Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders
Austria
Last updated: December 19, 2025
2 years (renewable)
$185
3-6 months
High
About this Visa
This visa lets non-European entrepreneurs start a business in Austria. You get a 2-year residence permit and can work as the owner of your own company. This is one of Europe's best startup visas because Austria accepts applicants from every country—there are no banned nationalities. You can live and work in Austria while building your company. After 2 years, you can renew and stay longer. Eventually, you can get permanent residency and Austrian citizenship.
Key Benefits
- Work as your own boss without restrictions
- Bring spouse and children to Austria
- Free movement throughout Europe (Schengen area)
- Access to Austrian government startup support
- Renew and stay longer if business succeeds
- Path to permanent residency after 5 years
- Can apply for Austrian citizenship after 10 years
- Access to Austrian healthcare system
- Kids can attend Austrian schools
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have no criminal record
- Speak German at A2 level OR English at B2 level
- Have school diploma or degree OR relevant work experience
- Have €30,000 available to invest
- Have health insurance
- Prove business idea is genuinely innovative
- Score at least 50 points in evaluation system
Financial Requirement
Minimum €30,000 (approximately $35,000 USD). At least 50% must be your own money.
Documents
- Valid passportRequired for all applicants
- Recent photoNot older than 6 months, 45x35mm
- Health insurance proofMust cover all risks
- School diploma or degree certificateEducational credential
- Work experience lettersFrom previous employers
- Language test certificateGerman A2 OR English B2 minimum
- Detailed business planExplaining your company idea and innovation
- Proof of innovationDocumentation of what makes your idea new
- Bank statementsShowing €30,000 minimum capital
- Company registration documentsArticles of association and ownership proof
- No criminal record certificateMay be requested by authorities
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.