Austria’s Job Seeker Visa allows highly qualified graduates and professionals to stay in Austria for up to six months to find employment. In 2025, this visa remains an ideal pathway to explore Austria’s robust job market particularly in IT, engineering, healthcare, and research. Here’s everything you need to know:
Why Choose the Austria Job Seeker Visa?
- Six-Month Stay: Explore opportunities without tying yourself to a single employer.
- Work Authorization: Convert to a Red-White-Red (RWR) Card once you secure a job matching your qualifications.
- Strong Economy: Austria’s GDP per capita and innovation hubs in Vienna, Graz, and Linz create demand for skilled talent.
- Path to Residency: Successful RWR Card holders can later apply for permanent residency.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Austria Job Seeker Visa in 2025, you must satisfy all of the following:
- Academic Qualification
- Master’s degree or higher from a recognized university, or
- Bachelor’s degree plus a minimum five years of professional experience in a shortage occupation.
- Professional Experience
- Relevant to your field, especially in sectors on the Austrian Shortage Occupation List (e.g., software development, mechanical engineering, nursing, scientific research).
- Financial Means
- Proof of at least €2,000 per month of intended stay (approx. €12,000 for six months) via bank statements or scholarship letters.
- Health Insurance
- Valid Austrian or international health insurance covering outpatient, inpatient, and emergency treatment for the entire stay.
- Clean Criminal Record
- Police clearance certificates from all countries where you’ve lived for 6+ months in the past 5 years.
- Proof of Accommodation
- Hotel bookings or a rental agreement covering at least the first month.
Required Documents
Prepare these documents—translated into German or English and, where required, apostilled:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Completed Visa Application Form (E-107) | Available on the Austrian embassy’s website |
| Valid Passport | At least 6 months validity beyond intended stay |
| Two Passport-Style Photos | 35mm × 45mm, white background |
| University Diploma & Transcripts | Apostilled and translated |
| Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) | Europass format recommended |
| Cover Letter & Job Search Plan | Outline target roles, companies, and networking strategy |
| Bank Statements / Proof of Funds | Showing minimum €12,000 balance |
| Health Insurance Certificate | Covering €30,000+ medical costs |
| Police Clearance Certificate | Recent, no older than 3 months |
| Proof of Accommodation | Rental contract or confirmed hotel booking |
| Travel Itinerary | Flight reservation or travel plan |
Also Check: Sweden Working Holiday Visa 2025: Step by Step Application Process
Fees & Processing Times
| Item | Fee (EUR) | Processing Time* |
|---|---|---|
| Job Seeker Visa Application | 120 | 8–12 weeks |
| Health Insurance Premium (six months) | ~ 200 | Immediate coverage |
| Police Certificate & Translations/Apostille | ~ 100 | 2–4 weeks |
*Submit early—seasonal demand can extend processing beyond 12 weeks.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Document Preparation
- Gather all required documents, translate/apostille where necessary.
- Draft a concise cover letter and job search plan tailored to Austrian market.
Step 2: Embassy Appointment
- Locate your nearest Austrian diplomatic mission and book a visa interview via their online portal.
- Pay the €120 fee at appointment or as instructed.
Step 3: Submit Application & Biometrics
- Attend your appointment with originals and copies of all documents.
- Provide fingerprints and a digital photo (biometrics collected on-site).
Step 4: Wait for Decision
- Track your application status via the embassy’s portal or email updates.
- Respond promptly if additional documents or clarifications are requested.
Step 5: Collect Visa & Travel
- Collect your visa sticker once approved.
- Enter Austria within the validity period (usually 3 months from issue).