Austria
Red-White-Red Card & Alpine quality of life
Austria combines Central European efficiency with Alpine beauty. The Red-White-Red Card system provides a clear path for skilled workers, and Vienna consistently ranks among the world's most livable cities. Citizenship takes 10 years and requires genuine German proficiency.
Our framework evaluates Austria across 6 strategic pillars. Each pillar answers a key question that matters when planning your relocation strategy.
Profile Weight Distribution
How we score: Six strategic pillars with weighted sub-factors. Confidence indicators show data quality (●●● = verified, ●●○ = researched, ●○○ = editorial). Read our full methodology
Profile weighting: Different expat profiles prioritize different pillars. Select your profile above to see personalized rankings.
Something off? These scores improve with feedback. Help us get it right
Immigration Overview
Austria offers a high quality of life, excellent public services, and access to the EU. The immigration system is points-based through the Red-White-Red Card, designed to attract skilled workers, graduates, and key personnel. It's more accessible than Switzerland but still selective.
Vienna dominates expat life with its museums, music, coffee culture, and international organizations. But smaller cities like Salzburg, Graz, and Innsbruck offer alternatives with lower costs and stunning mountain access. German is essential outside Vienna's international bubble.
Visa & Residency Pathways
Red-White-Red Card
Points-based system for qualified workers
- Points for education, experience, language, age
- 70 points minimum required
- Job offer from Austrian employer needed
- 2 years initial, renewable to permanent
Red-White-Red Card Plus
For graduates of Austrian universities
- Austrian degree holders
- Free labor market access
- No employer sponsorship needed
- Easier path to permanent residence
Self-Employment Permit
For entrepreneurs and freelancers
- Business plan demonstrating benefit to Austria
- Sufficient capital and experience
- Creates jobs or brings investment
- Reviewed by economic chamber
Austrian Nationality
After 10 years of legal residence (6 under special conditions)
- 10 years continuous residence (standard)
- 6 years possible with B2 German or integration
- Must renounce previous citizenship
- Full EU citizenship rights
Why Austria?
Vienna Quality of Life
Consistently ranked #1 or #2 most livable city globally. Culture, infrastructure, safety all exceptional.
Alpine Access
World-class skiing, hiking, and outdoor recreation. Mountains within an hour of Vienna.
Excellent Healthcare
Universal healthcare with good private options. Modern facilities, reasonable costs.
Central Location
Hub for Central Europe. Easy access to Munich, Prague, Budapest, Bratislava, Zurich.
Cultural Heritage
Classical music capital. Opera, museums, coffeehouse culture. Deep historical roots.
Safety & Stability
Very safe country with low crime. Stable politics and strong rule of law.
General Requirements
Common requirements for Austrian residence:
- Valid passport
- Job offer or proof of self-employment (for work permits)
- Proof of accommodation in Austria
- Health insurance coverage
- Clean criminal record
- German language skills (A2 minimum, B1 for permanent)
Austrian immigration is structured and predictable. The points system makes it clear what you need. We help you calculate your score and prepare a strong application.
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