🎯 The Red-White-Red Card is Austria’s skilled immigration pathway – and nursing is a declared shortage occupation, meaning Indian nurses qualify automatically with maximum points. Here is exactly how it works.
While Germany uses the standard Skilled Worker Visa, Austria has its own unique immigration pathway: the Red-White-Red Card (Rot-Weiß-Rot Karte). Understanding this card is essential for any Indian nurse targeting Austria – and the good news is that it is actually designed to make qualification easy for healthcare workers.
The Red-White-Red Card is a combined work and residence permit for non-EU skilled workers. Valid for 24 months and renewable. After 21 months, holders can apply for the Red-White-Red Card Plus – which allows unrestricted access to the entire Austrian labour market and is a step toward permanent residency.
| Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| Shortage Occupation (Nursing) | 55 points – automatic qualification |
| B2 German Language | Additional 15 points |
| Work Experience 2+ years | Additional 10 points |
| Points Required to Qualify | 50 points total |
| Indian Nurse Typical Score | 55–80 points – easily qualifies |
As a nurse – a declared shortage occupation in Austria – you receive 55 automatic points. The threshold is 50. Most Indian nurses qualify for the Red-White-Red Card on the basis of their occupation alone, before any other criteria are considered.
Step 1 – Secure an Austrian Job Offer
A confirmed offer from an Austrian hospital or care home is required. Jet Set Jobs connects nurses with Austrian
employer partners to facilitate this.
Step 2 – Begin Qualification Recognition
(Nostrifikation)
Your nursing degree must be recognised by the Austrian Federal Ministry for Health. This runs parallel to the
visa process and typically takes 3–5 months.
Step 3 – Submit RWR Card Application
Apply at the Austrian Embassy in New Delhi with your job offer, qualification documents, B2 certificate, and
passport. Processing: 8–14 weeks.
Step 4 – Arrive and Register
Upon arrival, register at your local Meldeamt (residents’ registration office), open a bank account, and begin
work. Your employer supports this process.
📞 Free Consultation – Call / WhatsApp: / +91 96259 66817 Email: support@jetsetjobs.in Website: Jet Set Jobs.in 583+ nurses have started their journey with Jet Set Jobs. Free B2 training. Zero recruitment fees.
