Visa Duration

The Austria Job Seeker Visa is valid for 6 months. It allows you to legally stay in Austria while you actively search for a job that matches your qualifications.

Where to Apply in Pakistan

You must apply through the Austrian Embassy in Islamabad. Here’s how the process works:

• Book a visa appointment online via VFS Global or the embassy’s website.

• Visit the embassy in person to submit your documents.

• Provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) during your visit.

Visa Fees and Processing Time

• Visa Fee: Approximately €150 (around PKR 48,000)

• VFS Service Charges: Around PKR 12,000

• Processing Time: Typically 4 to 8 weeks after your appointment

In-Demand Job Sectors in Austria

Pakistani professionals are more likely to get hired in the following fields:

• Information Technology and Software Development

• Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil)

• Healthcare (Nurses, Technicians, Care Workers)

• Scientific Research and MINT Fields (Mathematics, Informatics, Natural Sciences, Technology)

Having qualifications in these sectors increases your chances of scoring high on Austria’s points-based visa system.

Degree Attestation for Pakistanis

To prove your academic qualifications, follow these steps:

1. Get your degrees attested by the Higher Education Commission (HEC).

2. After that, get the same documents attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Pakistan.

3. If your documents are not in English or German, certified translations are required.

Language Requirements

While IELTS is not mandatory, you can earn additional points by showing basic German language proficiency.

• Recommended levels: A1 or A2

• You can learn German from:

  • Goethe-Institut Pakistan

  • Local German language academies in major cities

Even basic language skills can boost your chances of visa approval and help you adjust to life in Austria.

Proof of Funds

To get this visa, you must show enough money in your personal bank account to cover your living expenses for 6 months.

• Required monthly amount: €1,200 to €1,300

• Total required: Around €7,500 to €8,000

Ensure the funds are in your account at least 4 to 6 weeks before your visa appointment to avoid rejection.

Red-White-Red Card: Your Work Permit After Getting Hired

If you find a job during your 6-month stay, you can apply for Austria’s Red-White-Red Card, which is both a residence and work permit. It gives you:

• Legal right to work and live in Austria

• Eligibility to bring your spouse and children under family reunification

• A path to apply for permanent residency after a few years

• Flexibility to change employers or work part-time

What If You Don’t Find a Job in 6 Months?

If you are unable to find a job within the visa’s 6-month validity:

• The visa cannot be extended or renewed

• You must leave Austria before it expires

• You can reapply after 12 months with updated documents and qualifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IELTS required for the Austria Job Seeker Visa?
No. IELTS is not required. However, basic German (A1 or A2) or English language skills will help you score higher in the visa points system.

Can I bring my family on this visa?
Not immediately. You can bring your family only after obtaining the Red-White-Red Card.

Can I work part-time while on this visa?
No. The Austria Job Seeker Visa does not allow you to work. You can start working only after switching to the Red-White-Red Card.

Quick Reference Table

Final Tips for Pakistani Applicants

• Start preparing your attested and translated documents well in advance.

• Enrol in a basic German language course to improve your visa chances.

• Maintain the required bank balance for several weeks before applying.

• Be proactive in applying to jobs, networking, and attending interviews.

• Once hired, immediately apply for the Red-White-Red Card to unlock work rights and family reunification options.