Austria, with its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities, attracts individuals from around the world seeking to live, work, or study within its borders. Whether you’re a highly skilled worker, a student, or a family member of an Austrian national, understanding the visa and immigration process is essential. Let’s delve into the details:

1. Permanent Immigration: Residence Permits and Visas
Residence Permits for Third-Country Nationals
Third-country nationals (non-EEA citizens or Swiss nationals) planning to stay in Austria for more than six months require a residence permit.
Different types of residence permits exist, depending on the purpose of stay.
For stays up to six months, third-country nationals need a visa. For stays up to 90 days within 180 days, some third-country nationals (based on their citizenship) do not require a visa.
2. Red-White-Red Card: Criteria-Based Immigration
Eligibility for the Red-White-Red Card
The Red-White-Red Card is a flexible immigration model that offers qualified third-country workers and their family members a single permit for working and settling permanently in Austria. Here are the eligible groups:

Very Highly Qualified Workers
Individuals with specialized skills and qualifications.
Points are awarded based on qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors.
The card is issued for 24 months.
Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations
Workers in fields where there demand exceeds supply.
Points are awarded based on qualifications, work experience, and language skills.
Other Key Workers
Individuals with specific skills or employment offers.
Age-independent minimum salary for certain key workers.
Elimination of minimum salary for graduates.
Graduates of Austrian Universities and Colleges of Higher Education
Graduates with degrees from Austrian institutions.
Points are awarded based on qualifications and work experience.
Regular Workers in Tourism, Agriculture, and Forestry
Workers in these sectors.
Points are awarded based on qualifications and work experience.
Self-employed Key Workers
Self-employed individuals with specific qualifications.
Points are awarded based on qualifications and business plans.
Start-up Founders
Entrepreneurs starting innovative businesses.
Points are awarded based on business plans and qualifications.
3. General Requirements for Residence Permits
To obtain a residence permit, you must meet the following general requirements:

Adequate Means of Subsistence
Stable and regular income to cover living costs without relying on welfare.
Income must meet specified reference rates.
Health insurance coverage is necessary.
Locally Customary Accommodation
Proof of legal claim to accommodation (e.g., tenancy agreement).
Accommodation must be customary for a family of comparable size.
4. Application Process and Authorities
Apply for the Red-White-Red Card personally at the competent Austrian representation (embassy or consulate) abroad.
Job Seeker Visa allows you to look for work in Austria.
Health insurance, birth certificate, and proof of accommodation are required.
Remember, the immigration process can vary based on individual circumstances. Always consult official sources and seek legal advice when navigating the visa and residence permit process in Austria.
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