Are you imagining of a high-quality life in the heart of Europe? With its mountainous landscapes, stable economy, and outstanding social security, Austria is more than just a traveler place—it’s a premier hub for global talent.
As we enter 2026, the Red-White-Red (RWR) Card remains the definitive pathway for third-country nationals seeking to settle and work in Austria. However, the rules have changed. From a fully digital application overhaul to updated salary thresholds and an expanded shortage occupation list, navigating the system requires up-to-date expertise. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to secure your future in Austria this year.
Core Visa Types: Choosing Your Path to Residency
The first step in your Austrian journey is identifying the specific “flavor” of the RWR Card that matches your profile.
- Red-White-Red Card (Standard) This is a permit to live and work in Austria for 24 months. It is tied to one employer. You can only work for the company that gave you the job offer.
- Red-White-Red Card Plus This is called the “free permit.” It lets you work for any employer or start your own business. You can get it after working legally for 21 months on the standard RWR Card.
- Job Seeker Visa (Category D) This is for very highly qualified people. It is a 6-month visa to come to Austria and look for a job. You need at least 70 points on the points system to get it.
- Settlement Permit for Researcher This is a special permit for scientists and people who do research. In 2026, it is still one of the quickest ways if you work in research and development.
The 2026 Points System: How Do You Score?
Austria uses a points system. You do not compete with others. You just need to reach a certain number of points.
The Minimum Points You Need
- For skilled workers in shortage jobs: At least 55 points.
- For very highly qualified workers: At least 70 points.
Main Ways to Get Points
Age
Young people get more points.
- Under 30 years old: Up to 20 points.
- Under 35: 15 points.
- Points go down after 40 and 50.
Language Skills
- German: From A1 level (5 points) up to B2 or higher (15 points).
- English: B1 or B2 level can give you up to 10 points.
Special Tip for 2026
If your employer says the main language at work is English, you can get an extra 5 points.
Education and Experience
- A PhD gives 40 points.
- A Master’s degree gives 30 points.
- Work experience: You get 2 points for every 6 months of related job experience.
Many people use an online points calculator to check their score. It is easy and free on official websites.
High-Demand Occupations: The “Shortcut” to Approval
In 2026, there is a new list called Fachkräfteverordnung. It has 64 jobs that Austria needs badly. If your job is on this list, it is much easier to get the card. No long checks if an Austrian can do the job.
Examples of High-Demand Jobs
Tech and Engineering Software developers, DevOps engineers, and new ones like AI safety experts and people who work with hydrogen technology.
- Skilled Trades Jobs like high-voltage electricians, roofers, and bricklayers.
- Healthcare Nurses with special skills, doctors, and social workers are always needed.
- Other Areas Some provinces need people in hospitality, like in Tyrol for hotels. Places like Carinthia need workers for semiconductor factories.
If your job is on the list, your application goes faster. Check the latest list every year because it changes.
2026 Salary Thresholds & Financial Requirements
Austria has rules for minimum pay to make sure wages are fair.
Minimum Salaries in 2026
- Standard RWR Card: About €3,225 gross per month.
- EU Blue Card: About €3,678 gross per month.
- For young graduates (under 30): It depends on the normal pay in that job.
- Yearly: Often calculated with 14 payments (includes holiday and Christmas money).
You also need to show you can pay for living costs, like rent and insurance. In Austria, good jobs pay more than the minimum. But you must meet these numbers to apply.
The Digital Revolution: 8-Week Processing
Big change in 2026: Everything is digital now. A new online platform makes applying easy. Employers upload papers directly. No more slow mail. The government promises to decide on complete applications in 8 weeks. For some jobs like doctors, recognition of your qualifications is now part of the digital system. It saves time. This makes the process faster and simpler for everyone.
Strategy Summary: Your 2026 Checklist
Here is a simple plan to follow:
- Look at the shortage job list. Is your job one of the 64?
- Calculate your points. Make sure you have 55 or 70.
- Learn some language. Even basic German A1 can help a lot.
- Prepare your papers. Get official translations. Make sure they are ready for digital upload.
Follow these all steps, and you have a good chance.
Are you ready to move to Austria? 2026 is a good year for skilled people who prepare well.
Next Step: Do you want help with your points? Tell me your age, your highest education, and years of work experience. I can check if you reach the points.
Disclaimer: This is just information to help you learn. Always check official sites like migration.gv.at for the latest rules before you apply.