Are you an Australian citizen considering a move to Austria to join your Austrian partner? At Law and Beyond, we specialize in guiding international couples through the intricacies of Austrian immigration law. This article outlines key information about family reunification in Austria, tailored for Australians contemplating this significant life change.
Family Reunification in Austria: An Overview
Austria’s constitution provides protection for family units, a principle that extends to immigrants. For non-EU citizens, including Australians, family reunification is possible under specific conditions. Here’s what you need to know:
Who is Considered Family?
- Spouses and registered partners (both spouses/partners must be at least 21 years old)
- Minor, unmarried children (including adoptive and stepchildren)
Residence Permit Options:
- “Family Member”
- “Settlement Permit – Relative”
- “Red-White-Red Card Plus”
Each of these comes with different rights, especially regarding work. The “Family Member” and “Red-White-Red Card Plus” options give you unlimited access to the job market – perfect if you’re looking to continue your career or start a new adventure in the Austrian workforce. Metropolitan cities should also offer ample job opportunities, even while your German language proficiency is still improving.
The Austrian Context: Key Considerations for Australians
When transitioning from Australia to Austria, several factors are worth noting:
- Healthcare: Austria boasts a world-class healthcare system, often ranked among the best globally.
- Work-Life Balance: With an average 38.5-hour work week, Austria offers excellent work-life balance.
- Geographic Advantage: Austria’s central European location facilitates easy travel across the continent.
- Cultural Richness: From classical music to contemporary art, Austria offers a vibrant cultural scene.
- Climate: Unlike much of Australia, Austria experiences four distinct seasons, including snowy winters. This is a special draw for anybody looking forward to engage in Alpine winter sports.
The fact that Austria’s capital Vienna was (repeatedly) awarded the Mercer award for the city with the highest quality of living bears further testament to why people are considering relocating here.
The how-to of family reunification
- Requirements to prove include:
- Proof of sufficient income (don’t worry, we’ll help you figure out what’s “sufficient”)
- Suitable accommodation
- Health insurance
- German language skills (first applications will often require German level A1 while exceptions may apply)
- The Process:
- Gather all necessary documents (we’ll provide a checklist)
- Submit your application (usually at the Austrian embassy in Canberra or directly in Austria)
- Wait for processing (patience is a virtue!)
- Receive your permit and start your Austrian adventure
How Law and Beyond Can Assist
Our team of expert lawyers specializes in both family and immigration law, positioning us uniquely to guide you through this process. We offer:
- Comprehensive consultations in English
- Detailed guidance through each step of the application process
- Assistance with document preparation and submission
- Representation in dealings with Austrian authorities
- Ongoing support as you establish your new life in Austria
We understand that relocating across the world is a significant decision. Our goal is to ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible from a legal standpoint, allowing you to focus on the exciting aspects of your move.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at any time.
