third country nationals

third country nationals

This page contains information about the residence regulations for citizens of so-called third countries who wish to live and work in Austria. Citizen of a third country means that you are neither citizen of a member state of the European Union nor of the European Economic Area or Switzerland.

What do I need to be able to live and work in Austria?

  • In order to enter and stay in Austria as well as to leave Austria, you basically need a valid passport (passport obligation) if you come from a third country.
  • If you want to pursue gainful employment in Austria, you generally need a visa. For a stay in Austria of 91 days up to six months, a so-called "Visa D" is required.
  • If you want to stay longer than six months in Austria, you need a residence title. To be able to work in Austria, you need a combined work and residence permit (USP), which allows you to work for a specific employer (e.g. the Red-White-Red - Card).
  • The Red-White-Red - Card is a flexible immigration system that allows qualified professionals from third countries and their family members to immigrate to Austria on a permanent basis.
  • You must submit the initial application for a residence title in person at the Austrian representative authority responsible for your place of residence (embassy or consulate general) before entering Austria. You have to wait for the decision abroad.

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