Visa & Residence

RWR – Start-up Founders & Self-employed Key Workers (Selbständige Schlüsselkräfte / Start-up-Gründer)

This category is aimed at entrepreneurs who wish to found an innovative business in Austria or invest as a self-employed key worker.

Free initial consultation

Who is it for?

Suited to founders and self-employed key workers with an innovative business idea, investment plan or start-up project that adds value to the Austrian economy. Applications are assessed on criteria such as the business plan, investment amount, job-creation potential and innovation.

Required documents and conditions

  • A concrete and innovative business plan or venture project
  • Proof of sufficient capital or investment resources
  • A profile meeting the threshold required for this category in the points system
  • Job-creation, innovation or economic-contribution potential
  • Valid passport and relevant qualification documents
  • Proof of subsistence and health insurance

How the process works

  1. 1

    Idea & Eligibility Review

    We analyse your business plan and founder profile against the category criteria.

  2. 2

    Business Plan & File

    We prepare a strong file covering the investment, innovation and job-creation rationale.

  3. 3

    Application

    We submit the file to the competent authority and the relevant assessment body.

  4. 4

    Follow-up & Set-up

    We track the process and support company formation and settlement after the decision.

Timeline & fees

Processing time can typically take a few months, depending on the assessment of the business plan. Fees and formation costs are subject to change.

Frequently asked questions

How much investment is required?

A certain minimum capital or investment is expected, and this value is subject to change. We assess your project and shape a suitable plan together.

Is there a separate route for start-up founders?

Yes, innovative start-up founders benefit from specific assessment criteria, where innovation and scaling potential stand out.

How is my business plan assessed?

The business plan is reviewed for economic contribution, innovation, investment and job creation. We strengthen your file against these criteria.

Let us map the right route together

Book a free initial consultation for this process and we will determine the best path for you.

Free initial consultation

The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute binding legal advice. Processes and conditions may change.