Key differences between the blue card and the RWR+ Card
Understanding what changes when you switch from temporary protection
If you’re a Ukrainian with temporary protection status in Austria, it's important to understand the differences between your current Blue Card and the RWR+ Card.
Blue Card (Temporary Protection)
- Temporary status that is the same for every Ukrainian and decided on the EU level (currently set to expire in March 2026, prolongation is likely but a political decision)
- Work permission included – you can work anywhere in Austria
- Access to Grundversorgung (basic welfare support) if needed, but not to Austria’s regular social system
- Based on emergency measures for people fleeing Ukraine
RWR+ Card
- Individual residence permit with your own personal validity dates
- Unrestricted work access – both employment and self-employment
- Requires financial self-sufficiency, but gives you regular access to Austria’s social system (e.g. unemployment insurance, family benefits, living cost support)
- Counts toward permanent residence after 5 years
- Can be renewed as long as you meet requirements
- Part of Austria's standard immigration system
Why these differences matter:
The Blue Card is designed as a temporary emergency solution, while the RWR+ Card puts you on a path toward long-term settlement in Austria. With the RWR+ Card, you’re moving from emergency protection based on political decisions to regular immigration status based on your own situation – an important step if you plan to stay in Austria.