Eligibility Quiz
If you are applying as a spouse or registered partner, are you at least 21 years old?
Requirements
Eligibility for the RWR Card Plus depends on your current status or your relationship to a resident in Austria. You generally fall into one of three categories:
1. Current RWR Card Holders (The Switch)
If you currently hold a standard Red-White-Red Card, you can upgrade to the "Plus" card to gain labor market freedom. To qualify, you must have been employed in accordance with the eligibility criteria of your original card for at least 21 months within the preceding 24 months. This employment history must be verified by the Arbeitsmarktservice (AMS - Public Employment Service).
2. Family Members
You qualify for an RWR Card Plus if you are a family member of a person holding an RWR Card, an EU Blue Card, a Settlement Permit for Researchers, or a long-term RWR Card Plus.
- Definition of Family: Only spouses, registered partners, and unmarried minor children (including adopted and step-children) qualify.
- Age Requirement: Spouses and partners must be at least 21 years old at the time of application.
- Language Requirement: You must generally prove German language skills at level A1 (Integration Agreement) before moving to Austria. You are exempt from this if your "sponsor" (the family member already in Austria) holds an EU Blue Card or is a Researcher, or if you hold a university degree.
3. Displaced Persons from Ukraine
As of October 1, 2024, holders of the "Blue Card" ID (displaced status) can transition to the RWR Card Plus. You must have been employed with full social insurance for at least 12 months within the last 24 months, earning at least the "marginal earnings threshold" (Geringfügigkeitsgrenze).
General "Common Core" Criteria
All applicants, regardless of category, must meet these financial and living standards:
- Financial Means: You must prove a stable income. For 2026, the monthly benchmarks are approximately €1,218 for singles, €1,921 for couples, and an additional €188 per child.
- Adequate Accommodation: You must provide a lease or ownership deed for a property that is considered large enough for your family size by Austrian standards.
- Health Insurance: You must have "all-risk" health insurance coverage that is valid in Austria.
Conditions & Warnings
The 21-month employment requirement for switching from a standard RWR Card is strictly enforced; gaps or marginal employment can lead to denial.
Failure to complete German A2 (Module 1 of the Integration Agreement) within two years prevents the issuance of a 3-year renewal.
Spouses and registered partners must be at least 21 years old at the time of application.
Qualifications
A1 German required for family members (Integration Agreement) unless exempt (e.g., university degree or Blue Card sponsor)
Fees
Includes €218 application fee plus approximately €20-€30 for personalization and administrative costs.