Why should Ukrainians consider switching to the RWR+ Card?

If you're a Ukrainian currently living in Austria with temporary protection status (Blue Card), switching to the RWR+ Card offers several important advantages.

Key benefits of switching:

Long-term security

• Your temporary protection status is based on an EU directive. It is currently set to expire in March 2026, even though a further prolongation is likely. This is, however, a political decision on the EU level.  
• With an RWR+ Card, you can stay in Austria even if temporary protection ends. The RWR+ Card is allowing you personally to stay in the country and is not connected to a general status of all Ukrainians or any other group. 
• The RWR+ Card allows you to work, live and travel in Austria as well as gives you access to social benefits and other rights. 

Path to permanent residence

• The time with an RWR+ Card counts toward the 5-year requirement for permanent residence (Daueraufenthalt-EU)
• Time on a Blue Card alone doesn’t lead to permanent status
• After 5 years with proper residence status and meeting language requirements (B1), you can apply for permanent residence and/or citizenship

Family opportunities

• Your spouse/partner and minor children can also receive RWR+ Cards
• Your children can also switch to their own RWR+ Card once they become adults

Professional and financial stability

• The RWR+ Card is recognized as a standard residence permit
• This can make it easier when applying for certain jobs, bank loans, or rental agreements
• Some employers and landlords are more familiar with regular immigration status than temporary protection

Consider switching if:

• You’ve established stable employment or self-employment in Austria
• You plan to make Austria your home beyond March 2026
• You're looking to build a long-term future in Austria

The RWR+ Card represents a step toward integration and permanence in Austrian society, moving from emergency measures to standard immigration status.