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:
| Visa Type | Description |
| Red-White-Red Card | A permit for skilled workers, graduates, and key personnel who meet specific criteria. |
| EU Blue Card | Designed for highly qualified non-EU workers with a job offer and a high salary threshold. |
| Job Seeker Visa | A six-month visa for individuals seeking highly qualified employment opportunities in Austria. |
| Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit | For employees transferring to an Austrian branch of their employer. |
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.
The card is issued in categories such as highly qualified workers, skilled workers, and those with special expertise in specific sectors. Applicants must submit their qualifications, work contract, and proof of salary to the Austrian authorities. After holding the Red-White-Red Card for 21 months, employees can apply for permanent residence.
đź’ˇ 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.
Applicants for the Red-White-Red Card Plus must show that they have stable income and have contributed to the Austrian economy during their time in the country. After two years, the Red-White-Red Card Plus holder can apply for permanent residency, offering even more stability and long-term rights in Austria.
💡 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.
The EU Blue Card is initially valid for up to four years, depending on the employment contract. After 18 months of living and working in Austria under the EU Blue Card, the holder can transfer their status to another EU member state. The card also allows the holder’s family members to join them in Austria. After five years, Blue Card holders can apply for long-term EU residency.
đź’ˇ 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.
Job Seeker Visa
The Job Seeker Visa allows foreign nationals to enter Austria and look for employment for up to six months. This visa is ideal for skilled workers who want to explore job opportunities in Austria but do not have a specific job offer at the time of application. To qualify, applicants must meet certain educational and professional criteria, including having a degree or relevant experience in a high-demand occupation.
During their six-month stay, visa holders are allowed to search for work and attend interviews, but they are not permitted to work until they secure a job. Once a job offer is secured, applicants can apply for the Red-White-Red Card or another appropriate work permit. The Job Seeker Visa is a temporary permit, and the holder must demonstrate that they are actively looking for employment.
đź’ˇ Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for skilled professionals who want to explore job opportunities in Austria but have not yet secured employment. It is perfect for those who want to assess the job market in Austria before committing to a long-term work permit.
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.
The process for obtaining a salaried work permit typically involves the employer submitting an application on behalf of the employee, including details of the job position, the employee’s qualifications, and the employment contract. The work permit is usually valid for the length of the employment contract and can be renewed if the employee continues to work for the same employer.
đź’ˇ 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.
Applicants must submit a detailed business plan, including financial projections and a market analysis. The Entrepreneur Visa is usually granted for a period of up to one year and can be extended if the business continues to meet the criteria. After successfully operating a business in Austria for a certain period, entrepreneurs can apply for a long-term residence permit.
💡 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.
The ICT Card is typically valid for up to three years, with the possibility of an extension. The holder of the ICT Card is tied to their employer, meaning they can only work for the company that sponsored their transfer. Once in Austria, the employee can apply for a Red-White-Red Card or another work permit if they want to transition to a different employer.
đź’ˇ 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.
Austrian Freelance Visa
The Austrian Freelance Visa allows foreign nationals to work in Austria as independent contractors or freelancers. This visa is ideal for self-employed individuals, such as artists, consultants, writers, and other professionals who want to provide their services to clients in Austria. Applicants must demonstrate that they have the skills and experience required to operate independently in their field and that there is a demand for their services in Austria.
The Freelance Visa is usually granted for a period of one year and can be extended if the individual continues to work and demonstrate success in their freelance career. Applicants must provide proof of income, a portfolio of work, and any contracts with clients in Austria.
đź’ˇ Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for self-employed individuals who want to live and work in Austria as freelancers or independent contractors. It is perfect for those who have expertise in fields such as consulting, IT, design, or the arts and wish to work without being tied to a specific employer.
Student Visa with Work Permission
The Student Visa with Work Permission allows international students enrolled at Austrian institutions to work part-time during their studies. This visa is designed for students who need to support themselves financially while studying. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during school holidays.
To qualify for the Student Visa, applicants must provide proof of enrollment at a recognized educational institution in Austria. They must also show that they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves while studying. This visa allows students to gain work experience while pursuing their studies, which is especially beneficial for those in fields such as business, healthcare, or technology.
đź’ˇ Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for international students who want to work part-time while studying in Austria. It is perfect for students who want to support themselves financially and gain work experience during their studies.
Common Hiring Scenarios for Austria
When hiring talent in Austria, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Austria. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (approximately 4-8 weeks), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Austria.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Austria
Independent professionals in Austria can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Euro (EUR) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Austria.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Austria
Transferring an existing team member to Austria? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Europe, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
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.
| Visa Type | Application Fee |
| Red-White-Red Card | €120-€150 |
| EU Blue Card | €120-€160 |
| Job Seeker Visa | €100-€150 |
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 typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks. Factors such as the type of visa, the completeness of the application, and whether additional verification is required can impact processing times. Employers should plan ahead to ensure sufficient time for the permit and visa process before the employee's intended start date.
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 regulations.
 - Proof of Income: Sufficient financial means to support the stay.
 - Health Insurance: Valid coverage for the duration of the stay.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Austria
Hiring foreign workers in Austria can come with challenges. Common issues include navigating complex immigration laws and ensuring compliance with labor market regulations.
 - Labor Market Test: Proving no local candidate can fill the role.
 - Processing Delays: Allow ample time for applications.
 - Salary Thresholds: Meeting the required pay levels for certain permits.
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