Residence permits and visas

International researchers and staff who wish to work at the University of Salzburg require different visas or residence permits depending on their country of origin and the duration of their stay. The Welcome Center supports academic staff at the University of Salzburg with the application, extension and conversion of these documents.

Visa requirements and visa types

For EU/EEA/Switzerland:
No visa requirement
For stays longer than 3 months: Registration Certificate required

For third‑country nationals:
Visa C: Short‑term stay up to 90 days (e.g. for conferences)
Visa D: Stay up to 180 days, also valid for employment
Visa‑free entry: Possible for holders of a “Researcher” residence permit from another EU Member State (except Ireland and Denmark) – for up to 180 days within 360 days
Residence Permit – Researchers

Valid for 24 months
Authorises dependent research employment
Requires a hosting agreement with a recognised research institution (University of Salzburg)
Can be extended once for 12 months (e.g. for job‑seeking or starting a business)
After 21 months of employment, it is possible to switch to the Red‑White‑Red Card Plus
Family Reunification

Family members (spouses, registered partners, minor children) may accompany or join you under certain conditions:

Also possible: “Residence Permit – Dependant” for other relatives in cases of special dependency or care needs

Residence Permit “Family Member” with unrestricted access to the labour market

For third‑country nationals: a quota place may be required

Requirements include, among others: secure livelihood, and a valid residence permit of the person they are joining
Application process<br>

The first‑time application must be submitted before entering Austria at the competent Austrian representation authority in your home country.
Processing time: up to 8 weeks – early application is strongly recommended.
Erforderliche Dokumente (je nach Aufenthaltstitel):

If applicable, visa or residence permit from another EU Member State

Valid passport

Hosting agreement or employment contract

Proof of secure livelihood

Health insurance

Proof of accommodation

Exclusive services offered by the University of Salzburg

The Welcome Center at the University Salzburg supports new international employees (academic staff, postdocs, newly appointed professors) and international visiting scholars, as well as their families, in planning, preparing for and carrying out their stay at the University of Salzburg.Exklusive Angebote der Universität Salzburg

Your advantages as an employee of the University of Salzburg

Discover our benefits

Flexible working hours, professional development, work–life balance – discover the University of Salzburg as an employer.

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Useful links and downloads

Below you will find a list of helpful information pages and downloads to ensure a smooth start in Salzburg.

Leben und Arbeiten in Salzburg

Umfassende Informationen zu Alltag, Freizeit, Wohnen und Arbeiten in Salzburg für internationale Fachkräfte.