Austria Residency by Investment

Austria has no “golden visa.” However, investors, founders, and financially independent individuals can obtain residence through established categories. These are merit- and compliance-based rather than transactional donations.

Main investor‑led options

- Red‑White‑Red (RWR) Card — Self‑Employed Key Worker: For entrepreneurs whose activity brings significant macroeconomic benefit (job creation/retention, substantial capital investment, exports, innovation, regional development). No fixed minimum, but credible risk capital, a robust business plan, premises, and licenses are essential. Leads to RWR Card (typically up to 2 years), renewable, with family reunification possible.

- RWR Card — Start‑up Founder: For founders developing an innovative product/service in Austria. Requires a viable business plan, controlling interest, and minimum equity injection (commonly cited from €50,000 with ≥50% shareholding), plus points for qualifications, experience, and language. Work rights in your company; convertible to RWR Card Plus after meeting conditions.

- Settlement Permit — Financially Independent (Privatier): Quota‑limited annually by province. No employment allowed; requires sufficient secured income/assets above statutory thresholds, comprehensive health insurance, suitable accommodation, clean background, and basic German (A1) at first issuance. Popular for retirees/wealth holders seeking residence without work.

Other professional routes (for completeness): EU Blue Card (high‑salary employees), RWR for Highly Qualified/Shortage Occupations, Intra‑Corporate Transferees, and Student permits.

Eligibility and documents

- Clean criminal record; valid passports; apostilled/translated civil docs.

- Proof of lawful source of funds/wealth; business plan and financials for investor routes; lease/title for accommodation; health insurance (private/EU‑wide coverage).

- Language: not mandatory for RWR investor categories (points awarded if present); A1 German typically required for financially independent permits.

Process and timeline

- Pre‑assessment and appointment booking (apply early for quota routes).

- Consular filing and national approval; entry visa (D) if needed; biometrics in Austria.

- Typical processing: ~2–6 months after a complete file. RWR Cards usually valid up to 24 months, then extendable (RWR Card Plus).

Pathway

- After 5 years of continuous legal residence and integration (incl. German), you may qualify for long‑term resident EU status; citizenship requires longer residence and additional criteria. Tax residency is separate—seek tailored advice.