Austria
Points-Based Residence Permit
RWR Card (Key Workers)
EUR 160
Application Fee
60–120 days
Processing Time
24 Months
Maximum Stay
Up to 999x
Extensions
Application checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the salary threshold mandatory?
Yes. If your gross salary falls even €1 below the 2026 indexed threshold, the AMS will reject the 'Key Worker' classification.
Can I use English points instead of German?
Yes. English points (IELTS 5.5+) can provide 10 points, but German (A2/B1) is often weighted more heavily for long-term integration.
How do I calculate my years of experience?
You only count 'Highly Qualified' years of experience relevant to the job you are taking in Austria. General work history may be discounted by the AMS.
What is the RWR Plus transition?
After 21 months of working on the RWR Card, you can apply for the RWR Card Plus, which removes the employer-binding restriction.
Is insurance provided?
Yes, once you start work, you are automatically enrolled in the AHV (Pension) and ÖGK (Health) social security system.
Last verified: 21 April 2026. Not legal advice.
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