Austria · long-stay visa routes and official sources
5 routes tracked · last reviewed · every route links to its official government source
Long-term visa difficulty for Austria: Medium-hard (56/100, lower is easier). Most practical route: Student residence / Red-White-Red Card.
Common questions
What is the most practical long-term visa route to Austria?
Based on our July 2026 review, the most practical route is usually: Student residence / Red-White-Red Card. Overall difficulty is rated "Medium-hard" (56/100, lower is easier).
Can I move to Austria without a local job offer?
Yes — 1 of the 5 tracked routes do not require a local employer: Student residence. Each has its own income, funds, or admission requirements.
A practical way into Austria, but funds and study fit need preparation.
Typical timeline / duration: 2-5 months
Admission to an eligible Austrian public university, university of applied sciences, accredited private university, teacher-training college, or qualifying university course.
Proof of regular funds: €777.58 per month if under 24, or €1,308.39 per month if 24 or older under the 2026 official reference rates.
Health insurance covering Austria, valid passport, admission evidence, and the residence-authority or consular documents required for the application.
For extensions, evidence of study progress; third-country students generally need an employment permit for work, with up to 20 hours per week possible without a labour-market test.
For people with credentials, experience, and an Austrian employer.
Typical timeline / duration: 3-9 months
A binding Austrian job offer in a qualifying shortage occupation and completed training in that shortage occupation.
At least 55 points under the current criteria, based on qualification, relevant work experience, language skills, age, and other listed factors.
Pay at least the legal, regulatory, or collective-agreement minimum for the role, plus passport, insurance, and the employer declaration/application documents.
Where relevant, proof of entitlement to practise a regulated profession and translations or legalisation of foreign documents.
Third-country nationals wishing to settle in Austria without gainful employment, including pensioners and financially independent people, may obtain a 'settlement permit – gainful employment excepted' if they meet statutory requirements.
Requires financial means, accommodation, health insurance and quota/authority processing.
Visa rules change frequently. Figures and requirements above were reviewed on the dates shown; always confirm against the linked official source before applying.