Austria point based visa

Austria is loosening immigration requirements for qualified foreigners from outside the European Union to fill gaps left by an aging labor force.

A new "red-white-red card" work permit unveiled Thursday will take effect July 1, allowing non-EU citizens to apply for jobs that Austria is having a hard time filling such as lower level posts and specialized managerial and research positions.

Applicants for the card will be rated on criteria such as language skills, professional experience, education and age.

Social Affairs Minister Rudolf Hundstorfer said Austria needs qualified immigrants because of a decline in the country's labor force over the next 10-15 years.

It is currently very difficult for non-EU foreigners to work in Austria legally.