Residence & Settlement Law

Your Attorney for Residence and Settlement Law in Austria

Austrian immigration law is complex and subject to continuous change. As one of Austria’s leading law firms in the field of residence and settlement law, we advise and represent third-country nationals, EU citizens, and their family members in all matters relating to residence permits, settlement, access to the labour market, and the acquisition of real estate in Austria.

Our extensive experience in dealing with Austrian embassies, residence and settlement authorities, and the Public Employment Service (AMS) allows us to handle applications efficiently and to avoid unnecessary delays.

Since the founding of our firm, we have assisted numerous clients in identifying the most suitable residence permits for their individual circumstances and in successfully navigating the relevant administrative procedures.

Our services in
Residence & Settlement Law

Residence Permits & Settlement in Austria

We advise and assist you in selecting and applying for the residence permit best suited to your individual circumstances, including:

  • Red-White-Red Card for highly qualified professionals, key personnel, shortage occupation workers, self-employed key personnel, and start-up founders
  • EU Blue Card for university graduates and third-country nationals with comparable professional experience
  • Red-White-Red Card Plus for holders of a Red-White-Red Card or EU Blue Card who have been employed for at least 21 of the preceding 24 months in accordance with the applicable requirements; as well as for family members of holders of a Red-White-Red Card (Plus), EU Blue Card, or certain settlement permits
  • Residence permits for family members for the purpose of family reunification
  • Residence permits for students, self-employed persons, and specific forms of dependent employment
  • Long-term Residence – EU for third-country nationals after five years of lawful and continuous residence
  • Registration certificates and residence cards for EU citizens and their family members
  • Residence permits on the grounds of private and family life (Section 55 Asylum Act)
  • Residence permits in cases deserving special consideration (Section 56 Asylum Act)

Visas for Temporary Residence in Austria

We assist you in selecting and applying for the appropriate visa, including:

  • Visa C (Schengen visa) for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period (e.g. tourism or business visits)
  • Visa D (national visa) for stays of 91 days up to six months. In exceptional cases, a Visa D may be issued for a period of up to 12 months (e.g. on the basis of international agreements)

Residence Permits with Access to the Labour Market

Many residence permits require prior approval from the Public Employment Service (AMS). We provide comprehensive advice and support in obtaining, in particular:

  • Red-White-Red Card for qualified workers
  • EU Blue Card for university graduates
  • Work permits for dependent (salaried) employment
  • Residence permits and business licenses for self-employed individuals

Our goal is to ensure a smooth and efficient integration into the Austrian labour market.


Red-White-Red Card: Working and Investing in Austria

The Red-White-Red Card enables qualified professionals and entrepreneurs to live and work in Austria.

  • For employees: Academics and skilled workers require a job offer from an employer that corresponds to their qualifications and provides appropriate remuneration.
  • For self-employed persons: Entrepreneurs who create jobs through their investment or contribute specialized expertise may apply for a Red-White-Red Card for self-employed key personnel.
  • Permanent Residence – EU: After five years of lawful residence in Austria and proof of sufficient German language skills, you may apply for a Long-term Residence – EU permit.

The wide range of residence permits can be complex and difficult to navigate. We assist you in identifying the most suitable permit for your individual situation and support you throughout the entire application process.


Real Estate Purchases by Third-Country Nationals

In many Austrian federal states, the acquisition of land or residential property by third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) requires prior official approval. Without such approval, registration in the land register is not possible.

We advise you comprehensively on the applicable legal framework and guide you reliably through the approval process, ensuring that your real estate transaction is legally secure.


Immigration Law: Why RIHS Law Firm?

  • Recognized expertise in immigration law – Extensive experience and a strong track record in residence and settlement law
  • Specialization in public law – As a boutique law firm focused on public law, we possess in-depth knowledge of Austrian immigration law
  • Efficient handling of applications – Close cooperation with the competent authorities helps to avoid unnecessary delays
  • Tailored legal solutions – Individual advice adapted to your personal and professional circumstances
  • International client support – We handle your case efficiently, even if you are not physically present in Austria

Contact us to arrange an initial consultation with a specialized immigration lawyer in Austria.