Thanks to its great economy, good quality of life, and central European position, Austria has been known as a vibrant center for educated professionals. The Austrian Jobseeker Visa is a special chance for those wishing to live and work in Austria but have not yet obtained a job offer. Highly qualified non-EU citizens who want to lawfully visit Austria for a short period in search of work are intended users of this visa.
What is the jobseeker visa
Designed for highly qualified third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens), the Jobseeker Visa is a type D national visa allowing entry and residence in Austria for up to six months in search of employment. Unlike conventional work visas, which need a verified job offer before access, the Jobseeker Visa allows professionals to physically remain in Austria while looking for appropriate employment. Should one be successful in locating a job fit for Austria’s labor market criteria, the visa holder may subsequently seek for a Red-White-Red Card, a combined residence and work permit.
Eligibility requirements
Austria’s points-based system helps them decide who qualifies for the Jobseeker Visa. Applicants must obtain at least 70 out of 100 points depending on numerous criteria to be qualified. Among them are:
- Educational credentials: University degrees in STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—fields notably score well.
- Work experience: Your points will rise from relevant years of professional activity.
- Language proficiency: German and English knowledge increases your score.
- Age: Younger candidates get more points.
- Special accomplishments: This covers patents, research papers, or honors.
This method gives preference to those who possess not just great language abilities but also practical job experience and academic qualifications.
Essential documents
Candidates have to provide a complete set of supporting documentation. Usually they consist of:
- A valid passport
- A completed visa application form
- Current passport-sized images
- Academic transcripts and degree credentials
- Verification of relevant prior work experience
- English or German language certifications
- A comprehensive resume or CV
- Evidence of enough financial capacity (bank statements)
- Verification of Austrian legitimate health insurance
- A clean certificate of criminal record
Depending on the embassy’s policies, any papers not in German or English might have to be formally translated and approved.
Application process
The application has to be submitted in person to the Austrian embassy or consulate from your country of legal residence. To get your score before applying, utilize the official points calculator accessible on Austria’s migration page. Make a visit to the Austrian diplomatic representation after your eligibility is verified. You will show your paperwork at your appointment, and you can be questioned on your goals and credentials. Should the application be approved, you will get a six-month visa that lets you remain in Austria and search for employment. Usually depending on the embassy, the processing period might range in several weeks or more.
After entering Austria
Once in Austria, you are free to seek for employment in your sector of competence. You cannot work on a Jobseeker Visa; it just lets you investigate the employment market and go to interviews. Should you get a job fulfilling the Red-White-Red Card criteria—that is, with minimal pay and skill requirements—you may apply for the permit straight from Austria without leaving the nation. Usually lasting two years, the Red-White-Red Card lets you reside and work in Austria. Should you still satisfy the requirements, it also opens the path to potential long-term residence or possibly citizenship.
Important considerations
One important consideration is the non-renewability of the Jobseeker Visa. Should you not get a job within the six-month term, you have to depart Austria when your visa runs out. Furthermore, since the visa does not allow employment, you have to show that you have enough money to cover yourself without working throughout your visit. Although the visa does not need German language abilities, they greatly improve your employment opportunities, particularly in professions where customer connection or cooperation is vital. Your chances may also be raised by knowing the local culture and an awareness of the Austrian job application procedure.
You may also find these articles helpful
Frequently Asked Questions on Austria
Understanding the impact of criminal records on immigration to Austria
Assessing social benefits and welfare as an immigrant in Austria
