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Austria Immigration & Visa Guide 2026

Study, work, visit and live in Austria with expert support from First Class Immigration.

Overview

Austria offers study, skilled work, family and residence routes under the EU/EEA framework. The Red-White-Red Card (including the Job Seeker route) is a points-based path for skilled workers, while students, researchers and family members use dedicated residence permits.

Applicants typically must demonstrate accommodation, health insurance, sufficient funds and route-specific qualifications. German language ability is often relevant for skilled and integration routes.

Typical Processing
8–12 weeks
Visa Routes Supported
6
🎓 Study 💼 Work ✈️ Visit 👨‍👩‍👧 Family 🏢 Business

Austria Visa Routes

Student Residence Permit

For applicants accepted by Austrian universities or higher education institutions.

Key focus
  • Admission to a recognised Austrian education provider.
  • Sufficient monthly funds (per Austrian thresholds).

Visit Visa / Schengen Short-Stay

For tourism, family visits, business trips and events up to 90 days.

Key focus
  • Clear temporary purpose and travel plan.
  • Sufficient funds.

Job Seeker Route (Red-White-Red Card)

For very highly qualified workers wishing to look for skilled employment in Austria.

Key focus
  • Minimum required points under the very highly qualified category.
  • Sufficient funds for the job-search period.

Skilled Worker Guidance (Red-White-Red Card)

For skilled workers in shortage occupations, key workers and graduate routes.

Key focus
  • Qualification or experience matching the selected category.
  • Job offer meeting salary and condition requirements (except job seeker).

Family Route

For family reunion of spouses, registered partners and minor children.

Key focus
  • Sponsor lawfully resident or an EU/EEA national.
  • Genuine relationship: spouse, registered partner or minor child.

Residence Guidance

Long-term residence, EU Blue Card and other residence categories.

Key focus
  • Qualifying employment, study or family basis.
  • Continuous lawful residence where applicable.
FCI Note First Class Immigration handles end-to-end Austria visa applications with a fixed quote after your free consultation.