What investment or business options are there to live in Austria?

Austria doesn't run a simple "buy residence" investor scheme, but it does have two business-focused tiers within the Red-White-Red Card. The Start-up Founders tier is for non-EU entrepreneurs building an innovative company in Austria. Eligibility is assessed on a points test weighing your business plan, education, experience and the capital you bring, and you'll need evidence of the capital you intend to invest.

The Self-employed Key Workers tier is for self-employed activity that brings wider economic benefit to Austria, not just to your own business. You qualify by meeting at least one macroeconomic criterion: a sustained capital transfer of at least EUR 100,000, the creation or securing of jobs, the transfer of know-how or new technology, or significance for a whole region. You'll also need evidence of your completed vocational or tertiary qualifications, plus a valid travel document and all-risks health insurance. This tier is normally issued for 24 months, with a path to a longer settlement permit afterwards.

Both routes carry a EUR 218 application fee. Because the criteria and thresholds can be revised, confirm the current rules on migration.gv.at before committing funds. ACME is an independent consultancy and offers a free initial consultation to talk through which business route suits your plans.