How does Student Residence Permit work in Austria, and who qualifies?

The Student Residence Permit is the route for international (non-EU) students accepted onto a full-time course at an Austrian university or recognised institution. To get it you need admission to a recognised education institution, proof of adequate means of subsistence (including accommodation costs), all-risks health insurance, and payment of tuition where it applies. At public universities, third-country tuition is currently EUR 726.72 per semester.

The permit lets you study full time and work up to 20 hours a week with an employment permit — and notably, no labour-market test applies for that 20-hour cap. Just as importantly, after you finish your degree you can stay on for up to 12 months to look for a job or start a business.

That post-study window connects neatly to the next step. The Red-White-Red Card for Graduates of Austrian Universities has no points test at all — you simply need a graduate-level job offer at the locally customary salary — which makes studying in Austria one of the most direct on-ramps into the workforce.

Tuition figures and conditions can change, so check the current details on migration.gv.at before applying.