Key Takeaways:
- Austria’s Red-White-Red Card offers a pathway for self-employed key workers who provide significant economic benefits to the country.
- Eligibility is determined by investment, job creation, innovation, or regional importance of the applicant’s business activity.
- The application process involves submitting a business plan and proof of economic impact, evaluated by Austrian authorities.
- Successful applicants receive a 24-month residence permit, with options for renewal and eventual settlement.
Austria’s Red-White-Red Card for Self-Employed Key Workers offers a pathway for third-country nationals whose self-employment provides significant macroeconomic benefits to the country. Unlike other immigration categories, this route does not operate on a points-based system.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify, your self-employed activity must meet at least one of the following conditions:
- Investment Capital Transfer: A sustained investment of at least €100,000 into the Austrian economy.
- Job Creation or Preservation: Activities that generate new employment opportunities or secure existing jobs within Austria.
- Innovation and Technology: Introduction of new technologies or transfer of specialized know-how.
- Regional Significance: Business ventures that hold substantial importance for a specific region in Austria.
Application Process:
- Submission: You must personally submit your application at the competent Austrian representation (embassy or consulate) in your home country or country of residence. Alternatively, after lawful entry and during your legal stay, you can apply directly to the competent residence authority in Austria.
- Required Documents:
- Valid travel document (e.g., passport).
- Recent photograph (45x35mm, not older than six months).
- Proof of comprehensive health insurance.
- Detailed business plan outlining your professional venture.
- Evidence supporting the economic impact of your activity (e.g., investment proof, job creation plans).
- Qualifications pertinent to your intended self-employment.
- Any necessary business permits or licenses.
Note: Documents not in German or English must be translated accordingly. Authorities may request legalized versions for verification.
- Evaluation: The residence authority forwards your application to the Public Employment Service (AMS), which assesses the macroeconomic benefit of your proposed activity within three weeks, focusing on investment and employment factors.
- Decision: Upon a positive assessment and fulfillment of general requirements (including health insurance), the residence authority issues the Red-White-Red Card. If a visa is required, you must apply for a D visa to enter Austria and collect your residence permit.
Validity and Renewal:
- Initial Permit: The Red-White-Red Card is valid for 24 months, allowing temporary settlement and the pursuit of the specified self-employed activity.
- Subsequent Permit: After two years, you may obtain a settlement permit (Niederlassungsbewilligung) for continued residence, provided all legal requirements are met. This permit is initially issued for 12 months and can be extended to three years after a total settlement period of two years.
Transition to Employment:
If you wish to engage in employed work, you must switch to a different category, such as the Red-White-Red Card for Very Highly Qualified Workers, Other Key Workers, or Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations. This transition requires meeting specific criteria, including achieving the necessary points and securing a binding job offer.
For comprehensive information and application forms, visit Austria’s official migration portal:
