Red-White-Red Card Plus (RWR Card Plus)

The Red-White-Red (RWR) Card Plus is a residence permit that grants you the right to live in Austria and provides unlimited access to the labor market. Unlike the standard Red-White-Red Card, which ties your legal status to a specific employer, the "Plus" version allows you to work for any employer, change jobs at will, or be self-employed anywhere in the country.

This pathway is primarily designed as a "transition" permit for existing skilled workers who have completed a period of employment in Austria, or as a "family" permit for the dependents of high-skilled residents. It serves as the bridge between temporary, employer-sponsored work and long-term permanent residency.

The Austrian government is currently shifting toward a "Three-Pillar Skilled-Labour Strategy" aimed at digitizing the immigration system. Throughout 2026, the application process is moving toward a fully digital interface to reduce the need for physical appointments.

Important Validity Rules:

• The first RWR Card Plus is typically issued for 1 year.
• If you have lived in Austria for 2 years and completed Module 1 of the Integration Agreement (German level A2), your renewal can be issued for 3 years. Failure to meet these language requirements will result in shorter, more expensive 1-year renewals.

• Unlimited Labor Access: You have the right to work for any employer in any industry or start your own business (self-employment) without needing a separate work permit.
• Schengen Travel: You may travel visa-free through the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
• Path to Permanent Residency: Time spent on an RWR Card Plus counts toward the 5-year residency requirement for Long-term Residence EU (Daueraufenthalt EU).
• Family Reunification: You have the right to act as a sponsor for your own family members to join you in Austria under the same "Plus" conditions.
• Social Services: You have access to the Austrian social security system, including healthcare, unemployment benefits (if you have contributed), and family allowances.