In a significant policy shift, Austria has recently enacted a new law that provides internally displaced Ukrainians with broader employment opportunities within the country. The Austrian Federal Council has approved this new legislation, which revises the existing framework governing foreign employment.
Under the newly established regulations, Ukrainians will be eligible to apply for a “Red-White-Red Plus Card” (RWR+). This card represents a major advancement in the rights and benefits available to Ukrainian refugees, offering unrestricted access to Austria's job market. Cardholders can live and work in Austria without limitations concerning industry, company, or geographic location.
The RWR+ card provides several key advantages:
1. Unrestricted Labour Market Access: Ukrainian refugees holding the RWR+ can seek employment or engage in self-employment throughout Austria without any restrictions related to their industry, employer, or location within the country.
2. Residency Rights: The card facilitates legal residence in Austria as an internally displaced person, allowing for a stable living situation while in the country.
3. Pathway to Permanent Residency: After a five-year period of holding the RWR+, individuals are eligible to apply for permanent residence within the European Union, marking a significant step towards long-term stability.
4. Family Reunification: The RWR+ allows cardholders to bring their immediate family members to Austria, supporting family unity during their displacement.
5. Extended Stay Beyond Temporary Protection: While temporary protection status, valid until April 3, 2025, provides provisional support, the RWR+ remains valid beyond this period. Cardholders can continue residing in Austria even after the temporary protection status expires. It is important to note that social assistance is not provided under the temporary protection status, but this does not affect the validity of the RWR+ for existing holders.
Additionally, time spent in Austria under temporary protection will count towards the five-year residency requirement for permanent residence and the six-year requirement for citizenship, further integrating Ukrainian refugees into the Austrian social and legal framework.
This legislative move represents a substantial shift in Austria's approach to supporting displaced Ukrainians, enhancing their ability to build a stable life and contribute economically while in the country.