Red-White-Red Card for Nurses in Austria 2026
Written by
Azra Mehanic
Founder, Move to Austria
Reviewed by
Azra Mehanic
Editorial and source review · August 11, 2026
A practical guide to the 2026 shortage list, recognition, job offer, points and employer-linked residence permit for nurses.
Nursing is on Austria’s 2026 shortage list
Austria’s official nationwide shortage-occupation list for 2026 includes graduate nurses (DGKP), nursing assistants level 2 (PFA) and nursing assistants level 1 (PA). This can make the Red-White-Red Card route for Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations relevant to third-country nationals. Listing is not automatic approval: every applicant must satisfy the applicable qualification, offer, points and immigration requirements.
Professional recognition is a separate gate
Nursing is a regulated health profession. The federal migration portal states that formal recognition is required for regulated professions, so a foreign diploma and shortage listing alone are insufficient. EU, EEA or Swiss qualifications generally follow recognition; third-country qualifications generally follow nostrification. The competent nursing authority decides the Austrian profession and any compensatory measures.
You need a binding offer and employer declaration
This Red-White-Red Card category requires a binding Austrian job offer and an employer declaration. The job, pay and qualification must fit the application and applicable rules. The applicant may file at the Austrian representation abroad, or the prospective employer may file with the competent Austrian residence authority. Verify the current document list, fees and local filing procedure before submission.
Points and the permit still need official assessment
The official points calculator is orientation only; the Austrian Public Employment Service and residence authority assess the evidence. The federal FAQ describes the Red-White-Red Card as a combined residence and employment permit, generally valid for two years and tied to the named employer. Changing employer during that status normally requires a new Red-White-Red Card.
Coordinate recognition, offer and immigration
Do not treat recognition and immigration as consecutive black boxes. Build the recognition file, German plan and employer search together, while making every offer conditional on the lawful title and start date. After qualifying employment for 21 months within the preceding 24 months, Red-White-Red Card Plus may be possible if all requirements are met. Our assessment helps map the route but cannot guarantee either decision.
Helpful resources
Official sources
Requirements and fees can change. Verify your individual case with the responsible authority before applying.
- Austria-wide shortage occupations 2026 — Austrian Federal Government migration portal
- Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations — Austrian Federal Government migration portal
- Red-White-Red Card official FAQ — Austrian Federal Government migration portal
- Recognition and nostrification pathways — Nursing in Austria
