Ever dreamt of swapping your daily grind for a life filled with stunning mountain views, world-class music, and enough pastries to make your heart sing? Well, Austria is ready to roll out the red carpet for you! One of the key pathways to entering Austria as a skilled worker is through the Austrian Job Seeker Visa (Category D). This visa allows highly qualified individuals to reside in the country for up to six months while they search for employment.
What makes this opportunity even more appealing is the possibility to bring your family along during this job search period. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unravel the secrets of the Austrian Job Seeker Visa (Category D), your golden ticket to a six-month job-hunting adventure in this beautiful country. And the best part? You can bring your family along for the ride! We’ll walk you through the eligibility criteria, the application process, the financial requirements, and everything you need to know to make your Austrian dream a reality.
Austria Allows You to Apply for a Job Seeker Visa with a Family Visa
Austria not only welcomes highly qualified professionals to explore job opportunities within its borders but also allows them to bring their families along during this critical phase. The Austrian Job Seeker Cat-D Visa is designed to facilitate your transition to life in Austria, making it easier for you to settle into your new environment with your spouse or registered partner and minor children by your side. This provision underscores Austria’s commitment to supporting skilled workers and their families, offering them a cohesive and supportive environment during the job search process.
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You can include your family members directly in your Job Seeker Visa application, which simplifies the process significantly. This means that once your visa is approved, your family members will receive their visas as well, allowing all of you to travel to Austria together.
70 Points Needed to Qualify for Austria Job Seeker and Family Visa
To be eligible for the Austrian Job Seeker Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria based on a points system. This system is designed to assess your qualifications and suitability for living and working in Austria. The minimum requirement to qualify for the Austria job seeker visa is a score of at least 70 points.
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• Age is an essential factor in this points system. Younger applicants receive more points, with those aged 18-30 earning the highest score of 20 points. As the applicant’s age increases, the points awarded decrease, with applicants aged 41-45 receiving 5 points.
• Education plays a crucial role as well. Applicants with a university degree, such as a diploma, master’s, or doctorate in a field relevant to their intended employment in Austria, can earn up to 20 points. Those with completed apprenticeships or vocational training relevant to the Austrian labor market can earn up to 10 points.
• Work experience is another critical component. Applicants with relevant work experience within the last ten years can score up to 20 points, depending on the duration and relevance of their experience to the Austrian job market.
• Language skills in both German and English are highly valued. While German language proficiency is preferred, applicants who do not speak German can still earn points by demonstrating English proficiency at level B1 or higher. Applicants with advanced German skills (level B1 or higher) can earn up to 20 points, while those with English skills at the same level can earn 10 points.
In addition to these points, specific professional qualifications that are in high demand in Austria can provide additional points, enhancing your chances of obtaining the visa and you can check high demand or skill shortages here https://www.migration.gv.at/en/types-of-immigration/permanent-immigration/austria-wide-shortage-occupations/.
For family members, eligibility revolves around providing proof of the relationship with the main applicant. This typically involves submitting marriage certificates for spouses or registered partners and birth certificates for minor children. Additionally, each family member must have health insurance that covers all risks in Austria, and you must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means to support your family during your stay.
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Financial Proof and Application Processing Fees for Austrian VISAS
When applying for the Austria Job Seeker Visa, it is crucial to provide evidence that you have the financial means to support yourself and your family without relying on public assistance. The financial requirement is in place to ensure that applicants can sustain themselves during their job search period in Austria alone or with family.
1# Financial Proof: For the main applicant, the minimum financial requirement is around €940 per month. This amount is intended to cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, and other necessities. If you are bringing your family along, you will need to demonstrate that you have additional funds to cover their expenses as well.
2# Application Fee Expenses: Regarding the visa application fees, the costs are relatively straightforward. The fee for the Job Seeker Visa for the main applicant is €150. For each family member included in the application, the fee is €75. It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it is advisable to check the latest information on the official Austrian embassy or consulate website before applying https://www.migration.gv.at/en/types-of-immigration/permanent-immigration/very-highly-qualified-workers/.
Application Process for Austria Job Seeker and Family Visa
Applying for an Austria Job Seeker Visa with a Family Visa involves several key steps, each requiring careful attention to detail to ensure a successful application as described below:
1# Gathering Required Documents: The first step in the application process is to gather all necessary documents for both the main applicant and each family member. For the main applicant, this includes a completed visa application form (https://www.bmeia.gv.at/fileadmin/user_upload/Allgemein/Formulare/Antragsformular_Visum_D_NEU.pdf), a valid passport (which should be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay), and recent passport-sized photographs that meet Austrian visa photo requirements. You will also need to provide proof of accommodation in Austria, such as a rental agreement or hotel booking confirmation, and proof of health insurance that covers all risks during your stay.
Additionally, the main applicant must present proof of sufficient financial means to cover living expenses, as well as documents proving their qualifications, such as diplomas, certificates, and work experience letters. A police clearance certificate from your home country and any other country where you have lived for more than six months in the past three years is also required.
For family members, you will need to gather similar documents, including completed application forms (https://www.bmi.gv.at/312_EN/60a/start.aspx), valid passports, passport-sized photographs, and proof of health insurance. You will also need to provide birth certificates or marriage certificates to prove your relationship with your family members.
2# Translating and Legalizing Documents: If any of your documents are not in German or English, they must be translated by a certified translator. Additionally, some documents may require legalization, such as an apostille or embassy attestation, to be accepted by Austrian authorities.
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3# Submitting the Application: Once all documents are prepared, the next step is to submit your application. This must be done at the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country (Ref). It is essential to submit all documents for both the main applicant and family members together to ensure that your applications are processed simultaneously. Along with the application, you will need to pay the visa processing fees.
4# Awaiting Processing: After submitting your application, you will need to wait for it to be processed. The processing time can vary depending on the volume of applications and the specific circumstances of your case. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to account for any potential delays.
During the processing period, you may be asked to provide additional documents or attend an interview at the embassy or consulate. It is essential to respond promptly to any such requests to avoid delays in the processing of your application.
5# Collecting Passports: Once a decision has been made on your application, you will be notified to collect your passports. If your application is approved, your passport will contain the visa, allowing you and your family to travel to Austria.
Is it Required to Convert the Job Seeker Visa to a Work Visa After Landing a Job?
Yes, once you secure employment in Austria, it is necessary to convert your Job Seeker Visa into a Red-White-Red Card https://www.migration.gv.at/en/types-of-immigration/permanent-immigration/redwhiteredcardplus/. This card serves as both a work and residence permit, allowing you to live and work in Austria legally.
The process of converting your Job Seeker Visa to a Red-White-Red Card begins once you have a job offer. Your employer will need to assist you in submitting the application for the Red-White-Red Card at the local immigration office. The documents required for this process include your valid passport, job offer or employment contract, proof of accommodation, health insurance, and proof of income that meets the required threshold.
Once your Red-White-Red Card application is approved, you and your family can continue to live in Austria, enjoying the benefits of a stable and secure life in one of Europe’s most prosperous countries

Synopsis
Travelers planning to visit Greece need a Schengen visa. The process includes scheduling an appointment, filling out an application form, submitting required documents, attending an interview, and waiting for processing.
Greece is a gorgeous European nation noted for its iconic island destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos, among others. Those planning a trip to Greece, applying for a tourist visa is a must. Because Greece is a European nation, you’ll need to apply for a Schenegen visa. However it’s an easy process if you are aware of all the necessary steps carefully. Whether you`re planning to explore the historic sites of Athens, relax on the beautiful beaches, or experience the vibrant culture, securing your visa is the first crucial step.

Here’s a step-by-step guide that offers a comprehensive overview of the application process, from booking your appointment and gathering essential documents to understanding different visa types and tracking your application.

Concerned about visa rejection? Rest easy with a 100% refund on your bookings via MMT if your visa is denied.

Appointment: First thing first, schedule an appointment for a Schengen visa. This appointment will take place at the Greek Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

Fill your Application Form: Download the Schengen visa application form from the official website of the Greek consulate or embassy and fill it out with each detail accurately.

Documents needed: Submit the completed application form along with all necessary documents. These typically include a valid passport, passport-sized photos, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, a round-trip flight reservation or detailed itinerary, and proof of financial means.

Interview: Once your documents are submitted, you will be called for an interview at the consulate or embassy. Be prepared to answer questions regarding your travel plans and provide any additional information requested.

Processing time: After the interview, you’ll need to wait for the processing of your visa application. The decision will be communicated to you, usually within 15 working days.


Track your visa application: Keep a track of your Greece visa application’s status, log into the official visa tracking website using your application number and travel document number.
Types of Greece Visas
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There are several types of Greece visas based on the purpose of your visit:

Tourist Visa: For visiting Greece as a tourist, you’ll need to apply for a short-stay type C Schengen visa. This allows you to explore Greece and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Documents Required:
Valid passport with at least two blank pages
Completed and signed visa application form
Two passport-sized photos
Travel insurance
Proof of accommodation
Round-trip flight reservation or detailed itinerary
Proof of financial means

Processing Time: Typically up to 15 working days, though delays can occur if there are issues with the application.

Business Visa: For business purposes, you should apply for a short-stay type C Schengen visa, which permits travel and business activities in Greece and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days.

Study Visa: If you intend to study in Greece, you will need a student visa. This visa’s validity depends on the length of your course.


Transit Visa: If you are transiting through Greece to another non-Schengen country, you will need a transit visa. This applies to travellers changing flights or ships at Greek ports.

By following these easy steps, you can enhance the chances of a smooth visa application process for your visit to Greece.

Duo`s arrests follow that of home affairs office cleaner
Office cleaner Rhandzu Chauke with family and lawyer outside the Pretoria magistrate’s court, this after appearing on the charge of theft of home affairs stamp.

The arrest of two undocumented Mozambican nationals in connection with the selling of fake IDs has lifted a lid on an alleged documents-for-cash scheme believed to be happening at the home affairs office in Centurion.
Police have confirmed that the men were part of a syndicate involved in the selling of the documents.
“I can confirm that two more suspects have been arrested linked to this syndicate. They were linked through information received during investigation and information followed up on,” said Gauteng police spokesperson Col Noxolo Kweza.
Fresh details in this case have emerged of how a Mozambican man was going around looking for undocumented migrants who want to buy fake IDs to legitimise their stay in SA.
A home affairs cleaner would then send names of undocumented migrants to someone who prints fake birth certificates and then marks them with a stamp stolen from her office.
Buyers of the fake documents would deposit the money for them into the cleaner`s bank account and she would then give everyone involved in manufacturing the fake documents their share.
The revelations about the work of the alleged syndicate comes at a time when the selling of fake documents is under the spotlight.
I can confirm that two more suspects have been arrested linked to this syndicate. They were linked through information received during investigation and information followed up on.
On Friday, home affairs minister Leon Schreiber published in the Government Gazette a call for the over 700,000 people whose IDs were blocked to provide written reasons and representations within 30 days for why their documents should not be cancelled.
Schreiber said through this move, home affairs aims to both resolve the decades-old issue of wrongfully blocked IDs while reducing the number of fraudulent documents in circulation.
Though unemployed, the arrested men, aged 35 and 47, are said to be driving Audis, have expensive watches as well as pricey luxurious furniture at their Sunnyside and Moreleta Park homes in Pretoria where they were arrested.
Their arrest on Tuesday came just a day after Rhandzu Chauke, who works as a cleaner at the department`s Centurion office, was granted bail over allegations that she was involved in the same fraudulent practices of selling documents.
Speaking to Sowetan on a condition of anonymity, a source close to the case said allegations were that the men, who came to SA illegally a few years ago and managed to get fake documents bearing Nguni names, work with Chauke in selling fraudulent documents.
The men allegedly got their own fake documents from a home affairs official who no longer works at the Centurion office.
`They only started working with Chauke last year after that official left,` the source said.
Chauke, who is alleged to be the middleman in the entire operation, was arrested last week Thursday and charged with theft over a stamp that went missing last year April.
It was linked to her when a 24-year-old undocumented Mozambican man wanting to apply for an ID arrived at the home affairs Centurion offices with a fake birth certificate bearing the missing stamp from August last year, four months after it went missing.
Kweza said when the man was asked where he got the fake birth certificate from, he said he had bought it for R6,000 from a cleaner working there.
Investigations were then done and the cleaner turned out to be Chauke.
Telling Sowetan how the alleged scam worked, the source said one of the arrested men, who is 47 years old, would act as a runner by looking for undocumented Mozambicans and Zimbabweans who wanted to buy SA identities.
Upon finding the `clients`, the man would refer them to Chauke. From there, Chauke would get the details of the person and give them to the 35-year-old man.
This 35-year-old man has connections to a man in Johannesburg who prints birth certificates.
The Johannesburg man would then print fake birth certificates and legitimise them with the stamp that was stolen from one of the home affairs officials working at the Centurion offices with Chauke.
After the documents have been printed, the 35-year-old man would then take them to Chauke.
`The buyers would then deposit the money into Chauke`s bank account.
`She would then make sure that everyone gets their cut and she give it to them via cash send,` said the source.
It is not yet known just how long these men have allegedly been involved in this scam but it is believed to have been years.
The source said the men were arrested after Chauke told police about them after her arrest over the stolen stamp.
The two men were expected to appear in court on Friday

Minister Leon Schreiber described the arrest of 95 Libyan nationals at a suspected military training camp and the ongoing investigation of the mother of a former Miss South Africa contestant as ‘symptoms of a systemic crisis’ at Home Affairs. His solution is digital transformation, but it’s been on the agenda before.

SAA has informed the trade that the South African Border Management Authority (BMA) and Department of Home Affairs are in the process of rolling out the Biometric Movement Control Systems (BMCS) at all ports of entry before September 30.

The planned start date for the BMCS roll-out at OR Tambo International Airport is scheduled for this week (August 19-23).

“As we are all aware the BMCS takes longer to process customers, which will mean an increase per passenger processing time resulting in possible long immigration/emigration queues during peak operational periods. This will negatively impact international arrivals baggage collection and possibly result in passengers missing connecting flights,” SAA said in the notice.

Passengers have therefore been requested to check in early and proceed through security early, leaving sufficient time for immigration processes.

Travel News tried to contact the BMA for more information but the phones listed on its website went unanswered.