Austria boasts one of the highest standards of living and strongest social safety nets in the European Union. Faced with an aging workforce, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy (BMAW) regularly publishes the Austria Shortage Occupations List (Mangelberufe). In 2026, foreign professionals matching these nationwide and regional shortage occupations qualify for the prestigious Red-White-Red Card (Rot-Weiß-Rot-Karte) with significantly reduced points thresholds.
What Is the Austria Shortage Occupations List (Mangelberufe)?
Under Section 12a of the Austrian Act Governing the Employment of Foreigners (AuslBG), occupations experiencing a national ratio of fewer than 1.5 registered job seekers per vacancy are officially gazetted as shortage trades. Applicants applying for jobs on this list need only 50 points (instead of the standard 55-70 points) on the Austrian immigration points calculator.
Top Shortage Occupations in Austria for 2026
| Occupational Category | Eligible Job Titles | Minimum Gross Monthly Pay (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical & Electrical Engineering | Electrical Engineers, Automation Techs, Mechanical Designers | €3,400 – €4,800 + 13th/14th salary |
| Skilled Construction Trades | Bricklayers, Concrete Workers, Pavers, Roofers | €2,800 – €3,800 + allowances |
| Automotive & Metal Processing | CNC Machinists, Toolmakers, Auto Mechanics | €2,900 – €3,900 + shift bonus |
| Healthcare & Medical Technicians | Graduate Nurses, Physical Therapists, Lab Techs | €3,200 – €4,400 + holiday pay |
The 14-Month Salary System in Austria
Under Austrian collective agreements (Kollektivvertrag), employees in Austria receive 14 monthly salaries per year instead of 12. The 13th salary (Urlaubszuschuss – holiday bonus paid in June) and 14th salary (Weihnachtsgeld – Christmas bonus paid in November) are taxed at a preferential low rate of only 6%, providing substantial extra savings for international workers.
How to Apply for the Red-White-Red Card:
- Secure a binding job offer from an Austrian employer matching the Mangelberufe list.
- Calculate your points (age, qualifications, work experience, English/German language skills).
- Submit the application to the Austrian Embassy or directly through the employer to the regional Austrian Public Employment Service (AMS – Arbeitsmarktservice).
- Receive the 2-year Red-White-Red Card, allowing work and residence across Austria with immediate family relocation rights.
