Austria's RWR card for Very Highly Qualified Workers – what you need to know
Written by Max Mustermann
RWR Card for Austria
Immigration
Skilled Workers
Points System
Want to work in Austria as a highly qualified expert? Whether you're a top researcher, senior manager, or academic with strong credentials, the RWR Card could be your path to living and working in the heart of Europe.
Who is this RWR Card for Very Highly Qualified Workers for?
This RWR Card is for third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) with exceptional qualifications. You may be eligible if you:
- Hold a PhD or post-doctoral degree
- Graduated in mathematics, IT, natural sciences, or technology
- Have senior-level experience and a strong salary history
- Have achieved recognition through research or international awards
Austria created this route to attract top global talent.
How do you qualify?
You'll need at least 70 out of 100 points based on:
- Education & qualifications
- Work experience (Austrian experience counts extra)
- Language skills (German and/or English)
- Age (you get points for being under 45 years of age)
- Austria-specific bonuses (e.g. Austrian degree)
No job yet? Start with a job-seeker visa
You can apply for a 6-month job-seeker visa to search for work in Austria. Once you have a job offer that matches your qualifications, you can apply for the full RWR Card from within the country.
Talk through your case
Your profile is unique. Our immigration experts give you honest, no-pressure guidance on your best path to Austria.
How to apply
Once you receive a relevant job offer:
- You or your employer can apply for the RWR Card
- No labor market test required (unlike other categories)
- The job must align with your background and experience
What you get with this card
- 24-month residence and work permit
- Permission to work for the employer listed in your application
- Minor self-employment allowed
- Upgrade to RWR+ Card after 21 months, giving free access to Austria's labor market