Temporary and permanent residence
Austrian immigration law distinguishes between temporary and an intended permanent residence in Austria. EEA citizens looking for permanent residence in Austria need to apply for a “permanent EU residence permit“. Non-EEA citizens seeking permanent residence and a work permit need to apply for either a “Red-White-Red Card“, a “Red-White-Red Card Plus“, a “Blue EU Card“, or a permanent residence permit. In case of short-term visits, a temporary residence permit will be issued.
Residence permits have to be obtained in person at the responsible Austrian diplomatic representation abroad prior to departure for Austria. There is an exception for citizens of the United States who may enter Austria without a visa or any other entry requirement and apply for residence when already in Austria.
In the case of an artistic production (i.e.: filming in Austria), a residence permit for artists, valid for up to six months, may be obtained for both creative and technical team members. A Secured Permit Confirmation (Sicherungsbescheinigung) is available at the Public Employment Service (AMS) and has to be filed with the Austrian diplomatic representation abroad. The Secured Permit Confirmation is the assurance that the employer will receive work permits for those hired non-EEA citizens who legally enter Austria.
The regional governors and administrative authorities in Austria make the decisions on travel and residence applications but the actual visa or permit document has to be retrieved from the Austrian diplomatic representation abroad.
There is no option to obtain residence permits, temporary or permanent, after a visa-free entry or entry with a travel visa.
Magistratsabteilung 35 (MA 35)
Immigration, Citizenship, Justice of Peace
Dresdner Straße 93
A - 1200 Vienna, Austria
ph: +43 (0)1 4000 -3535
fax: +43 (0)1 4000 -9935010
Public Employment Service Austria (AMS) Landstraßer Hauptstraße 55-57
A - 1030
Vienna, Austriaph: +43 (0)1 87871
fax: +43 (0)1 87871 -50 490