The Austria Seasonal Worker Visa represents a finite labour contract designated for third-country individuals, including labourers from non-European nations.
Austria's Federal Minister of Labor and Economic Affairs has established a predetermined allocation for the engagement of personnel in the domains of tourism and agriculture, as well as for those involved in harvesting, spanning a six-month tenure within a calendar year.
This article delves into the intricate process of procuring the Austria Seasonal Work Visa for the year 2023.
The European Commission approximates that in excess of 100,000 third-country labourers enter the European Union annually with the specific intent of fulfilling seasonal job opportunities.
The exigency for seasonal labour has been progressively escalating within the European sphere. In the year 2017, Austria, at last, put into effect regulations governing the employment of seasonal labour from non-European countries (Non-EU nations).
To date, precisely 49,467 work permits have been granted, underscoring the heightened demand for this category of labour. Comprehensive information regarding the application process and other pivotal particulars is delineated below.
Key Insights into the Austria Seasonal Work Visa Process 2023
- Country of Employment: Austria
- Work Authorization: Red White Red Card
- Visa Category: D Visa
- Housing Provision: Employers are obligated to furnish suitable accommodations.
Unveiling the Austria Red White Red Card
The Austria Red White Red Card represents a multifaceted document, serving as both a work permit and a residency permit meticulously tailored for employment-related endeavours.
This exclusive permit opens doors for individuals hailing from non-European nations who aspire to both inhabit and engage in gainful occupation within the picturesque confines of Austria.
Eligibility Criteria for Austria Seasonal Work Visa Applicants
Austria extends the privilege of unencumbered work and residency to individuals who are citizens of EU member states, exempting them from the necessity of procuring a work permit.
Conversely, for citizens originating from non-EU countries, obtaining a work permit and a long-term stay visa for Austria is a prerequisite to embarking on their intended professional journey.
Quantifying the Allocations for Seasonal Labor
The European Commission's estimations paint a vivid picture, with over 100,000 individuals from third countries venturing into the diverse European landscapes, motivated by the prospects of seasonal labour engagements.
This data is sourced from the EMN Report, reflecting the profound demand for seasonal workers that continues to surge, reaffirming the vitality of such labour in the European labour market.
Over the span of the years 2016 to 2019, Austria granted a cumulative total of 49,467 work permits. The majority of these permits were designated for seasonal labourers and individuals involved in harvesting within the domains of agriculture and forestry.
Job Sector
Tourism Sector:
This sector encompasses a diverse array of domains, including food services, hotels, leisure and sports facilities, travel agencies, cinemas, cultural and entertainment facilities, and healthcare facilities. Seasonal labour opportunities in these sectors offer a wide spectrum of employment options.
Agricultural Sectors and Harvesters:
This sector revolves around activities pertaining to the production and acquisition of plant-based products, viticulture and fruit cultivation, horticultural practices, the care of livestock for breeding, fattening, or the procurement of animal-based products, and also includes hunting and fishing. Seasonal workers in this sector contribute to the vitality of Austria's agricultural and natural resource endeavors.
Duration of Seasonal Work Permit
Seasonal labourers in Austria are eligible for employment for a span of either 6 months or a maximum period of 9 months. It's essential to note that this employment arrangement falls under the category of fixed-term employment, offering flexibility in work tenure.
Validity of Austria Work Visa
The Austria Long Stay D Visa, integral to seasonal employment, will be officially granted with a duration of 24 months. This visa possesses an overarching validity period, with a cap set at a maximum of five years, ensuring long-term flexibility for eligible candidates.
Austria Seasonal Work Visa Requirements
For individuals aspiring to secure a Work Visa for Austria, certain prerequisites must be met:
- A concrete job offer extended by an Austrian employer is imperative. This offer serves as the foundation for the visa application.
- Acquiring a Work Permit (Red White Red Card) is a pivotal step in the process. This document is facilitated by the Austrian Public Employment Service (Arbeitsmarktservice – AMS) and is typically handled by the prospective employer.
- The visa category needed for long-term stays in Austria is the D Visa, which covers stays exceeding 90 days. For shorter stays, the C Visa, which allows for a stay of up to 90 days, is the appropriate choice. These visa categories align with the specific nature and duration of your intended stay in Austria.
Austria Seasonal Work Visa Cost
- Category C visas: €60
- Category D visas: €100
How to Apply for the Austria Seasonal Work Visa 2023?
The application process for the Austria Seasonal Work Visa is outlined in the following step-by-step procedure:
Step 1: Find a Job in Austria
Your journey begins with the essential task of securing employment in Austria. This requires you to apply for and successfully obtain a job offer from an Austrian employer, complete with a valid contractual agreement.
Step 2: Obtain a Work Permit
Subsequently, your prospective employer is responsible for initiating the application for a work permit. This application is directed towards the competent authority of the Austrian Public Employment Service (Arbeitsmarktservice – AMS). Your employer plays a pivotal role in this process, ensuring that all necessary permits are in place.
Step 3: Apply for the Austria D Visa
Once the work permit has been duly granted, your next step is to submit your visa application. This must be done at the competent Austrian embassy or consulate located abroad. It's crucial to ensure all visa-related formalities are addressed in accordance with the specific requirements of your intended stay in Austria.
Austria Trusted Lawyers, Embassies, and Representatives
If you are seeking assistance with your visa application or require support in securing employment in Austria, you can reach out to trusted representatives. The Federal Ministry of the Government of Austria has authorized agents in various countries to facilitate this process.
Check Austria Representatives (Enter your country name)
To find authorized representatives in your country, please enter the name of your country into the search tool provided.
For Additional Information on Austria Seasonal Workers
- Austria Seasonal Worker Website
- Federal Minister of Labour and Economy, Austria
- EU Commission Website on Seasonal Workers
These resources offer comprehensive insights and guidance regarding Austria's seasonal work opportunities, ensuring that you have access to valuable information and support throughout your application and employment journey.
Also Read: 2023 Work Visa Process for Austria (Red-White-Red Card)