Why Fingerprinting?
In order for the Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte to be physically delivered to you, your biometric data, i.e. your fingerprints, must be registered in the digital system. This is a standard procedure for legal residence cards in Austria and ensures the security of your identity data.
Where is Fingerprint Registration?
Fingerprinting is done through the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) or immigration and citizenship office (Magistrat or Bezirkshauptmannschaft) in the state where you are applying. The biometric data collection centers in these offices will process your application.
It is important to contact your nearest institution and follow the instructions.
How Does the Appointment System Work?
You usually need to make an appointment for fingerprint registration in advance. Appointments will be notified to you via the system or by email after your application has been approved. In some states, you may need to make the appointment manually.
Appointment Agencies – State by State:
- Wien:
Appointments are organized by MA 35 – Immigration and Naturalization Service. They can be assigned automatically at the time of application or will be sent to you by e-mail afterwards. - Niederösterreich:
Appointments are handled by the relevant Bezirkshauptmannschaft. The necessary information will be sent by e-mail after the application. - Oberösterreich:
The Bezirkshauptmannschaft is also responsible for fingerprint appointments. The appointment system is usually based on e-mail notification. - Styria:
The local Bezirksverwaltungsbehörde handles the procedure. You will be informed of the appointment date after your application has been approved. - Tyrol, Salzburg, Vorarlberg, Carinthia, Burgenland:
In these states, the procedure is carried out through the respective Bezirkshauptmannschaft. You will receive appointment information by mail or e-mail.
Note: If you do not know which institution you belong to, you can find the correct application point according to your postal code at oesterreich.gv.at.
How is Fingerprint Registration Process Performed?
On the day of the appointment, you go in person to the designated office and provide your fingerprints. This process is very short and involves only the digitalization of your biometric data. Fingerprints of both hands are taken and stored securely in the system.
What are the Required Documents?
Mandatory documents:
Remember to bring the following documents with you to your appointment:
- Valid passport with D visa processed
- Receipt of payment of the card fee
- 1 biometric photograph
- Current criminal record with German translation
- Residence certificate (Meldebestätigung)
- Printout of appointment confirmation email
Optional documents:
- Multilingual birth registration sample (Formula A)
- Multilingual marriage certificate (Formula B)
- Marriage certificate
What Happens After Fingerprint Registration?
After fingerprinting, your biometric data is uploaded into the system and your Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte is printed. The card is usually ready within a few weeks and will be delivered by post or at a designated office. You will be notified of the delivery date by e-mail.
Follow the Process, Get Comfortable
Fingerprint registration, one of the most critical steps of the Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte process, is essential for both your security and the delivery of your card. You can complete the process by paying attention to the rules in whichever state you are in. Prepare your documents, make your appointment on time and go through the process smoothly.
