Get a Residence Certificate (Meldebestätigung)
When you settle in Austria, you will first need to obtain a Meldebestätigung (residence certificate). This document allows you to officially register your residence in Austria. Obtaining a residence permit proves that you continue to live here and is important for the extension of your Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte.
Learn German
Learning German is one of the most important steps in integration. Language proficiency makes it easier for you to adapt to social life in Austria. Furthermore, you may need to have a certain level of language proficiency in order to extend your Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte. Language courses offered by the ÖIF can help you to speed up your integration process and give you an advantage when applying for an extension.
Register for Health Insurance (HSA)
Registering for health insurance with the ÖGK (Österreichische Gesundheitskasse) is a proof that you continue to live in Austria. Health insurance is another proof of your official residence in Austria and is an important factor in extending your Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte.
Job and Career Opportunities
Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte holders have the right to work, which is important for your professional life in Austria. Finding a job is part of the integration process. Participation in the labor market can influence the extension of your Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte. If you are not participating in the labor force, there is a risk that your integration process will slow down and your card will not be extended.
The AMS (Austrian Employment Agency) can help you with your job search and as long as you continue working here, the insurance and income provided by your employer will support your integration process.
Meet the Local Community and Start Your Social Life
In Austria, participating in local activities helps you to integrate more quickly into social life. Volunteer work, cultural activities and community involvement are all part of integration. This kind of social involvement can also be instrumental in extending your Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte, as the Austrian government encourages active participation in the integration process.
Family Reunification Opportunities
If you plan to bring your family to Austria, you can start the family reunification process. Family reunification strengthens your integration process in Austria and can be an indication that you continue to live with your family. This process is also a factor to be taken into consideration when applying for an extension of the Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte.
Public Transportation and Daily Life
To make daily life in Austria easier, you will need to take care of things like public transportation and bank accounts. Public transportation helps you understand local life and allows you to establish a regular lifestyle. Also, your banking transactions are important to prove your residency in Austria.
Legal Support and Legal Rights
Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte holders have legal rights in Austria. You can get legal support from organizations such as MA35 and ÖIF and find out about the documents required for job applications. Also, making sure that your integration process is going smoothly will help you when applying for an extension.
Impact of the Integration Process on Time Extension
The extension of your Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte depends on how you have contributed to the integration process. If you attend language courses, adapt to your social life and actively participate in the labor force, the Austrian government may recognize that you have successfully completed your integration process and extend your card. Therefore, regular and active follow-up of your integration process contributes greatly to the extension of your card.
This guide contains the basic steps to help Rot-Weiss-Rot-Karte holders to build an easier life in Austria. Integration is also important in the extension process. By following these steps step by step, you can make your life easier and secure your legal rights.
