Red-White-Red Card / EU Blue Card (employment) (Rot-Weiß-Rot – Karte / Blaue Karte EU)
Red-White-Red Card / EU Blue Card (employment) is a residence route in Austria (Employment). The points-based route covers very highly qualified people, skilled workers in shortage occupations, other key workers (the minimum salary is set each year) and graduates. The EU Blue Card needs a job offer above the annual salary threshold. The permit is tied to the employer for the first 2 years, then you get a Red-White-Red Card plus. The fee is $256 (€218) per person.
Requirements at a glance
Spouse and children can usually be included. Permanent residence: after 5 years. Citizenship can be possible after about 10 years.
How holders are taxed
Worldwide income is taxed at progressive rates of up to 55%. There is no expat regime, apart from a limited 30% relief for researchers and scientists.
Next steps
Check the official page for the current rules and fees, compare this route with the other programmes on the interactive map, and talk to a licensed immigration lawyer or authorised agent before applying.
| Category | Employment |
|---|---|
| Investment | — |
| Fees (family) | $769 |
| Income / yr | — |
| Assets | — |
| Min. stay | — |
| PR | 5 years |
| Citizenship | 10 years |
| Work permission | yes |
| Eligible | Everyone. |
| Tax | Worldwide income is taxed at progressive rates of up to 55%. There is no expat regime, apart from a limited 30% relief for researchers and scientists. |
| As of | 2026-10 |
General information only — not tax, legal, immigration, investment or financial advice, and no client relationship. Figures are simplified, indicative and may be out of date. Always verify with the official authority and a licensed professional in the country concerned before acting. Partner links, if any, are marked and may earn us a fee.