Blue card Austria

Austria, as one of the most developed and dynamic economies in Europe, actively attracts highly qualified specialists from outside the European Union. One of the key tools for attracting such specialists is the Blue Card programme, which grants foreign workers the right to work and live in the country. This article discusses the main aspects and requirements for obtaining a Blue Card in Austria, as well as the opportunities open to its holders.

What is Blue Card Austria?

Blue Card Austria is a residence permit for highly qualified professionals with a university degree who have received a job offer in Austria. The programme is designed to simplify the immigration process and integrate highly skilled people into the Austrian economy, thus contributing to the growth and development of key industries.

Basic requirements for obtaining a Blue Card

  1. Higher education
    Candidates for a Blue Card in Austria must have an internationally recognised higher education degree. This can be a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree corresponding to the speciality for which the candidate is applying.
  2. Employment contract with an Austrian employer
    One of the key conditions is the existence of a contract with an Austrian employer. The annual gross income stated in the contract must exceed a specified threshold. For 2021, this threshold is €65,579. The threshold may be slightly lowered for specialists in scarce professions.
  3. Matching qualifications and experience
    The position for which the candidate is applying must match the candidate’s qualifications and experience. The employer must confirm that the candidate has the necessary skills and knowledge to fulfil the duties.
  4. Health insurance and sufficient financial means
    The candidate must have health insurance that covers all risks in Austria. It is also necessary to prove sufficient financial means to support oneself and one’s family members if they accompany the candidate.

Benefits of the Blue Card in Austria

  1. Blue Card
    holders have the right to reside and work legally in Austria for the entire validity period of the card, which can be up to two years and can be extended.
  2. Family reunification Blue Card
    holders can bring their spouses and children to Austria. Family members are also entitled to employment without additional restrictions, which facilitates their rapid integration into Austrian society.
  3. After five years of continuous residence and employment in Austria, Blue Card
    holders can apply for permanent residence status. This status grants additional rights and protects against possible changes in legislation.
  4. Free travel within the EU
    The Blue Card Austria allows card holders to travel freely within the Schengen area, making it easier to travel for business and leisure in other European countries.

Application process

The process of obtaining a Blue Card in Austria involves several key steps:

  1. Document Preparation
    The candidate needs to gather all necessary documents including diplomas, employment contract, proof of health insurance and financial means.
  2. The application for a Blue Card is submitted to the Austrian Migration Office (MA 35 or Bezirkshauptmannschaft). The application can be submitted either before entering the country or after arriving in Austria on a national visa.
  3. The Migration Board examines the application and checks that all conditions are fulfilled. This process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the office.
  4. Obtaining a Blue Card
    Once the application has been approved, the candidate receives a Blue Card, which entitles him or her to live and work in Austria.

Blue Card Austria offers highly qualified professionals excellent career and life opportunities in one of the most stable and prosperous countries in Europe. Compliance with all requirements and careful preparation for the application process significantly increases the chances of successfully obtaining the card and opens the door to a wide range of professional and social opportunities in Austria.

Who can apply for a blue card for Austria?

Austria, one of Europe’s leading economies, is actively attracting highly qualified people from outside the European Union in order to strengthen its competitiveness and develop key industries. One of the key tools to achieve this is the Blue Card, a special residence permit designed to attract highly skilled talent. In this article we will look at who can apply for a Blue Card in Austria and what conditions need to be met.

Blue Card target audience in Austria

The Blue Card is intended for highly qualified professionals with higher education and in-demand skills who are willing to offer their services to Austrian companies. The main categories of persons who can apply for a Blue Card include:

  1. Foreign citizens with higher education
    • Candidates must have an internationally recognised higher education degree. The education must fulfil the requirements for the qualifications needed to perform the job for which the candidate is applying in Austria. Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD diplomas are considered suitable for Blue Card applications.
  2. Specialists working in scarce professions
    • Austria actively attracts specialists in the fields of information technology, engineering, medicine, natural sciences and other professions where there is a shortage of qualified personnel. For such professionals, the minimum income requirements can be lowered, making the Blue Card more affordable.
  3. Candidates with a confirmed job offer
    • To apply for a Blue Card, you must have a job offer from an Austrian employer with a guaranteed annual salary that fulfils the minimum requirements. In 2021, the minimum income threshold is 65,579 euros per year, but this threshold may be slightly reduced for scarce occupations.
  4. Relevance of qualifications and experience
    • The job for which the candidate is applying must be commensurate with the candidate’s professional qualifications and experience. The Austrian employer must confirm that the candidate has all the necessary skills to fulfil the job responsibilities.

Additional requirements

  1. Health insurance
    • The candidate must have health insurance covering all major risks in Austria. This is a prerequisite for obtaining a Blue Card.
  2. Adequate financial resources
    • The candidate must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial means to support themselves and their family if they accompany them to Austria. This includes funds for accommodation, food and other basic needs.
  3. Clean criminal record
    • Applicants for a Blue Card must provide a criminal record certificate from their home country. This requirement is necessary to prove that the candidate does not pose a threat to public order and security in Austria.

Application process

The process of applying for a Blue Card in Austria involves several key steps:

  1. Document preparation
    • The candidate must gather all the necessary documents including diplomas, employment contract, criminal record certificate, health insurance and proof of financial solvency.
  2. Submitting an application
    • You can apply for a Blue Card at the Austrian migration office (MA 35 or Bezirkshauptmannschaft) either before entering the country or after arriving on a national visa. It is important to ensure that all documents are properly completed and fulfil the requirements of Austrian law.
  3. Consideration of application
    • The Migration Board examines the application and checks whether the applicant fulfils all the conditions. This process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the office.

The Austrian Blue Card is the key to access to the labour market of one of the most developed countries in Europe for highly qualified professionals from non-EU countries. A successful application for this card requires careful preparation and fulfilment of all requirements. Compliance with these conditions not only increases the chances of obtaining a Blue Card, but also opens the door to a wide range of opportunities for professional development and integration into Austrian society.

Austria blue card requirements

Austria, as one of the most economically developed countries in Europe, actively attracts highly qualified specialists from outside the European Union. One of the key tools for attracting such specialists is the Blue Card programme, which grants foreign workers the right to work and reside in the country. In this article we will look in detail at the requirements that need to be fulfilled in order to successfully obtain a Blue Card in Austria.

Basic requirements for obtaining a Blue Card

1. Higher education

The first and key requirement for applying for a Blue Card in Austria is a university degree. The candidate must have a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree that is internationally recognised. It is important to note that the education must be directly related to the job the applicant is applying for in Austria.

  • Diploma recognition: A diploma obtained outside the EU must be recognised in Austria. For this purpose, you must undergo a nostrification procedure, which confirms that your education meets Austrian standards.

2. Contract of employment

One of the basic conditions for obtaining a Blue Card is to have a job offer from an Austrian employer. This employment contract must fulfil a number of requirements:

  • Minimum income: In order to obtain a Blue Card, the annual salary must exceed a set minimum. In 2021, this threshold is €65,579. However, the minimum income threshold may be lowered for professionals in scarce professions.
  • Eligibility: The job for which the candidate is applying must match his/her qualifications and educational background. This requirement ensures that the foreign professional actually has the necessary skills to do the job.

3. Compliance with professional qualifications

Austria places strict requirements on the qualifications of candidates. The position for which the specialist is applying must be commensurate with his or her professional experience and educational background. The employer must confirm that the candidate has all the necessary knowledge and skills to fulfil the duties described in the employment contract.

4. Health insurance and financial resources

In order to successfully obtain a Blue Card, it is necessary to have health insurance that covers all major risks in Austria. This is a prerequisite, as it ensures access to quality medical care in the country.

In addition, the candidate must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial means to support themselves and their family members if they accompany them to Austria. This includes the costs of accommodation, food and other necessary necessities.

5. Certificate of no criminal record

The applicant for a Blue Card must provide a criminal record certificate from his or her home country. This requirement is aimed at ensuring security in Austria and confirms that the applicant does not pose a threat to public order.

Additional requirements and conditions

1. Knowledge of the German language

Although knowledge of German is not a requirement for obtaining a Blue Card, it significantly increases the chances of successful integration into Austrian society and improves career prospects. Many employers prefer candidates who speak German, as it facilitates communication and adaptation in the working environment.

2. Living and working conditions in Austria

The Blue Card in Austria is granted for a period of up to two years with the possibility of extension. It is important to note that work and residence in the country must comply with the conditions laid down in the labour contract and Austrian migration law. Violation of these conditions may lead to the cancellation of the Blue Card.

3. Family reunification

Blue Card holders are entitled to family reunification. This means that spouses and minor children can join the cardholder in Austria. Family members are also entitled to employment, which makes the process of integration into society much easier.

Blue Card Austria is a powerful tool for highly qualified professionals looking to build a successful career in one of Europe’s leading economies. Fulfilling all the requirements for the card requires careful preparation and attention to detail, but in return offers extensive opportunities for professional and personal growth. Compliance with all conditions and careful attention to the application process significantly increases the chances of successfully obtaining a Blue Card and opens the door to new opportunities in Austria.

How do I get the blue card in Austria?

Austria, as one of the most stable and developed economies in Europe, actively attracts highly qualified professionals from countries outside the European Union. The Blue Card is one of the tools that allows foreign professionals to legalise their stay and employment in Austria. In this article we will look in detail at the process of obtaining a Blue Card, including the main steps, requirements and tips for successful completion of the procedure.

Main steps in obtaining a Blue Card in Austria

Step 1: Assess compliance with requirements

Before you begin the application process, it is important to make sure that you meet all the criteria for a Blue Card in Austria. The basic requirements include:

  1. Higher education: You must have a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree that is internationally recognised and relevant to the field of study for which you are applying in Austria.
  2. Employment contract: You must have a job offer from an Austrian employer with a guaranteed annual salary above a minimum threshold. In 2021, this threshold is €65,579 per year, but it can be lowered for scarce occupations.
  3. Matching professional qualifications: The job you apply for must match your qualifications and experience.

Step 2: Recognition of the diploma

If your diploma was obtained outside the European Union, you will need to undergo the nostrification procedure – the recognition of your diploma in Austria. This is an important step, as it is not possible to apply for a Blue Card without having your diploma recognised.

Step 3: Preparing the necessary documents

To apply for a Blue Card, you will need to collect and prepare the following documents:

  • A higher education diploma recognised in Austria.
  • Confirmation of the employment contract with the Austrian employer.
  • A certificate of no criminal record from your country.
  • Proof of health insurance valid in Austria.
  • Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself and, if applicable, your family members.
  • Completed residence permit application form.

Step 4: Applying for a Blue Card

You can apply for a Blue Card in two ways:

  1. Before entering Austria: If you are outside Austria, you can apply at the Austrian consulate or embassy in your country. Once you have received your D visa (long-term visa), you will be able to enter Austria to complete the Blue Card process.
  2. After arrival in Austria: If you are already in Austria on the basis of a D visa or other legal status, you can apply directly to the local migration office (MA 35 or Bezirkshauptmannschaft).

Step 5: Consideration of the application

After submitting the application, the migration office checks the documents and makes a decision. The processing time can vary from several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of your case and the workload of the office. It is important to keep track of the status of your application and provide any additional documents requested in a timely manner.

Step 6: Obtaining a Blue Card

Once your application has been approved, you will be issued a Blue Card, which allows you to live and work legally in Austria. The card is usually issued for up to two years, with the possibility of renewal. It also entitles you to family reunification and access to a range of social services, including health care and education.

Step 7: Renew your Blue Card

The Blue Card can be renewed after its original expiry date. In order to do so, you must continue to fulfil all conditions, including having a valid employment contract and health insurance. The renewal process is similar to the initial application and it is important to start preparing for renewal several months before the card expires.

Obtaining a Blue Card in Austria is an important step for highly qualified professionals looking to build a successful career in Europe. The application process requires careful preparation and strict adherence to all requirements, but the result is access to many opportunities in one of Europe’s most attractive countries. Successfully obtaining a Blue Card not only opens the door to a new career, but also provides your family with a stable basis for living and growing in Austria.

How much do I have to earn to qualify for a blue card in Austria?

The Blue Card programme in Austria, as in other EU countries, is designed to attract highly qualified specialists from non-EU countries. One of the key conditions for obtaining a Blue Card is meeting the income requirements. In this article we will look at the minimum income required to qualify for a Blue Card in Austria, as well as important aspects related to this requirement.

Minimum income level for Blue Card

1. general income threshold

One of the basic conditions for obtaining a Blue Card in Austria is to have a job offer from an Austrian employer with an annual salary that meets the minimum salary threshold. In 2021, this threshold is €65,579 per year before tax (gross). This requirement is aimed at ensuring that the candidate is able to support himself or herself in Austria without relying on social support from the state.

2. Exemptions for scarce occupations

For professionals working in so-called shortage occupations, the minimum income level may be lowered. This applies to professions where there is a significant labour shortage, such as engineering, information technology, medicine and natural sciences. For these professional categories, the minimum income threshold can be lowered to €52,416 per year. This reduced requirement makes the Blue Card more accessible to those working in in-demand fields.

Why is the minimum income threshold important?

1. Guarantee of economic self-sufficiency

The minimum income threshold is set in order to ensure that Blue Card holders can support themselves and their families without having to resort to state aid. This threshold also takes into account the high standard of living in Austria and the costs associated with living in the country, including housing, health care and education.

2. Compliance with labour market requirements

The Austrian government sets minimum income requirements to make sure that foreign specialists occupy highly skilled and in-demand positions that cannot be filled by local staff. This also helps to attract talent that can make a significant contribution to the economy and society.

3. Social guarantees

The high level of income enables Blue Card holders to have access to a wide range of social services, including health care and education. This creates the conditions for a stable and secure residence in Austria.

How is income calculated?

1. Gross income

The minimum income threshold for a Blue Card in Austria is calculated on the basis of annual gross income, i.e. income before taxes and other compulsory payments are deducted. All regular income such as basic salary, bonuses, bonuses and other payments that are specified in the employment contract can be included in the calculation.

2. Importance of meeting the income threshold

When applying for a Blue Card, you must provide a copy of your employment contract showing your eligible annual salary. Failure to meet this threshold may result in the denial of the Blue Card application, even if the applicant fulfils all other requirements.

Meeting the minimum income level is one of the key conditions for obtaining a Blue Card in Austria. This threshold, set at €65,579 per year, ensures that card holders can successfully integrate themselves and their families into the economic and social life of the country. For professionals working in scarce professions, the reduced income threshold provides additional opportunities for the Blue Card. Careful compliance with all requirements and preparation of the necessary documents significantly increases the chances of successfully obtaining a Blue Card and opens the door to professional and personal opportunities in Austria.

What opportunities does the blue card offer in Austria?

The Blue Card in Austria is more than just a work and residence permit, it is the key to many opportunities that can dramatically change the careers and lives of highly qualified professionals from outside the European Union. In this article, we take a closer look at what prospects are open to Blue Card holders in Austria and how they can take advantage of these opportunities to achieve their professional and personal goals.

Professional Opportunities

1. Access to highly paid and prestigious positions

Austria offers a wide range of job opportunities for Blue Card holders, especially in areas where there is a skills shortage. This includes sectors such as information technology, engineering, medicine, finance and science. Blue Card holders have the opportunity to take up senior positions with competitive salaries, which opens the door to career advancement and the development of professional skills.

2. Fast track to permanent residence

One of the significant advantages of the Blue Card is the possibility of obtaining a permanent residence permit in Austria. Blue Card holders can apply for permanent residence after only 21 months of employment in the country, provided they fulfil a number of requirements, such as B1 German language skills. This significantly speeds up the process of integration into Austrian society and makes it possible to plan a long-term career and life in the country.

3. Opportunities for professional development and training

Austria is renowned for its high level of education and vocational training opportunities. Blue Card holders can take advantage of a wide range of educational programmes and professional development courses. This allows not only to develop current skills, but also to learn new areas, which contributes to further career development and increased competitiveness on the labour market.

Social and family opportunities

1. Family reunification

One of the key opportunities offered by the Blue Card is the right to family reunification. Blue Card holders can bring their spouses and children to Austria. Spouses are entitled to employment without additional authorisation, which makes it much easier for the whole family to adapt and integrate into Austrian society.

2. Access to high quality health care and social services

Austria offers one of the best healthcare systems in the world. Blue Card holders and their families have full access to health care and social services, which guarantees a high level of security and comfort. This includes access to health insurance, pension programmes and other social protection.

3. Education for children

Children of Blue Card holders can access quality education in Austria. This applies to both public and public schools as well as higher education institutions. The high level of education offers children prospects for future professional development and successful integration into the European community.

International opportunities

1. Freedom of movement within the Schengen area

Blue Card holders in Austria can travel freely to all Schengen countries without the need for additional visas. This offers great opportunities for business trips, holidays and exploring the culture and traditions of other European countries.

2. Possibility to work in other EU countries

The Blue Card also opens up the possibility of working in other EU countries. After 18 months of employment in Austria, Blue Card holders can move to another EU country to work or continue their career, which significantly expands the geography of professional opportunities.

The Blue Card in Austria offers highly qualified professionals not only access to prestigious and well-paid jobs, but also provides a wide range of social and family opportunities. This programme opens the door to long-term residence, professional development and international mobility, making Austria one of the most attractive career and living destinations in Europe. Blue Card holders can not only realise their professional ambitions, but also provide their family with a high standard of living and a stable future in the heart of Europe.

Austria blue card application process

Austria actively attracts highly qualified professionals from outside the European Union by offering them the opportunity to obtain a Blue Card. This card grants the right to work and live in the country, opening up access to a wide range of professional and social opportunities. However, the process of applying for a Blue Card requires careful preparation and following certain procedures. In this article, we will look at the step-by-step process of applying for a Blue Card in Austria, as well as the key points to consider in order to successfully obtain a Blue Card.

Main steps in applying for a Blue Card in Austria

Step 1: Assess compliance with requirements

Before you begin the application process, it’s important to make sure you meet all of the necessary criteria for a Blue Card. Basic requirements include:

  • Higher education: You must possess a higher education degree recognised in Austria. The education must be relevant to the qualifications required for the job for which you are applying.
  • Employment contract: Having a job offer from an Austrian employer with a guaranteed annual salary above a minimum threshold. In 2021, this threshold is 65,579 euros.

Step 2: Recognition of the diploma

If your diploma was obtained outside the European Union, you need to undergo a diploma recognition (nostrification) procedure in Austria. This is a mandatory step that confirms that your education meets Austrian standards and requirements for your chosen profession.

Step 3: Preparing the necessary documents

To apply for a Blue Card, you will need to collect and prepare the following package of documents:

  • A higher education diploma recognised in Austria.
  • Employment contract with an Austrian employer, confirming the level of income and working conditions.
  • A certificate of no criminal record from your country of residence.
  • Proof of health insurance that covers all major risks in Austria.
  • Documents proving that you and your family have sufficient financial means to live (if applicable).
  • Biometric photos.
  • Completed application form for a residence permit (Blue Card).

Step 4: Submitting an application

There are two main ways to apply for a Blue Card in Austria:

  1. Before entering Austria: If you are outside Austria, you can apply at the Austrian consulate or embassy in your country. This process also includes obtaining a national D visa, which allows you to enter Austria to continue your Blue Card application.
  2. After arrival in Austria: If you are already in Austria legally, you can apply for a Blue Card directly at the local migration office (MA 35 or Bezirkshauptmannschaft).

Step 5: Consideration of the application

Once the application has been submitted, the migration office will proceed with the verification of all the documents submitted. The processing time may vary depending on the complexity of your case and the workload of the office, but usually ranges from several weeks to several months. Additional documents or clarifications may be required at this stage, so it is important to respond promptly to requests from the office.

Step 6: Obtaining a Blue Card

Once your application is approved, you will be issued a Blue Card. The Blue Card is usually issued for a period of up to two years and can be renewed. The Blue Card entitles you to reside and work legally in Austria, as well as access to a number of social services and programmes.

Step 7: Renew your Blue Card

When your Blue Card expires, you can renew it. To do so, you must continue to meet all requirements, including having a valid employment contract, health insurance and sufficient funds. The renewal process is similar to the initial application, so it is recommended that you begin preparing several months before your card expires.

The process of applying for a Blue Card in Austria requires thorough preparation and careful adherence to all steps. Successful completion of this procedure opens up great opportunities for professional growth and life in Austria. With the Blue Card, you can not only build a career in one of the most stable and developed economies in Europe, but also provide your family with a high standard of living and long-term stability.

Where can I get Austria blue card?

The Blue Card in Austria is an important tool for highly qualified professionals from non-European Union countries to legally work and reside in Austria. However, the process of obtaining a Blue Card requires careful adherence to procedures and contacting the relevant government authorities. In this article we will look at where and how you can obtain a Blue Card in Austria, as well as the steps you need to take to successfully apply for a Blue Card.

Main places to obtain a Blue Card in Austria

1. Filing an application outside Austria

If you are outside Austria and wish to obtain a Blue Card, the first step is to apply for a D visa at the Austrian consulate or embassy in your country. This is a long-term stay visa that allows you to enter Austria to apply for a Blue Card.

Main Actions:

  • Apply for a D visa at an Austrian consulate or embassy.
  • Provide the necessary documents, including your high school diploma, proof of employment, health insurance and other documents required for a Blue Card.
  • Obtain a D visa, which will allow you to enter Austria to continue your Blue Card application.

2. Filing an application in Austria

If you are already in Austria legally (e.g. on a D visa or other residence permit), you can apply for a Blue Card directly at the local migration office. This may be the MA 35 (Magistratsabteilung) in Vienna or the Bezirkshauptmannschaft (district administrative office) in other Austrian federal states.

Key Steps:

  • Register your place of residence at the local Bürgeramt (citizens’ registration office). This is a mandatory step that must be completed within three days of arrival in Austria.
  • Apply for a Blue Card at your local migration office (MA 35 or Bezirkshauptmannschaft), providing all necessary documents such as your diploma, employment contract, criminal record certificate, health insurance and proof of financial solvency.
  • Go through the biometric enrolment process, which includes fingerprinting and photography.

3. Getting a Blue Card

After submitting your application and successfully completing all the verification steps, you will receive a notification that your Blue Card is ready. You will need to collect your Blue Card at the same immigration office where you submitted your application.

The process of obtaining:

  • You will be notified when your Blue Card is ready. This usually takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on the workload of the agency and the complexity of your case.
  • Visit the migration office to obtain a card. You will need to show your identity card and possibly other documents to prove your status and eligibility.

4. Blue Card renewal

If your Blue Card is about to expire, you can apply for a renewal. The renewal process is the same as when you first received your Blue Card, but may include providing updated documentation to prove that you have an employment contract and meet other requirements.

Basic Steps:

  • Apply for a renewal of your Blue Card at the same immigration office where you received your original card.
  • Provide updated documents, including employment contract and proof of health insurance.
  • Receive an extended Blue Card once you have completed the verification process.

Obtaining a Blue Card in Austria is a process that requires careful attention and compliance with all necessary procedures. Depending on your current location, you can apply either through an Austrian consulate abroad or directly at the local migration office in Austria. It is important to prepare all the necessary documents in advance and follow the established procedures in order to minimise waiting times and successfully obtain a Blue Card. This document opens up a wide range of opportunities for professional growth and stable residence in one of the most developed countries in Europe.

Austria blue card processing time

The Blue Card in Austria is an important tool for highly qualified professionals seeking to work and live in one of the most developed countries in Europe. However, the process of obtaining this document requires a certain amount of time, which is important to consider when planning your relocation and employment. In this article, we will look at what factors affect the processing time of a Blue Card application in Austria and how you can optimise the process.

Main factors affecting the processing time of the application

1. Completeness and correctness of documents

One of the key factors determining the processing time of a Blue Card application is the completeness and correctness of the documents submitted. Any deficiencies or errors can significantly slow down the process, as the migration authorities will require additional clarifications or documents.

Recommendations:

  • Check all documents carefully before submitting your application.
  • Make sure that all necessary documents such as diplomas, employment contract, criminal record certificate, health insurance are correctly completed and certified.
  • If necessary, translate the documents into German and have them notarised.

2. Employment of migration authorities

The busyness of migration services also significantly affects the processing time of applications. During periods of increased activity, such as during the summer months or at the beginning of the school year, the process may take longer. In some cases, the processing of applications can take from several weeks to several months.

Recommendations:

  • Submit your application as early as possible to avoid delays due to the high workload of migration services.
  • Plan your move to take into account possible delays in processing your application.

3. Complexity of the case

If your application requires additional checks, for example if your diploma was obtained outside the European Union and requires nostrification, this may also lengthen the processing time. If additional documents or clarifications are needed, the migration authorities may request them from the applicant, which also adds time to the overall process.

Recommendations:

  • Prepare all documents in advance and make sure that the diploma is recognised in Austria.
  • Keep track of the status of your application and respond promptly to enquiries from migration authorities.

4. Filing an application outside Austria

If you are applying for a Blue Card from outside Austria, the first step involves obtaining a D visa through an Austrian consulate or embassy. This step can take several weeks to several months depending on the country of application and the workload of the consulate.

Recommendations:

  • Apply for a D visa as early as possible to minimise waiting times.
  • Make sure you have all the necessary documents to apply for a Blue Card once you enter Austria.

Steps to speed up the Blue Card process

  1. Careful preparation of documents: Make sure that all documents are collected and properly completed before submitting your application. This will help avoid delays and reduce processing time.
  2. Applying at the right time: Try to apply at times when migration services are less busy to speed up the process.
  3. Prompt response to requests: If migration authorities request additional documents or clarifications, provide them as soon as possible so as not to delay the process.
  4. Use professional services: Consider hiring an immigration consultant or lawyer to help you complete the paperwork and follow the process.

The processing time of a Blue Card application in Austria depends on many factors, including the completeness and correctness of the documents, the busyness of the migration services and the complexity of the particular case. On average, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. However, by following the recommended steps and carefully preparing your documents, you can significantly reduce your waiting time and receive your Blue Card faster, opening up a wide range of opportunities to work and live in Austria.

Changing jobs with a blue card in Austria

The Blue Card in Austria is a valuable tool for highly qualified professionals from countries outside the European Union, allowing them to legally work and reside in the country. However, many Blue Card holders wonder what happens if they decide to change jobs. In this article, we take a closer look at all aspects related to changing jobs for Blue Card holders in Austria, including legal requirements, possible risks and the process of notifying the authorities.

Legal aspects of changing jobs

1. Initial conditions for obtaining a Blue Card

The Blue Card is issued on the basis of a specific employment contract with an Austrian employer. This employment contract must meet a number of requirements, including a minimum level of income and the applicant’s qualifications. It is important to realise that the Blue Card is initially linked to this employment contract and employer.

2. Changing jobs in the first two years

During the first two years after receiving your Blue Card, a change of employer requires special attention and prior co-ordination with the Austrian migration authorities. This is because the card is issued on the basis of a specific employment contract and any changes may require a revision of the terms and conditions of your Blue Card.

The process of changing jobs:

  • Notification of the migration authorities: Before changing jobs, you must notify the migration authorities (e.g. MA 35 in Vienna) of your intention. You must submit a new employment contract, which will be checked for compliance with the requirements for the Blue Card.
  • Eligibility for a new employer: The new employment contract must meet minimum income and qualification requirements. If the terms of the new contract differ from the original contract, the migration authorities may reconsider your eligibility for a Blue Card.

3. Change of job after two years

After two years of Blue Card employment, you have more flexibility in changing employers. Although you no longer need prior approval from the migration authorities, you still have to notify them of the change of employment and provide them with a copy of the new employment contract.

Basic Requirements:

  • Notifying the authorities: You must notify the migration authorities of a change of employer within a reasonable time.
  • Compliance Requirements: The new employment contract must continue to meet the minimum income and qualification requirements. Otherwise, the migration authorities may initiate a review of your status.

4. Risks and consequences of non-compliance

Failure to comply with the notification rules of the migration authorities or taking a job that does not meet the Blue Card requirements can lead to the cancellation of your card. This means that you will lose your right to reside and work legally in Austria, which will require you to resolve the situation immediately or leave the country.

The process of changing jobs

1. Finding a new employer

Before notifying the migration authorities of a change of employment, make sure that the new employment contract meets all the requirements for a Blue Card. The contract must include an appropriate level of income and match your qualifications.

2. Notification of migration authorities

When you receive a new job offer, you need to notify the migration authorities. To do this, you will need to provide:

  • A copy of the new employment contract.
  • Confirmation that the new employer meets Blue Card requirements.

3. Awaiting confirmation (for the first two years)

In the first two years, the migration authorities may require additional time to verify the new employment contract and whether all conditions are met. Once approved, you can start working for your new employer.

Conclusion

Changing jobs with a Blue Card in Austria is possible, but requires compliance with certain rules and procedures, especially in the first two years after receiving the card. It is important to notify the migration authorities of any changes and to ensure that the new employment contract meets the requirements of the Blue Card. Following these rules will allow you to maintain your right to work and live in Austria, ensuring stability and further career development.

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