Austria Work Permits & Visas: Employer Guide to Types & Sponsorship

Who Needs a Work Permit in Austria

In Austria, non-EU/EEA nationals generally require a work permit to be legally employed. Employers looking to hire foreign talent from outside the EU must secure appropriate permits to ensure compliance with Austrian labor laws. This includes employees relocating for long-term assignments or temporary work contracts exceeding six months. However, EU/EEA citizens and Swiss nationals do not need a work permit due to the freedom of movement within the European Union.

Certain categories like highly skilled workers, researchers, and intra-company transferees may benefit from streamlined processes or exemptions based on the type of employment and their qualifications.

Types of Work Visas in Austria

Austria offers a variety of work visas depending on the nature and duration of employment. Here are the main types of work visas available:

Red-White-Red Card (Skilled Worker Visa)

The Red-White-Red Card is Austria’s main immigration route for skilled workers from non-EU countries. This visa is designed to attract qualified professionals who have specific skills that are in demand in Austria. To qualify for the Red-White-Red Card, applicants must meet the following criteria: they must have a valid job offer in Austria, their qualifications must match the requirements of the job, and their potential salary must meet certain minimum thresholds. The Red-White-Red Card is granted for a period of up to 24 months, after which it can be extended or converted into permanent residency.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for highly skilled professionals and workers with in-demand qualifications in fields such as technology, engineering, healthcare, and business. It is perfect for those looking to build a long-term career in Austria while enjoying the benefits of living in the EU.

Red-White-Red Card Plus

The Red-White-Red Card Plus is a long-term residence permit for foreign nationals who have held the Red-White-Red Card for a minimum of 21 months. This permit is designed to offer more permanent residency rights and the flexibility to live and work in Austria. The Red-White-Red Card Plus allows holders to work with any employer in Austria, unlike the original Red-White-Red Card, which ties the employee to a specific employer.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for foreign nationals who have already lived and worked in Austria under the Red-White-Red Card and are seeking greater work flexibility and long-term residency options. It’s perfect for those who wish to continue their stay in Austria and eventually seek permanent residence.

EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly qualified non-EU nationals who have secured a job offer in Austria or another EU member state. This card is issued to professionals in fields such as IT, engineering, healthcare, and research, where there is a demand for highly skilled workers. To qualify, applicants must meet minimum salary thresholds, typically at least 1.5 times the average gross salary in Austria.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for highly skilled professionals with qualifications in high-demand sectors who are looking to work in Austria or other EU countries. It is perfect for those who want the flexibility to move within the EU while building a long-term career.

Austrian Work Permit (Salaried Employment)

The Austrian Work Permit for Salaried Employment is issued to non-EU nationals who have a job offer with a specific employer in Austria. This type of permit is often issued for workers in industries that require specific skills or manual labor. Unlike the Red-White-Red Card, this visa is more restrictive in terms of flexibility because it ties the worker to a single employer.

💡 Best work permit option if: This permit is ideal for foreign nationals who have already secured employment with a specific Austrian employer and do not require the flexibility of the Red-White-Red Card. It is best suited for individuals in sectors where specialized skills or manual labor are required.

Entrepreneur Visa

The Entrepreneur Visa is designed for non-EU nationals who wish to establish their own business in Austria. This visa is aimed at individuals who are ready to invest in the Austrian economy by creating new jobs or expanding an existing business. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that their business will have a positive economic impact, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the local community.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for individuals who want to start their own business in Austria. It’s perfect for entrepreneurs who can demonstrate that their business will positively contribute to the local economy and job market.

ICT Card (Intra-Company Transfer)

The ICT Card (Intra-Company Transfer) allows employees of multinational companies to be transferred to the company’s branch or subsidiary in Austria. This visa is typically granted to employees working in managerial, executive, or specialist roles who have been with the company for at least six months. The ICT Card is designed for workers being temporarily relocated to Austria for a specific task or project.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for multinational companies transferring key personnel to their Austrian branch or subsidiary. It is best suited for professionals in senior management or specialized roles who are needed in Austria for a specific project or period.

Not Sure What to Pay in Austria? Compare fair, local salaries with our free benchmarking tool.

Requirements For a Work Permit in Austria

To secure a work permit in Austria, employers and employees must meet specific requirements based on the type of permit. These requirements are crucial to ensuring compliance with Austrian labor regulations.

 
• Valid Employment Contract: The employee must have a valid contract with an Austrian employer that specifies job role, salary, and duration of employment.
• Proof of Qualifications: Employees must submit documents proving their qualifications and experience relevant to the job.
• Salary Requirements: Certain permits like the Red-White-Red Card require the employee’s salary to meet a specific threshold.
• Health Insurance Coverage: Proof of adequate health insurance coverage for the duration of the stay.
• Labor Market Test (if applicable): Employers may need to demonstrate that no suitable Austrian or EU/EEA candidate is available for the position.

Austria Work Permit Application Process

 
• Step 1: Identify the appropriate work permit type based on the employee’s role and qualifications.
• Step 2: Submit the completed application form along with supporting documents such as employment contracts and qualifications to the Austrian Public Employment Service (AMS).
• Step 3: The AMS reviews the application and may conduct a labor market test, depending on the permit type.
• Step 4: Once approved, the employee can apply for a visa at their local Austrian consulate or embassy.
• Step 5: Upon arrival in Austria, employees may need to register with the local authorities and obtain a residence permit.

Process for Visa Sponsorship in Austria

Employers sponsoring a foreign worker for a visa in Austria must demonstrate that they meet the legal requirements for hiring non-EU/EEA employees. This includes proving that the job role cannot be filled by a local candidate, offering a competitive salary, and providing necessary documentation such as contracts, proof of business legitimacy, and evidence of the company’s ability to support the employee’s relocation. Sponsorship also involves ongoing compliance with Austrian labor and immigration laws.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Austria

The fees for work permits and visas in Austria can vary depending on the type of permit.

Note: The above fees reflect government fees for work permits and visas in Australia, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.

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Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Austria

The processing time for a work permit or visa in Austria can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of visa you're applying for, your nationality, and the specific circumstances of your application. Below are general timelines for common work-related permits:

1. Red-White-Red Card (for highly skilled workers): Typically 8 to 12 weeks. This may vary depending on the specific region and complexity of your application.‍
2. EU Blue Card (for highly skilled workers from outside the EU): Around 8 to 12 weeks as well, though this can depend on your specific situation and where you are applying.‍
3. Job Seeker Visa: Usually takes about 6 to 12 weeks for non-EU nationals.‍
4. Other Work Permits (like the General Employment Permit): Typically 8 to 10 weeks for non-EU citizens. This can vary based on factors such as the employer's need for the worker, and whether additional documentation is required.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Austria

Work permits in Austria are typically issued for one year, after which they can be renewed based on continued employment. For instance, the Red-White-Red Card can be renewed for up to two years. Employers need to submit renewal applications before the permit’s expiration date and ensure compliance with all original eligibility criteria.

Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Austria

Austria does not have a specific visa for digital nomads. However, digital nomads can apply for a tourist visa or a residence permit if they plan to stay long-term. Employers should ensure that remote work arrangements comply with Austrian tax and labor regulation.

 
• Proof of Income: Sufficient financial means to support the stay.
• Health Insurance: Valid coverage for the duration of the stay.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

• Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
• Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
• Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.