This essential guide from Ingenious Tamilan addresses two critical pathways for Austrian residency:

1. RWR Card for Graduates: If you hold a Bachelor's, Master's, or Diploma from an Austrian university or FH, you can apply for the Red-White-Red (RWR) Card without the standard point system. Key requirements include finding a job that matches your degree and pays a graduate-level salary. Graduates receive a 12-month extension period on their student permit to search for employment. Application fees range from €120 to €160, with processing typically taking 6 to 8 weeks.

2. RWR Family Reunification: RWR or RWR Plus card holders can bring their legally married spouse and children under 18 from India through the family reunification program. The spouse applies for a Visa D at the Austrian embassy in New Delhi or consulate in Mumbai. Crucial requirements include a post-A1 level German certificate and proving financial stability (about €1,800 to €2,000 net income per month for a couple, plus rent/insurance). Documents not in English must be translated into German by a certified translator. Processing generally takes 3 to 6 months.

Avoid common mistakes like forgetting the A1 German certificate or submitting incomplete financial proofs.