Austria•Europe2 months
EUR €218
Varies by filing options
2 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
Job offer required
Work
Remote not required
Work permit for university graduates in highly skilled roles earning above Austria's statutory minimum salary, with EU portability after 12 months.
The EU Blue Card is a specialized residence and work permit for highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries. It requires a recognized tertiary education (or three years of IT experience) and a binding job offer in Austria at a minimum gross annual salary of EUR 55,678. The permit streamlines the immigration process for top-tier talent by fast-tracking work authorization.
The Blue Card is issued for 24 months and is renewable if qualification requirements remain met. A EUR 218 application fee applies, and processing typically takes approximately 8 weeks. Spouses have unrestricted work rights. After 21 of 24 months of qualifying employment, holders may transition to the Red-White-Red Card Plus pathway.
This visa is ideal for university-educated professionals or experienced IT specialists seeking to establish themselves in Austria's labor market with a strong salary and stable employment base.
| Initial grant | 2 years |
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
AustriaAustriaCompleted university or other tertiary education program of at least three years duration
Binding job offer or work contract in Austria for at least six months
Employment must be highly qualified and correspond to the applicant's education
Gross annual salary must meet the statutory threshold (e.g., EUR 55,678 as of 2026)
Public Employment Service (AMS) confirmation that no equally qualified job seeker is available (labour market test)
Exception for IT professionals: at least three years of relevant professional experience within the last seven years can substitute for a degree
Education
bachelor or higher
Min. Income
55,678 EUR/yr
Completed application form
Valid passport
Passport-sized photograph (ICAO compliant, not older than 6 months)
Proof of completed degree or relevant professional experience (for IT)
Employer's Declaration (Arbeitgebererklärung)
Detailed job description
Proof of health insurance covering all risks
Proof of accommodation in Austria
Police clearance certificate (not older than 3 months)
| Varies by member state | — |
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