How to get a work visa in Austria as a Filipino citizen
Complete guide to all available work permit pathways, requirements, costs, and processing times.
Why Filipinos choose Austria
Austria offers Filipino workers 3 distinct visa pathways to live and work legally. Filipinos are valued for English fluency, world-class nursing education, and DMW-managed overseas deployment. Applications are made at the Austria diplomatic mission serving Manila.
Who this is best for
- ✓Highly qualified professionals (Red-White-Red Card)
- ✓Skilled workers in shortage occupations
- ✓Graduates of Austrian universities
- ✓Manufacturing and technology specialists
- ✓Tourism and hospitality professionals
Available visa pathways
Red-White-Red Card Key Workers
Rot-Weiß-Rot-Karte Schlüsselkräfte
The Austrian Red-White-Red (RWR) Card for Key Workers is a points-based work permit targeting highly qualified professionals in occupations deemed critical to the Austrian economy. Applicants must score a minimum of 55 points across criteria including qualifications (up to 30 points for a PhD), work experience (up to 20 points), age (maximum points for ages 26-35), language skills (German or English), and salary level. The points system is transparent and published by the Austrian Federal Ministry for Labour and Economy.
Red-White-Red Card Shortage Occupations
Rot-Weiß-Rot-Karte Mangelberufe
The Austrian Red-White-Red Card for Shortage Occupations targets foreign workers in professions listed on Austria's annual shortage occupation list. This list is published each year by the Federal Ministry for Labour and Economy and covers occupations where Austria faces documented labor shortages, such as electricians, plumbers, metal workers, IT specialists, nurses, and various skilled trades. The points threshold is lower at 50 points (compared to 55 for Key Workers), reflecting the urgent labor market need.
Blue Card Austria
Blaue Karte EU
The Austrian Blue Card is the local implementation of the EU Blue Card directive for highly qualified workers. It requires a university degree (or equivalent higher education) and a job offer with an annual gross salary of at least EUR 55,678 for 2026. This threshold is set at a higher level than the RWR Key Workers minimum, positioning the Blue Card as the premium employer-sponsored route for senior professionals and specialists.
💡 Tip for Filipinos applicants: Have your Manila police clearance certificate ready, and check whether your degree and supporting documents need to be apostilled or legalised for use in Austria.
Application timeline for Austria
Employer submits Employer Declaration
Your employer submits an Employer Declaration to the regional AMS (Public Employment Service) office.
1 weekAMS labour market test
AMS conducts a labour market test (unless exempt, e.g., shortage occupation). They verify points and salary requirements.
2-4 weeksApply for Red-White-Red Card
Apply at the Austrian embassy abroad or the local MA 35 office if already in Austria.
1-2 weeksProcessing and approval
The immigration authority processes the application, confirming AMS recommendation, points score, and accommodation.
4-8 weeksRWR Card issued
Your Red-White-Red Card is issued for 24 months. After 21 months, you can upgrade to the RWR Card Plus (open work permit).
1-2 weeksCommon required documents
Documents commonly required for a Austria work visa for Filipinos:
Cost estimate in Philippine Peso (PHP)
Approximate conversions for Filipinos. Currency rates are indicative - check current rates before applying.
| Item | Amount | In PHP |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application fee | €160 | ₱9,739 |
| Minimum salary threshold (per year) | €48,510 | ₱2,952,783/yr |
Embassy and application centres
Apply at the Austria diplomatic mission serving Manila. Check the official embassy or visa application centre website for appointment booking, fees and current document requirements.
Related guides
Working and living in Austria
Key industries hiring
Austria hires international talent in manufacturing and engineering, technology, tourism and hospitality (including the winter-sports sector), and professional and financial services centred on Vienna.
Cost of living and quality of life
Vienna is excellent value for a Western European capital, with one-bedroom rents around €900 a month, and it consistently tops global liveability rankings. Public transport, healthcare and cultural life are outstanding across the country.
Next steps for Filipino applicants
Ready to start your Austria visa application? Here is what to do next:
- Check which visa you qualify for
- Gather your documents
- Apply through the official portal
How to apply for a Austria visa from Filipino
Applications for Austria are processed through VFS Global. Here is how to apply, step by step:
- 1Prepare your documents
Cover letter, bank statements, photos, and supporting evidence.
- 2Book your appointment at VFS Global
Processing time: 15 business days. Service fee: €30.
- 3Attend your appointment with all documents and passport
Biometrics: 10 fingerprints + photo at the centre.
- 4Track your application after submission
Use your reference number on the tracking portal.
- 5Collect your passport when notified
You will receive an SMS or email when your passport is ready. Collect within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
What salary is needed for a Red-White-Red Card Key Workers in Austria?
The minimum salary is €48,510 per year.
How long does it take to get a work visa in Austria?
Processing times range from 4 to 8 weeks.
Can I bring my family on a Austria work visa?
Yes. 3 of 3 visa types allow dependants.
How much does a Austria work visa cost for Filipinos?
Visa application fees start at €160 - approximately ₱9,739. Budget extra for medical checks, document authentication, and travel to the embassy.
Can Filipinos apply for a Austria work visa from Manila?
Yes. Filipinos apply through the Austria diplomatic mission serving Manila. Processing takes 4-8 weeks.
Is there a path to permanent residency in Austria?
Yes. 3 of the 3 visa pathways on this page can lead to permanent residency in Austria.
What documents do Filipinos need for a Austria work visa?
Required documents typically include a valid passport, passport-sized photos, proof of qualifications, employment contract, financial evidence, and health insurance. Requirements vary by visa type.
What are the top industries hiring in Austria?
Austria hires international talent in manufacturing and engineering, technology, tourism and hospitality (including the winter-sports sector), and professional and financial services centred on Vienna.