The Republic of Austria is a landlocked country in Central Europe. Ranking among the best countries to live in, Austria aspires millions of people around the world to immigrate and become a citizen. In Pakistan, Austria is represented by its Embassy in Islamabad (capital) and two consulates; one in Karachi and the other in Lahore.
Qualified individuals can apply for immigration and long-term residence in Austria in several ways as discussed here.
The Red-White-Card
The red-white card is offered to people who are skilled and can contribute to the workforce of the Austrian economy. Carpenters, electricians, hair-dressers, plumbers, foremen, and other such skilled persons can apply for the red-white card to gain permanent settlement with their families.
A red-white card is issued for 12 months and allows the holder to engage in employment in the specified field and with the specified employer. The basic requirements of eligibility are:
- Proof of adequate subsistence
- Payment of fees (single: EUR 872; couple: EUR 1300; additional per child: EUR 135)
- Health insurance
- Accommodation in Austria (adequate as per Austrian standards)
Immigration by investment
Investments are welcomed by the Austrian government. A person who can bring in significant investment (at least EUR 100,00) and has a solid business plan can apply for a self-employed residence permit. The applicant must prove that he/she has envisioned preparing business and residence in Austria and that the required connections have been made or are underway. The more authentic and sincere these efforts are articulated the more the chances of success.
Process
- Case registration
- Preparation of business and residence plan
- Immigration application in prescribed format
- Visa application
Types of visas issued
- Initially 1-year temporary visa residence visa
- Extension for one year at the end of the first year
- Second extension for 3 years
- After 3 years, a permanent residence status is issued provided the applicant has conformed to the rules, laws, and policies of the state
Required documents
- Passport (at least 6 months validity)
- National Identity Card (NIC)
- Recent passport-sized photographs (2)
- Copies of all visas issued previously, including exit and entry pages
- Academic record
- Experience letters, employment letters, etc.
- Certifications
- Company documents
- Bank statements
- Credit/debit card details
- National tax number and returns
- Documents of business and personal assets
Startups/founders
Individuals with brilliant ideas and/or products that are innovative, disruptive, and promise to bring significant change in the prevailing processes in any sector, are welcomed in Austria. In recent years hundreds of IT startups have shifted to Austria due to convenient and encouraging policies.
Though a handful of opportunities are available at any given point; however, there is always the one great idea that can get you your life-long dream! Below are the requirements for a startup visa:
- Plan to establish a company OR prove the wherewithal to operate from home
- Business plan
- The basic capital of at least EUR 50,000
- Scoring at least 50 points on the prescribed point system
Student visa
Students from third countries (outside the EU) who have completed their degree programs and the required training can apply for a renewal of their student visas. The renewal is awarded for 12 months, during which the student may either search for employment or engage in a startup.
Noteworthy here that the students are exempt from the point system required by the general immigration system of Austria. Hence, once a student has found a profitable engagement (employment or entrepreneurship) he/she can apply for the Red-White-Card as explained earlier.
The requirements for students who wish to apply for the Red-White-Card are as under:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate or equivalent
- Recent passport size photograph
- Health insurance coverage (covering all risks)
- Adequate financial means to maintain decent subsistence and residence
- Proof of minimum investment
- In the case where the performance of a certain event is due to the third party, the same shall be proved
- Documents validating successful completion of education and training
