Launch your startup in Austria
Your path to the Austrian startup scene
If you’re a non‑EU entrepreneur, the Red‑White‑Red Card for startup founders helps you set up and scale in Austria. The application is points‑based, scored on qualifications, business idea and market potential, financing or traction, and expected local impact. We optimize your evidence and guide you through the points system and help you navigate all of the application requirements with our smart technology and trusted immigration experts.
What this means for you
The Startup Founder permit gives you the foundation to build your vision in Austria.
Path to residency
Start with a 24-month permit. After two years, you can transition to a Red-White-Red Card Plus, giving you full access to the labor market.
Experience over degrees
While a degree helps, your entrepreneurial track record and professional experience can carry significant weight in the points system.
Founder control
This permit is built for active founders. You maintain a controlling interest (at least 50%) while running your innovative business.
A Faster Start
Avoid common mistakes that lead to long delays or applications being denied the first time. Our trusted immigration experts are with you every step of the way.
Not sure if you qualify?
Talk to one of our experts about your specific situation and the Red-White-Red Card for Startup Founders.
Tell us about your caseHow it works
We guide you through the bureaucratic hurdles of the founder visa.
Figure out where you stand
We assess your business plan and profile against the 50-point requirement to ensure you are eligible before you spend a cent.
Figure out where you stand
We assess your business plan and profile against the 50-point requirement to ensure you are eligible before you spend a cent.
- ✓ Points calculation
- ✓ Eligibility check
Prepare without the guesswork
From proof of capital to incubator letters, we tell you exactly what you need in plain language.
Prepare without the guesswork
From proof of capital to incubator letters, we tell you exactly what you need in plain language.
- ✓ Document checklist
- ✓ Business plan review
Submit with someone in your corner
A human expert reviews your entire application to ensure it is convincing and correct before submission.
Submit with someone in your corner
A human expert reviews your entire application to ensure it is convincing and correct before submission.
- ✓ Expert final check
- ✓ Submission support
Start your life in Austria
With your permit in hand, you are ready to launch your company and join the growing Austrian startup ecosystem.
Start your life in Austria
With your permit in hand, you are ready to launch your company and join the growing Austrian startup ecosystem.
- ✓ Permit collection
- ✓ Founder community
Why mypaperwork
We combine smart technology with human expertise to make your move manageable.
Human expert review
Every founder application is reviewed by a real person who understands the nuances of the startup visa.
Plain language
We translate complex Austrian legal requirements into clear, actionable steps you can actually follow.
Outcome focused
We don't just fill forms; we help you present your entrepreneurial story in a way that authorities understand.
Start your Founder Journey today
One simple package to handle everything for you.
Red-White-Red Card for Founders
Full application assistance from now until approval.
Smart checklist
A personalized list of every document you need.
Expert review
A human specialist checks your files for errors.
Secure storage
Encrypted digital vault for your sensitive data.
Real-time updates
Instant notifications on your application status.
100% money-back guarantee — if your application is not approved, you get a full refund.
Common questions
Everything you need to know about the founder visa.
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It is available to non-EU nationals planning to establish an innovative business. You need a credible business plan, at least 50% ownership, and at least €30,000 in startup capital.
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Not necessarily. While a degree adds points, your professional and entrepreneurial experience can be decisive if documented correctly.
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You need at least 50 out of 85 points. Points are awarded for education, experience, language skills (English or German), and age. Bonuses apply for incubator acceptance or extra funding.
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Key documents include a detailed business plan, proof of capital, ownership evidence, and certificates for your education and language skills. mypaperwork sorts your case and works to create the strongest application possible to launch your move to Austria.
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A rejection isn't always final. Often it's due to strict interpretations. We can help you with clarifications, support letters, or a formal appeal. In the case of complete rejection, mypaperwork offers a 100% money-back guarantee. So there's no risk in applying with our support.
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No. English language skills at B2 level count toward your points score. German is not required to apply, though some local authority communication may be in German — mypaperwork handles this for you.
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Not directly. The startup founder permit covers self-employment only. If you want to take up an employed position, you would need to switch to a different RWR Card category.
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We provide a structured review of your profile, help you prepare a convincing application, and provide human support through every follow-up with the Austrian authorities.
Ready to build in Austria?
Join the founders who have successfully navigated the system with us. Your application is reviewed by a human expert before submission.
Check my eligibility - it's freeFree eligibility check