Under its Red-White-Red Card system, Austria provides a variety of work visa options to attract highly qualified professionals in professions that are currently experiencing a shortage of skills. One of these is the Job Seeker Visa, which is intended to offer highly qualified international individuals the flexibility to enter Austria in order to conduct an employment search.
Austria’s Job Seeker Visa program has undergone modest modifications to its points calculator, shortage occupation list, financial requirements, and application process in 2024. This article will offer you a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the Austrian Job Seeker Visa, including its purpose, benefits, eligibility criteria, job sectors, costs, application process, and conversion process.
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Purpose of Austria Job Seeker VISA:
Purpose: The primary objective of the Job Seeker Visa is to attract highly trained professionals from non-EU countries to Austria, regardless of whether they have received a job offer. This visa enables individuals to enter Austria and pursue employment for a predetermined duration.
Eligibility Criteria for Austria Job Seeker VISA:
The following criteria must be met by petitioners to qualify for the Job Seeker Visa:
- Points-Based System: A minimum of 70 points is required, which is determined by age, qualifications, work experience, language abilities, and adaptability.
- Financial Resources: Prove that one has an adequate amount of money to sustain oneself during their stay in Austria (currently €948.64 per month).
- Health Insurance: Possess valid health insurance coverage for the duration of the stay.
- Clean Criminal Record: Submit a certificate of good conduct from the country of origin.
Benefits of Austria Job Seeker VISA:
- Job Search Flexibility: The Job Seeker Visa enables individuals to pursue employment in Austria without the necessity of a confirmed job offer. This adaptability allows candidates to investigate a variety of industries and job opportunities that align with their interests and abilities.
- Extended Stay: Job Seeker Visa holders are permitted to remain in Austria for an extended period, typically up to six months, in order to actively pursue employment. This extended period of time allows applicants to network, attend interviews, and secure employment.
- Work Authorization: Upon securing employment, individuals are permitted to work in Austria while on the Job Seeker Visa. This eliminates obstacles to employment and enables visa holders to seamlessly integrate into the workforce.
- Access to the Labor Market: The Job Seeker Visa provides holders with the ability to register for a diverse array of job positions in a variety of industries and sectors in Austria..
- Integration Opportunities: By residing in Austria under the Job Seeker Visa, individuals are able to fully integrate into the culture, society, and language of Austria. This integration experience has the potential to improve their chances of securing employment and better their comprehension of the local job market.
- Support Services: Certain employment Seeker Visa programs provide applicants with support services, including language courses, employment search assistance, and networking events. These resources can assist visa holders in more effectively navigating the job market and increase their likelihood of securing suitable employment.
- Pathway to Residence Permit: The issuance of a residence permit or work visa may be the result of successfully securing employment during the validity of the Job Seeker Visa, enabling individuals to continue living and working in Austria on a more permanent basis.
- Quality of Life: Austria’s vibrant cities, picturesque landscapes, and exceptional healthcare and education systems contribute to its high quality of life. Individuals hold a Job Seeker Visa, which allows them to firsthand experience Austrian life and potentially establish a long-term presence in the country.
- Career Prospects: Austria’s economy is robust and comprises a variety of industries, such as manufacturing, finance, tourism, and technology. These sectors may offer a plethora of career opportunities to job candidates who possess pertinent skills and experience.
- Gateway to Europe: A strategic base for individuals seeking to investigate employment opportunities in Austria and neighboring European countries, Austria is a gateway to Europe due to its central location in Europe. The Job Seeker Visa functions as a gateway to the broader European job market.
Points Required for Austria Job Seeker VISA:
The following criteria must be met to register for the Austrian Job Seeker Visa in 2024: a minimum score of 70 points.
1# Special Qualifications and Skills (Maximum 40 points):
- University degree (minimum of 4 years): 20 points
- Degree in MINT subjects (mathematics, informatics, natural sciences, or technology): 30 points
- PhD or post-doctoral qualification: 40 points
- High salary in a senior management position: 20–30 points
- Research/innovation activities (patents, publications): 20 points
- Awards (recognized prizes): 20 points
2# Work Experience (Maximum 20 points):
- Work experience per year: 2 points
- Six months of work experience in Austria: 10 points
3# Language Skills (maximum 10 points):
- Basic German or English (A1 level): 5 points
- Intensified basic German or English (A2 level): 10 points
- Independent use of French, Spanish, Bosnian, Croatian, or Serbian (B1 level): 5 points
4# Age (maximum 20 points):
- Up to 35 years old: 20 points
- Up to 40 years old: 15 points
- Up to 45 years old: 10 points
5# Studies in Austria (maximum 10 points):
- Half of the diploma program or half of the ECTS points: 5 points
- Completed diploma program or bachelor’s or master’s degree: 10 points
You can calculate your points here: https://www.migration.gv.at/en/service-and-links/points-calculator/.
Job Occupations Allowed Under Austria Job Seeker VISA:
Individuals may submit applications for positions on the skill shortage list (Reference) that correspond to their qualifications and abilities while on a Job Seeker Visa. The position must satisfy the following criteria to qualify for the Red-White-Red Card:
- Shortage Occupations: The position should be classified as a shortage occupation in Austria (ideally). The roster is accessible on the official AMS website.
- Minimum Salary: The position must provide a salary that is equivalent to the designated threshold for the qualification level.
- Relevant Qualifications: The position must be compatible with the applicant’s qualifications and experience.
- Employment Contract: A valid employment contract with an Austrian employer is necessary.
Expenses Associated: The Austrian Job Seeker Visa incurs the following expenses:
- Application Fee: €150
- Additional Fees: Document translations and certifications may incur additional fees.
How Can You Apply for Austria Job Seeker VISA:
The Job Seeker Visa application process consists of the following steps:
- Document Preparation: Compile all necessary documentation, such as evidence of qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, financial resources, and health insurance.
- Application Submission: https://www.migration.gv.at/en/types-of-immigration/permanent-immigration/very-highly-qualified-workers/
- Processing Time: The processing time may extend to three months.
- Approval: The applicant will be granted a Job Seeker Visa (type D) that is applicable for six months upon approval.
Conversion of Job Seeker Visa to Red-White-Red Card Work VISA:
It is mandatory to convert the Job Seeker Visa into a Red-White-Red Card (Reference) to legally work and reside in Austria after securing a job. This conversion procedure involves the following:
- Application Submission: Upon securing employment, submit the application to the appropriate immigration authority (MA 35) at https://www.wien.gv.at/english/administration/immigration/.
- Necessary documents: evidence of qualifications, evidence of financial resources, proof of health insurance coverage, and a valid employment contract are all required.
- Processing time: The Red-White-Red Card’s processing time is subject to change; therefore, it is essential to apply on time.
The Austrian Job Seeker Visa offers a distinctive opportunity for professionals who are highly qualified to investigate career opportunities in Austria. Individuals may utilize this visa to potentially secure employment and transition to a long-term work and residence permit under the Red-White-Red Card system by satisfying the eligibility criteria and completing the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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How can I get a job seeker visa in Austria?
You must personally apply for the Job Seeker Visa (category D visa) at the competent Austrian representation (embassy or consulate) in your home country or country of residence. You can obtain application forms from the Austrian representative authority.
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Can I go to Austria without a job offer?
The “Job Seeker Visa” is a special visa D, which allows very highly qualified persons who do not yet have a job offer to come to Austria for six months and personally look for employment in the country (e.g., to take part in job interviews with Austrian companies).
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Is Austria good for job seekers?
This also aids in securing jobs in Austria for both domestic and foreign job seekers. Furthermore, the country’s strong work-life balance and favorable tax laws make it an attractive destination for professionals who are seeking a better quality of life.
