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Austria’s RWR Card for Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations – how to qualify

Austria’s RWR Card for Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations – how to qualify
Written by Allison Trok
Blog RWR Card for Austria
Are you trained in a profession that’s in high demand? Austria wants you and the Red-White-Red Card (RWR Card) could be your path to living and working in the heart of Europe.

If you have completed vocational training in a recognized shortage occupation, the Red-White-Red Card (RWR Card) offers a fast and clear path to living and working in Austria legally.

Here’s how to qualify, what’s required, and how mypaperwork.ai can support you along the way.

Who is the RWR Card for Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations for?

This category is for third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) who:

  • Have completed vocational training in a recognized shortage occupation

  • Have a job offer in Austria that matches their training

Austria updates its shortage occupation list annually. It includes roles such as:

  • Nurses and healthcare professionals

  • IT specialists

  • Skilled trades (e.g. electricians, welders, mechanics)

There is a national and a regional list of shortage occupations. mypaperwork.ai can guide you in that.

Check the current shortage occupation list

How do you qualify?

To qualify, you need to:

  • Reach at least 55 out of 90 points based on your:

    • Vocational training

    • Work experience (experience in Austrian experience counts double)

    • Language skills (German and/or English)

    • Age (you get points for being under 50 years of age)

    • Bonus: if the company that plans to employ you uses English as official language

💡 Use the RWR Card Points Calculator to check if you meet the requirements.

What’s required for the application?

  • A binding job offer from an Austrian employer

  • Salary must match or exceed the amount set by the relevant collective agreement

  • Completed vocational training that aligns with your job

  • Valid documents proving your qualifications and experience

Good to know: No labor market test is required for this category. That means faster processing.

What rights do you get?

  • A 24-month residence and work permit

  • Tied to your employer

  • Minor self-employment allowed (up to €550 a month in 2025)

  • After 21 months of employment: option to upgrade to the RWR Card

The RWR Card allows you to change jobs freely and gives unlimited access to the labor market in Austria.

Your case is unique:

Learn more about how we can help you toward application success!

Free consultation call with mypaperwork! 

Need help applying?

📊 Use the RWRCard Points Calculator to check your eligibility.

🛠️ Get started with the Application Assistant to prepare your RWR Card application step by step – fast, easy, and affordable.

We guide you through every form, document, and deadline.

Ready to apply?

✅ Try the Red-White-Red Card Points Calculator

🚀 Start with the Application Assistant

Want to stay informed? Sign up for our email updates or follow us on Instagram, Youtube and LinkedIn. Together, we’ll make your paperwork manageable.

Take the first step now, mypaperwork.ai will support you along the way!

Your success is our success. If your application isn’t approved, your fee is fully refunded.

mypaperwork.ai is an Austrian startup focused on making migration and bureaucracy understandable, transparent, and easy.

You can also learn more about the RWR Card on the official site: 👉 migration.gv.at – source

Frequently Asked Questions

Our Application Assistant guides you step-by-step through the entire process of obtaining your Red-White-Red Card plus. We help you organize documents, check eligibility, prepare your application, and fill out the final application forms in a straightforward way.

The Assistant breaks down the complex application process into simple steps. You'll upload documents through our secure platform, receive guidance on what's missing, and get access to the support you need regarding translations, document preparation, and filling your application form. 

The basic functions are all free, while you get 1:1 personal support and many features included in the Pro version. 

Yes. We use high-level security protocols to protect all your documents and personal information. Your data is only accessible to you and our authorized team members who help with your application.

Yes, our Application Assistant was developed in coordination with official Austrians authorities. This means we can provide accurate information aligned with current requirements. For individual cases or new situations, we can check directly with authorities for clarification.