Study in Austria

International non-EU candidates coming to Austria will need to apply for the Residence Permit – Student (Aufenthaltsbewilligung – Studierende). This permit allows you to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week alongside your studies.

Under local labour rules, your employer must obtain approval from the Austrian Employment Service (Arbeitsmarktservice or AMS) for your work hours.

Once you have completed your studies, you can apply to renew your student permit for another 12 months specifically to look for full-time work. If you’re offered a suitable job corresponding to your academic qualifications, you can switch directly to the Red-White-Red Card for Graduates. This graduate track’s settlement process is simple, as it does not involve a points-based assessment.

• Health insurance: Compulsory membership in the Austrian public health insurance fund (ÖGK).
• Proof of funds (2026 rates): You need to show you have enough money to support yourself. The official requirements for 2026 state that students under 24 need around €8,670 per year, and students 24 and older need around €15,700 per year.

Red-White-Red Card (Graduates Track) Key Facts

• Duration: Granted for 24 months initially once you land a qualifying job offer.
• Work rights: Full-time employment rights linked to the hiring employer.
• Eligibility: Completion of a Master's or Bachelor's degree at an Austrian university, along with a job offer that matches your field of study and meets minimum salary rules.
• Pathway: After holding the Red-White-Red Card and working for 21 months out of 24, you become eligible for the Red-White-Red Card Plus, which opens up unlimited access to the Austrian labour market.