What’s the difference between the Red-White-Red Card and the RWR Card Plus?
If you’re planning to live and work in Austria — or bring your family — you’ve probably come across these two terms:
Red-White-Red Card and Red-White-Red Card Plus.
They may sound similar, but they serve different legal purposes. Understanding the difference can help you plan your stay — and your family’s too.
Let’s break it down.
🔴 What is the Red-White-Red Card?
The Red-White-Red Card (RWR Card) is a work and residence permit for qualified non-EU nationals who:
- Have a job offer in Austria, and
- Meet certain points-based criteria (education, experience, salary, etc.)
It’s valid for up to 2 years and:
- Ties you to one specific employer
- Allows residence and employment, but only with that employer
This card is meant to attract skilled workers — like IT specialists, engineers, researchers, and other professionals.
🔴🔴 What is the Red-White-Red Card Plus?
The Red-White-Red Card Plus (RWR Plus) is a more flexible residence permit. It allows:
- Free access to the Austrian labor market (you can work for any employer)
- Residence without employment (e.g., for family members or freelancers)
- Valid for up to 3 years, renewable
You can receive the RWR Card Plus if:
- You held a regular RWR Card and worked continuously for 21 of the last 24 months
- You’re a family member of someone who already holds a RWR Card or Blue Card
✅ Unlike the standard RWR Card, the RWR Plus is not tied to one employer — it gives you real flexibility to change jobs or work part-time.
👨👩👧👦 Why do family members get the RWR Card Plus?
Austria encourages family reunification, and the law recognizes that spouses, registered partners, and minor children need stability — especially when they move with a skilled worker.
That’s why family members of RWR or Blue Card holders are typically granted the Red-White-Red Card Plus, which:
- Does not tie them to a specific job
- Allows them to work freely or not work at all
- Is valid for up to 12 months (initially), then renewable for 3 years
📌 They still need to prove income, housing, and health insurance — usually through the main applicant’s documents.
📝 Quick Comparison Table
Feature | RWR Card | RWR Card Plus |
Purpose | Work + residence | Residence with open work rights |
Job tied to one employer? | Yes | No (free labor market access) |
Validity | Up to 2 years | Up to 3 years |
Who gets it? | Skilled workers | Long-term workers or family members |
Work permit for family members? | Not included | Yes (RWR Plus = full access) |
💬 Mundo Mentors Tips
📅 Plan ahead: Family members need to apply separately, but often at the same time as the main applicant.
🛡️ Use the RWR Plus smartly: It’s a great stepping stone to long-term residency or even Austrian citizenship after 6–10 years.
🔍 Check salary thresholds and points carefully — the RWR Card is granted only if both employer and employee meet strict criteria.
🤝 Need Support?
We’ve helped dozens of international professionals and families apply for the right type of permit — and avoid delays or denials.
At Mundo Mentors, we assist with:
✔️ RWR and RWR Plus eligibility checks
✔️ Step-by-step document preparation
✔️ Family reunification applications
✔️ Renewal strategies and paths to permanent residence
📩 Email us: office@mundomentors.com
📅 Or book a one-on-one session to plan your move with clarity
💬 “Mundo Mentors helped us move to Austria as a couple. My wife got her RWR Plus with full work rights — now we both work here and feel settled.” – Former client, Upper Austria
✨ Final Thought:
The Red-White-Red Card opens the door. The RWR Plus gives you the freedom to build a life in Austria — with your partner, family, and career in sync.
Ready to make your move smooth? We’re here to help every step of the way.