How to get a work visa in Austria as a Kenyan citizen
Complete guide to all available work permit pathways, requirements, costs, and processing times.
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Austria offers Kenyan workers 3 distinct visa pathways to live and work legally. Kenyans are valued for English-medium education, a fast-growing tech sector, and a strong nursing pipeline. Applications are made at the Austria diplomatic mission serving Nairobi.
Phù hợp nhất cho ai
- ✓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
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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
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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.
💡 route.tipFor: Have your Nairobi 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 Kenyans:
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| Item | Amount | In KES |
|---|---|---|
| route.cost.visaFee | €160 | KSh22,435 |
| route.cost.minSalary | €48,510 | KSh6,801,946/yr |
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Apply at the Austria diplomatic mission serving Nairobi. Check the official embassy or visa application centre website for appointment booking, fees and current document requirements.
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Làm việc và sinh sống tại Austria
Các ngành tuyển dụng chính
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.
Chi phí sinh hoạt và chất lượng cuộc sống
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.
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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.
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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.