizens.

2. High Demand for Foreign Workers

Due to demographic shifts and skill shortages, employers across Austria are actively recruiting from countries such as India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Vietnam, the Philippines, and African nations.

Sectors such as construction, agriculture, transportation, and healthcare consistently require a workforce from abroad.

3. Legal Access to the European Union

An Austrian work visa allows you to live and work legally within the European Union and travel freely across all Schengen countries.

4. Exceptional Quality of Life

Austria consistently ranks among the world’s best places to live, offering modern infrastructure, a safe environment, public healthcare, and affordable housing.

5. Pathway to Permanent Settlement

After five years of legal residence, foreign workers can apply for Permanent Residence (Daueraufenthalt-EU) and eventually Austrian citizenship.

6. Transparent Visa Process

Austria’s immigration process is organized and efficient, supported by digital systems and regulated by the Austrian Public Employment Service (AMS).

Understanding the Austrian Work Permit

An Austrian Work Permit is an official document that authorizes a non-EU citizen to work legally for a registered employer in Austria.

It states your job title, employer name, work location, and contract duration. Without a valid permit, you cannot begin employment.

Issuing Authority

Work permits are granted by the Austrian Public Employment Service (AMS) in conjunction with the regional immigration office.

Validity

Most work permits are valid for up to one year and can be extended based on your job contract or residence status.

Main Types of Work Permits in Austria

Type	Purpose	Typical Validity	Ideal For
Red-White-Red Card	For qualified non-EU workers with a job offer	1–2 years	Skilled professionals
EU Blue Card	For highly qualified professionals earning above a set threshold	Up to 2 years	IT, engineering, and management roles
Seasonal Work Permit	For temporary jobs in agriculture or tourism	Up to 9 months	Farm or hotel workers
Intra-Company Transfer Permit	For employees relocated within global companies	1–3 years	Managers and specialists
Short-Term Work Visa (Type D)	For limited-time or project-based work	Up to 6 months	Contractors and consultants

Austria Type D Work Visa Overview

The Type D National Visa allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Austria for more than 90 days. It is directly linked to your approved work permit or Red-White-Red Card.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, you must:

• Hold a valid job offer or signed contract with an Austrian employer.
• Possess an approved work permit or Red-White-Red Card.
• Have a passport valid for at least 12 months.
• Provide proof of accommodation in Austria.
• Show health insurance coverage and financial means.
• Present a clean criminal record certificate.

Visa Validity

Usually valid for up to one year, renewable based on employment or residence renewal.

Documents Required

From the Employer

• Completed work permit application form
• Proof of company registration (GISA extract)
• Signed employment contract
• Labour market test (if applicable)
• Proof of fee payment
• Financial solvency documents

From the Employee

• Valid passport (minimum 12-month validity)
• Two biometric photographs
• Original work permit or RWR approval
• Health or travel insurance
• Accommodation proof
• Proof of funds (bank statements)
• Police clearance certificate
• Completed visa application form and payment receipt

Step-by-Step Process for an Austrian Work Visa

1. Receive a Job Offer – Secure employment with a registered Austrian company.
2. Employer Applies for Work Permit – The employer submits your application to the AMS.
3. Permit Approval – AMS evaluates your qualifications and issues the work permit.
4. Apply for a Type D Visa – Submit your visa application to the Austrian Embassy or a VFS Global centre.
5. Visa Processing – The Embassy reviews your case and issues a decision within a few weeks.
6. Travel to Austria – Upon receiving your visa approval, travel to Austria and begin your employment.
7. Apply for a Residence Card – Register locally and apply for a Red-White-Red Card Plus or residence card to extend your stay.

Processing Time

Stage	Estimated Duration
Work Permit (AMS)	30–60 working days
Visa Application	15–30 working days
Residence Card (in Austria)	1–3 months
Total Estimated Time	45–90 working days

Fees and Costs

Service	Average Fee (€)	Paid By
Work Permit / RWR Card	120–160	Employer
Type D Work Visa	80–100	Employee
Embassy / VFS Fee	20	Employee
Residence Card Renewal	160	Employee

Additional costs include health insurance, document translation, and legalization.

Top Industries Hiring Foreign Workers in Austria

Industry	Common Roles	Average Monthly Salary (€)	Permit Type
Construction	Electricians, Welders, Plumbers	1,800–2,800	RWR / Seasonal
Logistics & Warehousing	Forklift Drivers, Loaders	1,600–2,300	RWR
Transportation	Truck and Delivery Drivers	2,000–3,000	RWR
Manufacturing	Machine Operators, Technicians	1,700–2,500	RWR
Hospitality	Chefs, Waiters, Cleaners	1,500–2,200	Seasonal
Agriculture	Farm Workers, Pickers	1,400–1,800	Seasonal
Healthcare	Nurses, Caregivers, Therapists	2,200–3,800	RWR
IT & Engineering	Developers, Analysts	3,000–5,500	Blue Card

Benefits of Working in Austria

• Legal employment under EU labour laws
• Access to public healthcare and social benefits
• Fair and safe working environment
• Pathway to Permanent Residence and EU citizenship
• Opportunity for family reunification
• Affordable living with high savings potential
• Freedom to travel across the Schengen Zone
• Constant demand for foreign professionals

Official Resources

• Austrian Employment Service (AMS): https://www.ams.at
• Migration and Visa Information: https://migration.gv.at
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.bmeia.gv.at
• Residence Permit Information: https://www.oesterreich.gv.at

Austria Immigration & Work Permit Services | Moving2Europe.eu

Austria remains one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for skilled professionals due to its high salaries, strong economy, stable labour market, and excellent quality of life. However, Austrian immigration rules—labour market tests, point systems, employer sponsorship, and strict documentation—often seem complicated.

Moving2Europe.eu streamlines the entire Austrian immigration process with expert guidance, efficient processing, and complete compliance for individuals, families, and employers.

 Full Austria Work Permit & Residence Solutions

We provide comprehensive support for:

• Austria Red-White-Red Card
• EU Blue Card Austria
• Skilled Worker Visa
• Seasonal Worker Permits (Agriculture, Tourism, Hospitality)
• Type D National Visa
• Work Permit with Employer Sponsorship
• Short-Term & Long-Term Employment Visas
• Self-Employment & Freelance Visas (where applicable)
• Student, trainee & internship visas

Whether you’re an individual applicant or an employer hiring foreign workers, we manage every step professionally and transparently.

 Austria Immigration Services for Individuals

1. Work Permit & Residency Applications

Comprehensive processing for:

• Red-White-Red Card (points-based)
• Red-White-Red Card Plus
• EU Blue Card
• Short-term & long-term work visas
• Temporary residence permits
• Permanent residence pathways

2. Document Preparation Embassystancece

• Checklist creation
• Document review
• Translations & legalisations
• VFSEmbassy appointment scheduling
• Interview preparation

3. Arrival, Registration & Compliance

• Entry procedures
• Biometrics appointment
• Address registration (Meldezettel)
• Work registration with Austrian authorities
• Post-arrival compliance

 Austria Family & Dependent Visa Services

We support:

• Spouse visas
• Child visas
• Family reunification
• Long-term residence rights
• School documentation & relocation assistance

We ensure your entire family arrives legally and comfortably.

 Austria Immigration Solutions for Employers & Recruiters

Austria’s labour market shortage requires international recruitment—especially in:

• Construction & engineering
• Hospitality & tourism
• Healthcare & nursing
• Manufacturing
• Drivers & logistics
• IT & technology
• Agriculture & seasonal labour

We help companies with:

• Employer sponsorship guidance
• Labour market test support
• Employee work permit processing
• Compliance with Austrian immigration laws
• Large-volume recruitment mobility programs
• Executive relocation planning

Our team ensures your workers receive valid, compliant Austrian permits—without delays or errors.

 Executive Mobility Services for Austria

For top executives and corporate leaders, we offer:

• Priority case support
• Confidential case handling
• Strategic mobility planning
• Fast-track file preparation
• Coordination with HR & legal teams

Designed to meet strict timelines with zero disruption.

 Digital Austria Immigration Tracking System

Moving2Europe.eu provides a modern online platform offering:

• 24/7 real-time case tracking
• Digital document uploads
• Automated reminders
• Step-by-step milestones
• Compliance alerts
• Legal updates & guides

This ensures transparency for HR teams and applicants throughout the process.

 Why Choose Moving2Europe.eu for Immigration to Austria?

•  Expertise in all Austrian work permit categories
•  Fast, compliant and error-free processing
•  Dedicated case managers for every client
•  Complete employer & employee support
•  Step-by-step explanations
•  70+ country global immigration network
•  Strong specialization in Austrian & EU immigration law
•  Technology-driven case management

We handle the complexity so you can focus on your goals.

 Start Your Austria Work Permit Process Today

Whether you are applying individually, relocating with family, or hiring employees from abroad, Moving2Europe.eu ensures a smooth, legal and professionally managed Austria immigration experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the main types of Austrian work permits?

Austria offers several work permits, including the Red-White-Red Card, the EU Blue Card, the Seasonal Work Permit, the Type D National Visa, and special permits for skilled workers, students, researchers, and intra-company transferees.

2. What is the Austria Red-White-Red Card?

It is a points-based residence and work permit for skilled workers, allowing them to live and work in Austria for up to 24 months.

3. What documents are required for an Austrian work permit?

Typically: passport, job contract, proof of qualification, CV, accommodation proof, health insurance, and employer sponsorship documents.

4. How long does it take to get an Austrian work permit?

Processing typically takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the category and the completeness of the documents.

5. Do I need a job offer to get an Austrian work visa?

Yes. Most work permit categories require a valid Austrian employer job offer or employment contract.

6. What is the Austria Type D Visa?

A long-stay national visa that allows entry to Austria for work, study, or to process a residence permit

7. Can I apply for an Austrian work permit from abroad?

Yes. Applicants can apply from their home country or the Austrian Embassy/VFS.

8. Can employers sponsor foreign workers in Austria?

Yes. Employers must meet Austrian labour, salary, and compliance standards to sponsor international workers.

9. What is the minimum salary required for the Red-White-Red Card?

Salary requirements vary by occupation and region, but typically start from €2,500 to €3,500 gross per month for qualified workers.

10. Can students work in Austria?

Yes. Students with valid residence permits can work part-time with employer approval.

11. What are “shortage occupations” in Austria?

These are high-demand professions, such as nursing, IT, engineering, construction, hospitality, and technical roles, that receive priority for work permits.

12. Can I bring my family to Austria on a work permit?

Yes. Spouses and children can apply for dependent residence permits.

13. Do dependents have the right to work in Austria?

Dependents under the Red-White-Red Card Plus can work without restrictions.

14. What is the EU Blue Card Austria?

A work and residence permit is available for highly skilled professionals with recognized qualifications and a high salary threshold. 

15. Can I change employers after receiving a work permit?

After completing the first year on the Red-White-Red Card, you may switch employers with approval.

16. Do I need German language skills for an Austrian work permit?

Not always. Some categories require a basic knowledge of German or English, depending on the job.

17. Is health insurance mandatory in Austria?

Yes. Applicants must have Austrian health insurance coverage before receiving their permit.

18. What is a Seasonal Work Permit in Austria?

A short-term permit for agricultural, tourism, and hospitality workers, typically valid for 6–9 months.

19. Can seasonal workers apply for long-term residency?

No. Seasonal permits do not lead to long-term residence.

20. How do I register my address in Austria?

After arrival, applicants must register their address (Meldezettel) at the local municipality.

21. Can I apply for permanent residence in Austria?

Yes, usually after 5 years of continuous legal residence.

22. Does Austria accept work permit applications from non-EU citizens?

Yes. Austria actively recruits skilled workers from non-EU countries.

23. What are Austria’s most in-demand jobs?

Construction, engineering, nursing, drivers, hospitality, IT, carpentry, and seasonal agriculture.

24. Is it challenging to get a job in Austria?

Qualified workers have strong opportunities, particularly in occupations with shortages.

25. How long can I stay in Austria with a Type D visa?

Up to 6 months, depending on the visa category.

26. Can I renew my Austrian work permit?

Yes. Most permits can be renewed if employment conditions remain valid.

27. What is the Red-White-Red Card Plus?

A follow-up permit allowing unrestricted labour market access and multi-year residency.

28. Do I need to submit biometrics for an Austria visa?

Yes, biometrics are required at VFS/Embassy.

29. Can my employer apply for the permit on my behalf?

Yes. Employers often submit applications directly to Austrian authorities.

30. Is Austria part of the Schengen Area?

Yes, Austria is a Schengen member state.

31. Can I travel in Schengen with an Austrian residence permit?

Yes. A valid Austrian residence permit allows travel across the Schengen zone.

32. What happens if my work permit is rejected?

You can reapply or appeal with corrected documentation. Moving2Europe.eu provides full support.

33. Does Austria offer visas for truck drivers?

Yes. Drivers are eligible under the skilled and shortage occupation categories.

34. Is Austria good for skilled migrant workers?

Yes. Austria has strong demand, high salaries and clear immigration pathways.

35. Do I need translated documents for Austria?

Yes. Documents may need German or English translations plus legalization/apostille.

36. Can I apply for an Austrian work permit without qualifications?

Some roles, such as seasonal work, may accept experience in place of formal education.

37. What is the processing time for the Red-White-Red Card?

Generally, 4–12 weeks, depending on the applicant’s profile and region.

38. Can international nurses apply for work in Austria?

Yes. Nursing is one of Austria’s top shortage occupations.

39. Are employers required to provide accommodation?

Not mandatory, but many seasonal and hospitality employers offer housing options.

40. What is the Austrian Labour Market Test?

A check to ensure no suitable Austrian or EU candidate is available for the job.

41. Can I start working while my permit is being processed?

No. You must wait for the permit approval and a correct visa to begin.

42. What are the age requirements for Austria work permits?

Most permits have no fixed age limit, but applicants must meet job suitability and health requirements.

43. Can I convert a tourist visa to a work visa in Austria?

No. Work permits must be applied for through the proper channels before entering Austria.

44. Does Austria offer visas for unskilled workers?

Yes, primarily through seasonal work permits and employer-sponsored roles.

45. Are biometric tests required during arrival?

Yes, for residence permit issuance and identity verification.

46. Does Austria allow remote work visas?

Austria does not currently have an official digital nomad visa; however, freelancers may be eligible for specific residence categories.

47. What is the highest-paying sector in Austria?

IT, engineering, healthcare, finance and management roles offer high salaries.

48. Does Moving2Europe.eu assist with complete Austria work permit processing?

Yes. We handle job matching, employer sponsorship, documentation, VFS filing, and provide comprehensive immigration guidance.

49. Can I apply for long-term residence after working in Austria?

Yes. A more extended residency can lead to permanent residence and eventually, Austrian citizenship.

50. How can I start my Austria work visa application?

You can begin by contacting Moving2Europe.eu, submitting your CV and requirements, and our immigration experts will guide you through the whole process.

Professional Assistance with M2S Group Sp. z o.o.

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Provides professional assistance in obtaining Austrian Work Visas, Work Permits, and Residence Cards.

Our experts guide you through every step — from employer coordination to embassy submissions — ensuring a legal, transparent, and successful migration process.

For trusted, compliant, and smooth relocation support, contact M2S Group Sp. z o.o. and begin your career journey in Austria today.