➢ If you’ve identified a skill gap that you’re unable to fill with local workers, you may proceed with international recruitment

➢ To do so, post a job ad on VideoWorkers and select from the candidates who applied or search the database directly

➢ Go to https://www.migration.gv.at/en/types-of-immigration/permanent-immigration/ and learn about the different types of Red-White-Red Cards (Austria’s most common type of work and residence permit)

➢ Depending on the category of Red-White-Red Card, your prospective employee must reach a specific score according to Austria’s point-based system. Information about the score is provided on the Federal Government‘s Official Information Website on Migration to Austria (see the link above) 

➢ The application for a work permit can be submitted by either:

◦ The employer – to the Immigration and Residence Authority in Austria (preferred option as it ensures a faster processing time)

◦ The candidate – to the competent Austrian Diplomatic Mission 

➢ As part of the application process, the Austrian Public Employment Service (AMS) may conduct a labor market test (“Ersatzkraftverfahren“) to ensure no local candidates are available for the role 

➢ Required documents:

◦ Employer’s declaration (“Arbeitgebererklärung“)

◦ Detailed job description

◦ Details regarding the classification of the skilled worker based on the relevant collective bargaining agreement. These details may be provided in the Employer’s Declaration or through the submission of an employment contract.

◦ Copy of candidate’s passport

◦ Police clearance certificate not older than 3 months

◦ Proof of qualifications (e.g., professional resume, university diplomas, references, language certificates if required, etc.)

➢ Application fee: € 160

➢ Processing time: A few weeks, depending on a case-by-case basis

➢ After entering Austria, the foreigner will need to book an appointment with the Immigration and Residence Authority to provide their fingerprints and submit their original supporting documents. Then, the Immigration and Residence Authority will print the residence permit