Key Takeaways
- Austria has eased work permit rules, allowing easier job changes and retaining permits during unemployment.
- Foreign workers now have a six-month grace period to find new employment after losing their jobs.
- Processing times for immigration applications have been shortened to 90 days.
Austria has introduced new immigration rules to make it easier for foreign workers to change employers and retain their work permits during periods of unemployment. The changes, effective from August 7, 2026, provide greater flexibility for both workers and employers.
Under the new rules, single permit holders can change employers with approval from the relevant authorities. If no decision is issued within 45 days, they can begin working for the new employer. This provision does not apply to intracompany transfer (ICT) permit holders, and existing rules for EU Blue Card holders remain unchanged.
A significant change is the introduction of a six-month grace period for eligible foreign workers who lose their jobs. Previously, this option was available only to EU Blue Card holders. Affected workers must inform the authorities when their employment ends. The grace period can be extended in certain circumstances, but it does not apply to intracompany transferees, posted workers, and some other permit holders.
The government has also shortened standard immigration application processing times to 90 days after submission of a complete application. However, existing shorter deadlines for Red-White-Red Cards and EU Blue Cards remain unchanged. Some applications involving posted workers and self-employed individuals may take longer.
These reforms are expected to facilitate the job search process for foreign workers, making it easier for them to find new employment without immediately leaving Austria. They may also help employers retain skilled workers, although the easier job changes could increase competition for foreign talent.
The changes are part of Austria's broader strategy to attract and retain foreign workers, particularly in sectors facing labor shortages. The government hopes that these measures will support economic growth and address the challenges of an aging workforce.
