RWR Card for Key Workers & Self Employed Key Workers

Have a confirmed job offer or self-employment activity that meets Austria's salary thresholds? The Key Workers track of the RWR Card is your path to legal work and residence in Austria.
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What is the Key Workers track?

The Key Workers (Sonstige Schlüsselkräfte) track is for non-EU nationals with a confirmed job offer from an Austrian employer where the salary meets or exceeds the legally defined threshold. Unlike the Very Highly Qualified or Shortage Occupations tracks, Key Workers must score at least 55 points on the criteria catalogue, which covers education, work experience, language, and age.

What is the Self Employed Key Workers track?

The Self Employed Key Workers (Selbständige Schlüsselkräfte) track is for entrepreneurs and freelancers who can demonstrate: • A clear economic benefit to Austria (investment, job creation, or innovation) • Relevant professional qualifications • Sufficient personal capital to sustain the business • A viable business plan reviewed by the Austrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO) This track does not require a minimum points score but does require WKO endorsement of the business concept.

Salary thresholds for employed key workers

The required minimum gross monthly salary for Key Workers depends on your age: • Under 30 years: €2,685/month (2025) • 30 years and over: €3,224/month (2025) Thresholds are updated annually. Your employer must confirm the salary in the employment contract submitted with your application.

What documents do you need?

For employed Key Workers: • Confirmed employment contract with salary details • University diploma or vocational qualification certificate • Criminal record certificate • Health insurance confirmation • Valid passport For Self Employed Key Workers, additionally: • Detailed business plan (in German) • WKO opinion letter endorsing the business concept • Proof of capital or investment commitment • Evidence of relevant professional experience

Frequently asked questions

You need at least 55 points on the Austrian criteria catalogue. This is higher than the Graduates track (50 pts) but lower than the Very Highly Qualified track (70 pts). A job offer meeting the salary threshold is also required.
No. The job offer must be from an employer registered and operating in Austria. International companies can qualify if they have an Austrian subsidiary or branch.
The WKO typically issues its opinion within 4–6 weeks. mypaperwork helps you prepare a compelling business plan to maximise your chances of a positive WKO opinion.
The RWR Card ties you to the employment or self-employment status at the time of application. Changing your work arrangement requires a new application or amendment. The RWR+ Card (after 24 months) removes this restriction.

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Free eligibility check · Employed & self-employed routes