Austria admits workers through a points system — the Red-White-Red Card — with published thresholds and no quota. What it doesn't allow: working remotely for your US or Canadian employer on the retiree permit. Here's the 2026 system.
Last verified: 8 July 2026| Category | Points needed | Key 2026 condition |
|---|---|---|
| Very Highly Qualified Workers | 70 / 100 | Can enter on a 6-month job-seeker visa without an offer; points for qualifications, experience, language, age |
| Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations | 55 / 90 | Occupation on the 2026 lists: 64 nationwide + 66 regional; job offer at collective-agreement pay |
| Other Key Workers | 55 / 90 | Gross salary at least €3,465/month (2026); labour-market test applies |
| EU Blue Card | no points | University degree (or equivalent experience) + salary above the key-worker level |
The card ties you to one employer for 24 months; after that, the RWR Card plus gives free labour-market access. Spouses and children come via family reunification with A1 German before arrival, and the RWR-plus for family members includes work rights. Points are scored on the official calculator at migration.gv.at before you spend money on anything.
Score yourself honestly: qualifications, experience, German, English, and age — with the 2026 values.
All 64 nationwide + 66 regional occupations, and what "collective-agreement pay" means in practice.
Board seats, occasional advisory work, and rental income — what counts as gainful employment.
Contracts, permits, registrations — working in Austria has an order of operations. Tell us your situation and we'll answer, or introduce a vetted specialist.