Red-White-Red Card - Self-employed Key Workers for Austria. For entrepreneurs creating significant economic benefit. Criteria: EUR 100k investment OR job creation OR technology transfer OR regional significance. No points system.
Business founders launching a new venture or expanding internationally
Those without a viable business plan or minimum startup capital
RWR Card Other Key Workers: EUR 3,225/mo gross minimum (2026). Super-key staff threshold EUR 8,316/mo for posted-worker exemptions.
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18+ |
| Education Required | Professional qualifications or equivalent |
| Profession Required | Self-employment in qualifying sector |
| Experience Required | 2 years relevant self-employment experience |
| Job Offer Required | No |
| Sponsorship Required | No |
| Language Required | German (A1-B2 depending on category) |
| License / Recognition Required | No |
| Remote Income Allowed | Yes |
| Business Activity Required | Yes |
| Health Insurance Required | Yes |
| Proof of Funds Required | Yes |
| Can Apply From Abroad | Yes |
Financial Requirements
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Income | €15,288/monthly |
| Minimum Savings | €100,000 |
| Application Fee | €160 |
| Est. Total Relocation Cost | €5,000 |
Family & Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Spouse Can Work | Yes |
| Children Allowed | Yes |
| Work Rights | full |
| Remote Work Rights | full |
| Renewable | Yes |
| Time to Permanent Residency | 5 years |
| Time to Citizenship | 10 years |
Related Pathways
Cost of Living
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Red-White-Red Card - Self-employed Key Workers?
Red-White-Red Card - Self-employed Key Workers for Austria. For entrepreneurs creating significant economic benefit. Criteria: EUR 100k investment OR job creation OR technology transfer OR regional significance. No points system.
Who is the Red-White-Red Card - Self-employed Key Workers best for?
This pathway is best suited for: Business founders launching a new venture or expanding internationally.
Who should not apply for the Red-White-Red Card - Self-employed Key Workers?
This pathway is not ideal for: Those without a viable business plan or minimum startup capital.
What are the financial requirements for the Red-White-Red Card - Self-employed Key Workers?
Applicants need minimum income of €15,288/monthly, minimum savings of €100,000. Additional costs may include the application fee and relocation expenses.
How long does it take to process the Red-White-Red Card - Self-employed Key Workers?
Processing typically takes 30 to 60 days. Times may vary based on nationality, completeness of documentation, and current processing volumes.
Can I bring my family on the Red-White-Red Card - Self-employed Key Workers?
Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents. Your spouse may also be eligible to work.
Can the Red-White-Red Card - Self-employed Key Workers lead to permanent residency or citizenship?
Yes. Holders of this visa can work toward permanent residency in approximately 5 years and citizenship in approximately 10 years, subject to meeting residence and other conditions.
What are the known issues with the Red-White-Red Card - Self-employed Key Workers?
Known issues and warnings: RWR Card Other Key Workers: EUR 3,225/mo gross minimum (2026). Super-key staff threshold EUR 8,316/mo for posted-worker exemptions.. We recommend checking the official source for the latest updates.
Can I work remotely on the Red-White-Red Card - Self-employed Key Workers?
Yes, this pathway allows remote income from outside Austria. Remote work rights: full.
Are there alternative pathways to Austria?
Yes. Austria offers 18 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Austria country page.
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Get Your Free VerdictOfficial source: https://www.migration.gv.at/en/types-of-immigration/permanent-immigration/