Austria offers skilled foreign workers a chance to live and work in the country through its Red-White-Red Card programme.
According to Austria’s official immigration information, the Red-White-Red Card is usually issued for 24 months.
It allows holders to work for the employer named in their application, subject to the rules of their category.
Who can apply for Austria’s Red-White-Red Card?
Pakistani applicants must meet the conditions for their chosen category. Having work experience or wanting to find a job in Austria does not automatically make someone eligible.
Depending on the category, applicants may need a recognised qualification or proof of vocational training.
Some categories also require a job offer from an Austrian employer and a minimum number of points.
Authorities may consider several factors when assessing an application. These include education, work experience, age and language skills.
Applicants should prepare their educational certificates, professional training records and proof of work experience.
Documents showing German or English language skills may also be needed, depending on the category.
Which jobs are covered by the programme?
People working in IT, engineering, cooking, hotel services, driving and other skilled fields can check whether they qualify.
However, job demand alone does not guarantee approval. Applicants must meet the rules for their specific category.
For most jobs that are not regulated, formal recognition of foreign qualifications may not be required.
However, healthcare, nursing and some other regulated professions may require official approval of the applicant’s qualifications before they can work.
Can applicants get a different work permit later?
Eligible Red-White-Red Card holders may apply for a Red-White-Red Card Plus after meeting the required conditions.
According to Austria’s official immigration website, applicants who have worked under the required conditions for at least 21 months during the previous 24 months may qualify.
The Red-White-Red Card Plus allows them to work for different employers without being tied to one specific employer.
How can Pakistanis check the requirements?
Applicants should check the rules for their profession before paying an agent or making travel plans.
They should confirm the job offer, salary requirements, qualifications, language requirements and points needed for their category.
