work permit in Austria

Work Permit in Austria

Many of the foreign specialists prefer Austria because of its stable economy, high standard of living, and good business climate. In order for a foreigner to be able to work legally in the country, he or she needs to get a work permit. In the article below, we will review the main requirements and stages for getting a work permit in Austria.

Criteria Details
Main categories of work permits Red-White-Red Card: Highly qualified professionals, key employees, and graduates of Austrian universities.

Seasonal Work Permit: For seasonal work in agriculture, tourism, etc.

Intra-corporate Transfer Permit: Employees of international companies transferring to an Austrian branch office.

Self-employed Work Permit: For entrepreneurs that want to establish a business in Austria.

Basic requirements for obtaining a work permit Work contract: Official job offer from an Austrian employer confirmed by an employment contract.

Qualification and experience: Proof of qualifications and relevant work experience.

Health Insurance: Valid for the entire stay in Austria.

Proof of financial solvency: Sufficient means to support oneself in Austria.

Certificate of no criminal conviction: Issued by the relevant authorities in the applicant’s country of residence.

Application procedure Application: Submitted through an Austrian migration agency or consulate, with documents translated into German or English.

Application processing: Takes weeks or months, depending on the completeness of the application.

Obtaining a visa: Once approved, a work visa is issued to allow entry into Austria.

Registration in Austria Once in Austria, registration at the local municipality is required to obtain the Residence Permit, confirming the right to live and work in the country.
Work permit renewal The work permit can be extended if the employment relationship with the employer continues. Applications for renewal can be filed a few months before the permit expires.

What is the Austria work visa?

A highly developed economy with a high standard of living continues to attract foreign specialists. The right to work and live legally in the country can be obtained only with a special work visa. In this article, we will consider what a work visa to Austria is, its types, and the main requirements for obtaining it.

Criteria Details
Definition of a work visa An Austria work visa is a permit that allows foreign nationals to work and reside in Austria for a fixed term. It is required only for non-EU/EEA citizens.
Types of work visas to Austria Red-White-Red Card: For highly qualified workers, key employees, and Austrian university graduates.

Seasonal Work Permit: For temporary work, up to six months, in sectors like agriculture and tourism.

Intra-corporate Transfer Permit: For international company employees transferring to an Austrian branch office, valid up to three years.

Self-employed Work Permit: For entrepreneurs planning to establish a business, valid for one year, renewable.

Employment contract Eligibility: Proof of qualifications and experience (diplomas, certificates).

Health insurance: Must cover the stay in Austria.

Financial solvency: Proof of sufficient means to support oneself.

Criminal record certificate: Document confirming no criminal record, issued by the applicant’s country of residence.

Application Process Document Collection: Gather application form, passport, photographs, employment contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance, and criminal record certificate.

Application: Submit through an Austrian migration agency or consulate, with documents translated into German or English and notarized.

Application processing: Processing time varies from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the visa type.

Application approval, visa issuance, and entry: After approval, the applicant receives a work visa to enter Austria and begin employment.

Registration in Austria Upon arrival in Austria, you must register with the local municipality and obtain a Residence Permit, confirming your right to stay and access health and social services.

How to apply for the Austria work visa in 2024?

Having a highly developed economy, a high living standard, and a very attractive way of life, Austria remains appealing to foreign professionals. In this respect, you should obtain a compliance work visa for 2024 in order to work legally within the country. Now, in this article, let’s consider some key steps that would help you to obtain the work visa to Austria in the best possible way.

Step Details
1. Determination of the type of work visa Choose the appropriate visa based on the type of work and duration:

Red-White-Red Card: For highly qualified workers, key workers, and graduates of Austrian universities.

Seasonal Work Permit: For seasonal work in agriculture and tourism.

Intra-corporate Transfer Permit: For employees of international companies transferred to an Austrian branch office.

Self-employed Work Permit: For entrepreneurs wishing to establish a business in Austria.

2. Gather all necessary documents Required documents include:

Completed application form: Available from the Austrian migration agency or consulate.

Valid passport: Should cover the entire intended stay period.

Passport size photos: Usually two photos are required.

Employment contract: Both original and copy, signed by the Austrian employer.

Documents confirming qualifications and experience: Diplomas, certificates, and letters of recommendation.

Health insurance: A policy covering medical expenses for the entire stay in Austria.

Criminal record certificate: Proof of no criminal record issued by your country of residence.

Proof of financial solvency: Bank statements or other proof of sufficient funds to live in Austria.

3. Filing an application The work visa application is processed through an Austrian migration agent or consulate. All documents should be translated into German or English and notarized.
4. Passing the interview If required, you may be summoned for an interview at the consulate. The documents will be reviewed, and questions about the purpose of your trip and working conditions will be asked.
5. Application Processing Processing time can vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the visa type and workload of migration services. They will verify the validity of the documents and ensure the applicant meets all requirements.
6. Obtaining a visa and entering Austria Once approved, a work visa will be issued, allowing entry into Austria. Upon arrival, you must register at the local municipality for a Residence Permit.
7. Registration and residence permit obtaining You must register with the local municipality within three days of arrival in Austria and obtain a residence permit. This document confirms your right to stay long-term and access health and social services.

How Can I Obtain an Austrian Work Visa and Permit?

Austria, with its stable economy and high living standards, has become a continuous source of interest for foreign specialists. To legally be able to work in the country, you have to obtain a work visa and a work permit. In the following paragraphs, we will consider the basic steps that would help you to successfully complete this process.

Step Details
1. Determining the type of visa and permit work Choose the appropriate visa and work permit based on the nature of your work and duration:

Red-White-Red Card: For highly qualified workers, key workers, and Austrian university graduates.

Seasonal Work Permit: For seasonal work, such as agriculture and tourism.

Intra-corporate Transfer Permit: For employees of international companies transferring to Austrian branch offices.

Selbstständiger Aufenthaltstitel (Self-employed Work Permit): For entrepreneurs planning to establish a business in Austria.

2. Prepare all necessary documents Prepare the following documents for applying for an Austrian work visa and residence permit:

Application form: Available on the Austrian migration agency’s website or at the Austrian consulate.

Valid passport: Must cover the intended duration of stay.

Passport size photos: Usually two photos required.

Employment contract: Both the original and a copy, signed by the Austrian employer.

Documents confirming qualifications and experience: Diplomas, certificates, and letters of recommendation.

Health insurance: Coverage for medical expenses for the entire stay in Austria.

Certificate of no criminal record: Issued by authorities in your country of residence.

Proof of financial solvency: Bank statements or other proof that you have sufficient funds to live in Austria.

3. Filing an application Submit your application through an Austrian migration agency or the Austrian consulate/embassy. Ensure all documents are translated into German or English and notarized.
4. Passing the interview After submitting your application, you may be summoned for a personal interview. Documents will be reviewed, and questions regarding the purpose of your visit and working conditions will be asked.
5. Analyzing the application The application may take from a few weeks to several months to process, depending on the visa category and workload of migration authorities.
6. Issuance of visa and entering Austria Once the application is approved, you will receive a work visa allowing entry into Austria. Upon arrival, you must register with the local authority to obtain a residence permit.
7. Registration and issuance of residence permit Within three days of arrival, you must register at the local municipality and obtain a residence permit. This confirms your right to a long-term stay and provides access to health and social services.
8. Work permit extension The work permit can be extended as long as your employment relationship continues. You need to apply a few months before the permit expires and submit updated documents confirming continued employment.

What documents do I need for Austria work visa application?

sheyla2 1Austria, with one of the most developed economies and an exceptionally appealing business climate, attracts lots of foreign specialists. In order to be able to work in the country legally, one needs to get a work visa. The preparation and collection of all papers for the application must be thoroughly prepared. We will look through the key documents that will be required for the successful application to a work visa in Austria.

Filled application form: First, one needs to fill in the application form for a work visa. The application form can be downloaded from the official website of the Austrian migration agency or obtained from the Austrian consulate. The application form shall be fully and accurately completed.

Valid passport: Your passport should be valid for the whole duration of your intended stay in Austria. Your passport should also have at least two free pages for visa and stamps.

Passport size photos: Two recent passport-size colour photographs conforming to international standards for visa documents – 35×45 mm, on a light background, without hats or tinted glasses, should be submitted.

Labour contract: An original and a copy of the contract with the Austrian employer are required. The contract shall include all conditions of employment, such as the job title, remuneration, contract period, and all other conditions.

Documents verifying your qualifications/experience: Copies of diplomas, certificates, letters of recommendation, and other documents proving your professional qualifications and relevant work experience are needed.

Health insurance: Health insurance that covers all medical expenses in Austria for the period of your stay. The insurance coverage has to be good enough to cover all your health needs.

Certificate of absence of criminal record: Document provided by the relevant authorities in your home country, confirming that you have no criminal cases against you. A German or English translation should be prepared, and the paper notarised.

Proof of financial solvency: It is necessary to provide documents proving that you have sufficient funds to live in Austria for the entire period of validity of the visa. This can be bank statements, income documents, or other financial guarantees.

Payment of consular fee: The Consular fee of processing the visa application. The fee may vary, it is recommended to check with the Austrian consulate in advance.

Supplementary documents: Depending on the case, further documents might be invited, such as an invitation letter by an employer, proof of accommodation in Austria, among others.

Application process

Gathering documents: Get all the required documents ready; ensure they are translated into German or English and notarised.

Application: Apply in person at an Austrian consulate or embassy. Applications also can be made via an Austrian migration agency.

Interview: If necessary, attend an interview at a consulate where all the documents are going to be checked, and some questions are going to be asked concerning the purpose of a trip and working conditions.

Waiting for the application processing: Processing can take from several weeks to several months. Within this period, migration services check the validity of the provided data.

Getting the Visa Applied: In case your application is approved, you will be issued a work visa which permits your entry into Austria and enables you to start work.

Where and When to Apply for an Austria Work Visa?

Austria is a country where many foreign professionals relocate for work, having a very stable economy and high living standards. In order for one to be able to work legally in the country, they are required to obtain a work visa that entails several procedures and deadlines for application. The following article looks at where and when you can apply for a work visa to Austria.

Where to apply for a work visa: You can apply to Austria for a work visa through the following official channels:

  • Austrian Migration Agency (Österreichische Staatsbürgerschafts- und Aufenthaltsbehörde): The main body dealing with applications for work visas. The application can be submitted through the regional offices of the migration agency in Austria.
  • Austrian consulates and embassies: You can file the application at the nearest Austrian consulate or embassy if you happen to be outside Austria. Their addresses and contact numbers can be accessed via the website of the Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • Visa Application Centres: In certain countries, Austria cooperates with visa application centres that have been authorized to accept documents and perform an initial processing of visa applications.

When to apply for a work visa: Timing the application with regard to a work visa plays a decisive role in finding authorisation successfully. The following considerations are therefore important:

  • Early application: Application forms are preferably submitted no later than three months before the beginning in Austria. The reason is that application procedures may take anything between some weeks and several months.
  • Seasonal variations: Try to avoid the summer months and New Year holidays, as those are usually peak periods for the consular workload and, therefore, processing times are longer.
  • Current document: Make sure all your documents are current, valid, both at the time of application and throughout the review period.

Application process: The steps to be followed for applying for a work visa are as follows:

  • Gather the documents needed: Prepare all the necessary documents such as a passport, employment contract, proof of qualification, health insurance, and a record of criminal activities.
  • Make an appointment: Most consulates and embassies require an advance appointment for you to be able to submit your documents in advance. This should be made well in advance to avoid any delays.
  • Application: Make an application in person at a consulate, embassy, or visa application centre. Ensure all documents are translated into German or English and notarised.
  • Consular Fee: You pay the consular visa application fee, which may vary based on the type of visa and your country of residence.

Passing the interview

Depending on the result of your application, you may still be required to appear in person for an interview at a consulate or visa application centre. The documents will be checked and questions may be asked about the purpose of the trip and working conditions.

How long is the validity of the Austria work visa?

Due to having a stable economy and very high standard of living, Austria continues to be among the most attractive countries for foreign specialists. A work visa enables a person to officially work and live in a country for some period. We shall look into how long the work visa to Austria is issued in the given article, and what conditions may affect its prolongation.

Types of work visas and their validity period

The main types of work visas in Austria differ not only in some particular characteristics but also in the validity period of each, such as:

Red-White-Red Card: It is issued to highly qualified workers, key workers, and graduates of Austrian universities. The term of validity of this visa is 24 months. Further, you can apply for its extension or for the Red-White-Red Card Plus, which is issued for up to three years.

Seasonal Work Permit: In respect of temporary seasonal labor in agriculture or tourism, the permit is issued for a maximum of six months and cannot be renewed within one calendar year.

Intra-corporate Transfer Permit: This is issued to employees of international firms who get transferred to an Austrian subsidiary. This permit is usually valid for three years maximum in case of managers and specialists and up to one year in case of trainees.

Self-employed Work Permit: Designed for freelancers and entrepreneurs who would like to practice in Austria, this permit has a maximum validity of one year but is renewable upon application.

Documents

Preparation of all the documents necessary, including proof of qualification, health insurance, proof of financial solvency, and preparation of an employment contract.

Application for Extension

It is advisable to apply for an extension a few months prior to the expiry date of the current visa. The application must be submitted to the Austrian migration agency.

Application review

It may take several weeks, or even months, to process an application for an extension. In this process, migration authorities check whether the information presented is correct and if the applicant meets all the specified requirements.

Conditions of visa termination

A work visa can be cancelled or terminated ahead of time due to several reasons:

Termination of the employment contract: The visa can also be cancelled if the employment contract with the employer is completed.

Violation of conditions of the visa: If there is a case of a violation of the conditions of stay and work in the country, the visa can be cancelled.

Raising fraudulent documents: If the applicant has provided false or forged documents when applying, the visa may be cancelled.

Important points for visa extension

On time application: The application for renewal has to be in time so that one does not experience any lapses in legal status.

Update documents: All documents have to be updated according to the standards of the migration authorities of Austria.

Compliance with legislation: You must make sure you comply with the legal conditions as outlined in the legislation if you are staying in Austria.

Can foreigners work in Austria?

Having one of the most stable economies, Austria offers a high level of life, and thus a lot of foreign professionals still feel attracted by this country. Whether foreigners can work in Austria or not—the answer is straightforward: yes, they can. To be able to legally work in this country, it is necessary to comply with a number of legal requirements and procedures. In this article, we consider the main aspects connected with the employment of foreigners in Austria.

Legal framework for the employment of foreigners

Foreign nationals, not citizens of the European Union or the European Economic Area, are supposed to possess a work permit in order to be legally employed in Austria. The basic procedure leading to a work permit consists of:

  • Obtaining a work visa: Depending on the type of work to be done and its duration, a foreigner needs to obtain the respective work visa.
  • Work permit issuance: A work permit can confirm the right to carry on work in Austria and it is needed with the view to carry on work activities in Austria.

Main types of work permits in Austria

Depending on the nature and the duration of the employment, there are several types of work permits in Austria:

  • Red-White-Red Card: For highly qualified workers, key workers, and graduates from Austrian higher educational institutions; it is issued with a validity period of no more than two years and is renewable.
  • Seasonal Work Permit: Given for seasonal labor in the agriculture and tourist industries, it is generally issued for up to six months.
  • Intra-corporate Transfer Permit: Regarding employees of international companies whose branches in Austria apply for their transfer. Validity includes three years maximum.
  • Self-employed Work Permit: For those who would like to start an enterprise in Austria. It is normally issued for a maximum period of one year and renewable upon application.

Documentation

Preparation of all the required documents, including a passport, contract of employment, proof of qualification, health insurance, and police record certificate.

Application

Work visa and work permit application is filed through an Austrian migration agent or directly through the Austrian Consulate/Embassy in your country of residence.

Application Processing

Processing might take several weeks up to a couple of months. Migration authorities check whether information provided is true and that an applicant meets all the criteria of said document.

Obtaining a visa and entering Austria

If your application gets approved, a work visa will be issued, allowing you entry into Austria so that you can take up employment afterwards.

Taxation and social security

Foreign employees need to pay taxes and contributions to the Austrian social security system. In return they will be entitled to health care, pension savings, and other social benefits. The tax system in Austria is rather progressive, and the tax rates depend on the level of income.

Benefits and challenges

Working in Austria offers many benefits, including a high standard of living, access to quality education and healthcare, and opportunities for professional development. However, the process of obtaining a work permit can be complex and require considerable time and effort.

The types of work visas in Austria

Highly developed, Austria enjoys a high living standard and, correspondingly, keeps being attractive for foreign professionals. For working legally in the country, it is necessary to obtain an appropriate work visa. In the article below, we will refer to the main types of work visas available to foreign nationals and describe their key characteristics.

Visa Type Key Features
1. Red-White-Red Card Description: For highly qualified workers, key workers, Austrian graduates, and startup founders.

Validity: Up to two years.

Requirements: High level of qualification confirmed by diplomas and certificates; job offer from an Austrian employer; sufficient salary.

2. Red-White-Red Card Plus Description: For individuals already living in Austria under the Red-White-Red Card who wish to extend their stay.

Validity: Maximum of three years.

Requirements: Continued employment with existing employer; must fulfill all conditions that apply to Red-White-Red Card holders.

3. EU Blue Card Description: For highly qualified professionals whose skills are in demand in the Austrian labor market.

Validity: Up to two years, renewable.

Requirements: Higher education recognized in Austria; employment contract with a high salary; health insurance.

4. Seasonal Work Permit Description: For temporary seasonal work such as in agriculture, tourism, and gastronomy.

Validity: Up to six months.

Requirements: Seasonal work contract; health insurance; proof of financial solvency.

5. Intra-corporate Transfer Permit Description: For employees of foreign companies being transferred to an Austrian branch.

Validity: Up to three years for managers and specialists, up to one year for trainees.

Requirements: Employment contract with foreign company; translation certification; health insurance.

6. Work Permit for Self-Employed Entrepreneurs Description: For entrepreneurs and freelancers planning to operate a business in Austria.

Key features:

  • Term of validity: Up to one year, renewable.
  • Requirements: Business plan; evidence of financial solvency; health insurance.

Application process

The process of obtaining any of the above visas involves several crucial steps:

  • Application Documentation: Collect all the necessary documents, which include your passport, contract of employment, proof of qualification, health insurance, and certificate of criminal record.
  • Application: The application should be made through the Austrian migration agency or directly to the Austrian consulate/embassy in your country.
  • Application Processing: The entire processing of the application may take anything from a few weeks to some months.

Visa issuance

If your application gets approved, a work visa will be issued, allowing you entry into Austria so that you can take up employment afterwards.

Austria Work Permit Requirements

Apart from its highly developed economy and stable legal system, Austria is attracting many foreign specialists. To be able to officially work in this country, one will have to obtain a work permit. In this article, we look at the main requirements and steps for obtaining a work permit in Austria.

Criteria Details
Main Categories of Work Permits Red-White-Red Card: For highly qualified workers, key employees, Austrian university graduates, and start-up founders.

Red-White-Red Card Plus: For individuals who already hold a Red-White-Red Card in Austria and wish to extend their stay.

EU Blue Card: For highly qualified professionals whose skills are in demand on the Austrian labor market.

Seasonal Work Permit: For temporary seasonal work such as agriculture and tourism.

Intra-corporate Transfer Permit: For employees of international companies transferring to an Austrian branch office.

Self-employed Work Permit: For entrepreneurs planning to set up a business in Austria.

Basic Requirements for Obtaining a Work Permit Employment Contract: You must have an official job offer from an Austrian employer, confirmed by an employment contract. The working conditions, position, salary, and duration of the contract should be stated in this contract.

Qualifications: Proof of professional qualification and experience required by the job in question: respective diploma/certificate/proof of passed examination, and where applicable, letters of recommendation, etc.

Health Insurance: Health insurance which also covers Austria and provides complete coverage for the entire length of stay in Austria.

Financial Solvency: Proof of sufficient means for the length of their stay in Austria: bank account statements, income certificates, or any other suitable proof of financing.

Certificate of Criminal Record: A document confirming the absence of a criminal record, issued by competent authorities of the foreigner’s country of residence.

Application Process Document Collection: Preparation of all necessary documents, including a completed application form, passport, photographs, employment contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance, and a certificate of criminal record.

Application: The work permit application should be submitted to the Austrian migration agency or through the Austrian consulate/embassy in your country of residence. It is important that all documents are translated either into German or English and notarized.

Application Processing: The application process takes several weeks or months. Migration authorities verify the accuracy of the information provided and whether the applicant meets all requirements.

Obtaining a Visa and Entering Austria: Once approved, a work visa is issued to the applicant, permitting entry into Austria and employment.

Registration in Austria Once in Austria, you need to report your arrival to the local municipality and apply for a residence permit. This document confirms your right to reside in the country for more than six months and grants access to health and social services.
Renewal of Work Permit The work permit is extendable as long as the employment relationship with the employer exists. To extend, apply a few months in advance, along with updated documents proving continued employment.

Obtaining permission to work in Austria requires thorough preparation and adherence to all requirements and conditions set. Correctly filling out all the documents and submitting applications on time will largely facilitate success in obtaining the permit. It is recommended to consult professional migration agents in order to exclude mistakes in all stages of the process.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Austria, with its stable economy and high standard of living, continues to attract foreign professionals. The question of how easy it is to obtain a work permit in Austria requires detailed consideration. In this article, we will analyse the main aspects of the work permit process and the factors that influence its complexity.

  1. basic requirements and procedures

In order to obtain a work permit in Austria, a number of mandatory requirements must be fulfilled and several steps must be completed:

  • Having a job offer: The first and main step is to obtain an official job offer from an Austrian employer. This offer must be confirmed by a contract of employment that specifies the working conditions, position, salary and duration of the contract.
  • Qualifications and Experience: The applicant must have relevant qualifications and professional experience as evidenced by diplomas, certificates and letters of recommendation.
  • Health insurance and financial solvency: Proof of health insurance and sufficient funds to live in the country must be provided.
  • Criminal record certificate: The applicant requires a criminal record certificate from the country of residence.
  1. Types of work permits

The ease of obtaining a work permit depends on the type of visa:

  • Red-White-Red Card (Red-White-Red Card): For highly qualified professionals, key employees and graduates of Austrian universities. Requires a high level of qualification and a confirmed job offer.
  • EU Blue Card (EU Blue Card): For highly qualified professionals whose skills are in demand on the Austrian labour market. Requires higher education and a labour contract with a high salary.
  • Seasonal Work Permit: For temporary seasonal work such as agriculture and tourism. The process of obtaining this permit is relatively easier, but it is time-limited.
  • Self-employed Work Permit: For entrepreneurs and freelancers planning to operate in Austria. Requires a business plan and proof of financial solvency.
  1. Application process

The process of applying for a work permit can be challenging:

  • Document Collection: All required documents must be collected and correctly completed, including employment contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance and a criminal record certificate. All documents must be translated into German or English and notarised.
  • Applying: The application is submitted through an Austrian migration agency or through the Austrian consulate/embassy in your country.
  • Application processing: The application process can take from several weeks to several months. Migration authorities verify that the information provided is accurate and that the applicant fulfils all requirements.
  1. Benefits for highly qualified specialists

For highly skilled professionals such as engineers, IT specialists and doctors, there are certain simplifications, such as the possibility of obtaining an EU Blue Card. This card offers a number of benefits, including faster processing times and additional opportunities to work in other EU countries.

  1. Difficulties and challenges

The main difficulties foreign professionals may encounter when applying for a work permit in Austria:

  • Bureaucratic procedures: The need to follow all procedures and requirements precisely can be a major challenge.
  • Competition in the labour market: High competition for jobs can make it difficult to find an employer willing to sponsor a visa.
  • Quotas and restrictions: Some industries may have quotas on the number of foreign workers, which may limit employment opportunities.

Conclusion

Obtaining a work permit in Austria can be a complex process that requires careful compliance with all requirements and procedures. However, with the right preparation and professional support, the chances of successfully obtaining a permit are greatly increased. It is important to start the preparation process early and follow all instructions carefully to ensure successful employment in Austria.

Austria, with its stable economy and high standard of living, continues to attract foreign professionals, including Chinese nationals. The process of obtaining a work permit in Austria requires fulfilment of a number of requirements and compliance with established procedures. In this article, we will look at the basic steps that will help a Chinese national successfully obtain a work permit in Austria.

  1. Receiving a job offer

The first step in obtaining a work permit is to receive an official job offer from an Austrian employer. The employment contract must contain information about the position, salary, working conditions and duration of the contract.

  1. Collection of necessary documents

To apply for a work permit, a Chinese national will need to collect the following package of documents:

  • Completed application form: The form can be downloaded from the website of the Austrian migration agency or obtained from the Austrian consulate.
  • Valid passport: The passport must be valid for the entire period of intended stay.
  • Passport size photos: Two photos are usually required.
  • Employment contract: Original and copy of the employment contract signed by the Austrian employer.
  • Documents confirming qualifications and experience: Diplomas, certificates and letters of recommendation.
  • Health insurance: A policy covering all medical expenses for the duration of your stay in Austria.
  • Criminal record certificate: A document certifying that you have no criminal record issued by the competent authorities in China.
  • Proof of financial solvency: Bank statements or other documents proving that you have sufficient funds to live in Austria.
  1. Applying for a visa

The application for a work visa and work permit is submitted through an Austrian migration agency or through the Austrian consulate/embassy in China. It is important to make sure that all documents are translated into German or English and notarised.

  1. Passing the interview

After submitting your application, you may be required to attend a personal interview at the consulate. At the interview, all documents are checked and questions are asked about the purpose of the trip and working conditions.

  1. Consideration of the application

The application process can take from several weeks to several months. During this time, migration services check the reliability of the data provided and the applicant's compliance with all requirements.

  1. Obtaining a visa and entering Austria

Once your application has been approved, you will be issued a work visa, which allows you to enter Austria and start working. It is important to remember that upon arrival in Austria, you must register with the local municipality to obtain a Residence Permit.

  1. Registration and Residence Permit (Residence Permit)

After your arrival in Austria, you must register with the local municipality within three days and obtain a residence permit. This document confirms your right to a long-term stay in the country and is used to access health and social services as well as to open a bank account and other administrative procedures.

  1. Renewal of work permit

The work permit can be extended provided that the employment relationship with the employer continues. For this purpose, it is necessary to apply for an extension a few months before the expiry date of the current permit and provide updated documents confirming the continuation of employment.

Conclusion

Obtaining a work permit in Austria for Chinese nationals requires careful preparation and compliance with all procedures. Correct paperwork and timely submission of the application will significantly increase your chances of successfully obtaining the permit. It is advisable to seek the assistance of professional migration counsellors to ensure that all stages of the process are correct and to avoid possible mistakes.

Austria, with its high standard of living, stable economy and cultural wealth, attracts foreign professionals and entrepreneurs from all over the world, including China. Moving and integrating into a new country requires fulfilling a number of formalities and following established procedures. In this article, we will look at the basic steps that will help a Chinese citizen to successfully move and live in Austria.

  1. Selecting the type of visa

The first step for moving to Austria is to choose the right type of visa depending on the purpose of your stay:

  • Work visa: For those who have received a job offer from an Austrian employer.
  • Student visa: For those who plan to study at Austrian educational institutions.
  • Entrepreneur visa: For those who plan to start a business in Austria.
  • Family reunification visa: For those who want to join family members living in Austria.
  1. Applying for a visa

The visa application is made through the Austrian consulate or embassy in China. Required documents include:

  • Completed application form.
  • A valid passport.
  • Passport size photographs.
  • Documents confirming the purpose of the trip (employment contract, invitation from an educational institution, business plan).
  • Health Insurance.
  • Certificate of absence of a criminal record.
  • Proof of financial solvency.
  1. Obtaining a residence permit

After your arrival in Austria, you must apply for a Residence Permit. This document confirms your right to stay in the country for a longer period of time. You will need:

  • Valid passport.
  • Category D visa.
  • Proof of residence in Austria.
  • Proof of sufficient funds for living expenses.
  1. Searching for accommodation

One important aspect of moving is finding suitable accommodation. Options may include renting or buying a property. There is a well-developed rental market in Austria's major cities. It is recommended to use the services of real estate agencies to find the most suitable options.

  1. Integration and adaptation

Learning the German language and culture is important for successful integration into a new society. There are various courses and programmes to help you learn the language and adapt to the local environment. Participation in social and cultural activities also helps you to adapt quickly.

  1. Opening a bank account

To manage your finances, you need to open a bank account in Austria. This is important for receiving salaries, paying rent and other everyday expenses. To open an account, you will need to provide your passport, residence permit and proof of residence address.

  1. Taxation and social security

Foreign citizens living and working in Austria are obliged to pay taxes and social security contributions. This entitles you to health care, pensions and other social benefits. The tax system in Austria is quite progressive and the tax rates depend on the level of income.

  1. Renewal of residence permit

A residence permit may be extended on condition that the employment, study or other grounds on which it was issued continue. For this purpose, it is necessary to apply for an extension a few months before the expiry of the current permit and to submit updated documents proving the continuation of the grounds for residence.

Conclusion

Moving to Austria for Chinese nationals is a multi-step process that requires careful preparation and compliance with all legal requirements. Proper planning and careful implementation of all procedures will greatly facilitate adaptation and ensure a successful start to your new life in Austria. It is recommended to seek the assistance of professional migration counsellors for detailed advice and support at all stages of the move.

RUE customer support team

Milana
Milana

“Hi, if you are looking to start your project, or you still have some concerns, you can definitely reach out to me for comprehensive assistance. Contact me and let’s start your business venture.”

Sheyla

“Hello, I’m Sheyla, ready to help with your business ventures in Europe and beyond. Whether in international markets or exploring opportunities abroad, I offer guidance and support. Feel free to contact me!”

Sheyla
Diana
Diana

“Hello, my name is Diana and I specialise in assisting clients in many questions. Contact me and I will be able to provide you efficient support in your request.”

Polina

“Hello, my name is Polina. I will be happy to provide you with the necessary information to launch your project in the chosen jurisdiction – contact me for more information!”

Polina

CONTACT US

At the moment, the main services of our company are legal and compliance solutions for FinTech projects. Our offices are located in Vilnius, Prague, and Warsaw. The legal team can assist with legal analysis, project structuring, and legal regulation.

Company in Czech Republic s.r.o.

Registration number: 08620563
Anno: 21.10.2019
Phone: +420 775 524 175
Email:  [email protected]
Address: Na Perštýně 342/1, Staré Město, 110 00 Prague

Company in Lithuania UAB

Registration number: 304377400
Anno: 30.08.2016
Phone: +370 6949 5456
Email: [email protected]
Address: Lvovo g. 25 – 702, 7th floor, Vilnius,
09320, Lithuania

Company in Poland
Sp. z o.o

Registration number: 38421992700000
Anno: 28.08.2019
Email: [email protected]
Address: Twarda 18, 15th floor, Warsaw, 00-824, Poland

Regulated United
Europe OÜ

Registration number: 14153440
Anno: 16.11.2016
Phone: +372 56 966 260
Email:  [email protected]
Address: Laeva 2, Tallinn, 10111, Estonia

Please leave your request