Austria · Startup Visa
Entrepreneur and startup visa programs, investment thresholds, and application criteria.
AI-drafted, editorial review pending. The official links below are checked — confirm specifics with the authority.
Austria has a dedicated route for founders: the Red-White-Red Card for start-up founders. It is for third-country nationals setting up a company to develop and bring to market innovative products, services, processes or technologies. Applicants submit a consistent business plan, must personally exert controlling influence on the company’s management, and must show at least €30,000 of capital for the company, with an equity share of at least 50%. They also need at least 50 of 85 points: up to 30 for qualifications, 10 for work experience and 15 for German, English or other language skills, plus up to 30 bonus points — 10 each for at least €50,000 of additional investment capital, admission to an Austrian business incubator or start-up funding agency, and being 35 or younger. The application goes to an Austrian embassy or consulate, or to the residence authority if already legally in Austria. The Public Employment Service (AMS) assesses the macroeconomic benefit within three weeks. The card is issued for up to 24 months and allows self-employment; after two years it can be followed by a Red-White-Red Card plus, which gives unlimited access to the labour market. Founders who later want a job can switch to one of the employee Red-White-Red Card routes.
- Red-White-Red Card for start-up founders: at least €30,000 capital, 50% equity, and 50 of 85 points.
- Bonus points for €50,000 more capital, an Austrian incubator or start-up funding, and age 35 or under.
- AMS assesses the business within three weeks; the card lasts up to 24 months.
- After two years: Red-White-Red Card plus, with unlimited labour-market access.
- Migration platform of the Austrian Federal Government — Start-up founders
Requirements, the points table, documents and the follow-on permit.
Government portals
- oesterreich.gv.at — Austrian Government Portal — Guidance and online services for residents, including residence registration and ID Austria.
- USP — Business Service Portal — Online company formation (e-start-up), beneficial-owner filings and business dealings with the authorities.
- Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF) — Tax, customs and online filing through FinanzOnline.
- Migration Platform of the Austrian Federal Government — Red-White-Red Card, EU Blue Card and family reunification, with a points calculator.