What are the differences between an EU Blue Card and a Red-White-Red Card?

Factors

EU Blue Card

Red-White-Red Card

Type of permit

Residence & work permit

Residence & work permit

Who can apply?

non-EU academics

 Third-country nationals: Highly Qualified Workers, Other Key Workers, Graduates of Austrian Colleges & Universities, Regular Workers in Tourism, Agriculture, and Forestry, Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations, Start-up Founders, and Self-employed Key Workers

Where can they work?

25 EU countries excluding Denmark & Ireland

Austria

Is there a points system?

No

Yes

Can I extend it to Red-White-Red Card Plus?

Yes

Yes

Eligibility Criteria

Have a university degree ( Master’s or an equivalent)

Have an Austrian university degree or an Austrian college certificate (for graduates)

Have at least 5+ years of professional/work experience

Must score at least 55-70 points via the points system

Have an employment offer from any of the eligible EU state countries

Have a valid job offer

Have earnings equal to the income requirements

Documents required

Application form

Passport

Valid Passport

Proof of work experience

Two copies of color photographs

Proof of educational qualifications

Employment contract

Proof of German Language proficiency (optional)

Proof of work experience of five years

Health insurance

Updated CV

Proof of accommodation in Austria

Medical insurance

Criminal clearance certificate

Proof of income

Criminal clearance certificate

A Declaration from the EU employer

Family Reunification?

Yes

Yes

 Validity

Up to 4 years

Up to 2 years and can be upgraded to RWR Card plus for an additional 3 years

Processing Time

6- 12 weeks

up to 8 weeks

Processing Cost

€ 140

€ 160