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Migration law & citizenship

Obtain a residence permit
Ensure family reunification
Acquire Austrian citizenship
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Residence permit

If you want to live and work in Austria, you need more than just a vision – you need the right residence permit. Whether it's a visa, a Red-White-Red Card, a Red-White-Red Card Plus, an EU Blue Card or a settlement permit: each model has its own requirements, comes with specific rights and obligations, and must be obtained in different formal ways. Mistakes in the administrative process can not only cause months of delay, but in the worst case can lead to your application being rejected, shattering your dream of living in Austria.

We advise private individuals, companies and skilled workers on applying for residence permits, extensions and status changes. The interplay between Austrian residence, labour and company law is particularly complex for third-country nationals. We guide you through complex administrative procedures and help you settle in Austria.

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Family reunification

Austrian immigration law protects the right to family life, which is enshrined in our constitution. However, the path to family reunification is often rocky. Language and income certificates, integration agreements and deadlines make the application process challenging. Those who wish to bring relatives from third countries to join them need to prepare carefully.
We support you in applying for residence permits for family members, check documents, accompany you to the authorities and represent your interests throughout the entire process. This way, families can remain what they should be: happy together.
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Permanent residence and citizenship

The path to Austrian citizenship is a big step – and often the result and goal of years of integration. Anyone applying for naturalisation must meet numerous requirements, such as a minimum length of residence, proof of secure living conditions, adequate German language skills and knowledge of Austria's democratic system.
We guide you through the entire process: from preparing the application to the decision by the authorities. Whether citizenship is granted by conferral, as a result of marriage to an Austrian citizen or after birth in Austria: we check which path is possible for you and ensure that all documents are submitted completely and on time. At the end of a lengthy integration process, the highlight is the acquisition of Austrian citizenship.
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Reasons for Schmelz lawfirm

Austrian residence law is complex, especially for someone who is unfamiliar with the language, local customs and an unfamiliar legal system. We know how challenging it can be to navigate the jungle of forms, evidence and administrative procedures. That is why we accompany you every step of the way: we check which residence permit or settlement permit is suitable for you, prepare the necessary documents and accompany you to appointments with authorities and administrative courts.

Our many years of experience are also reflected in the fact that we have helped shape decisions on immigration law that are now cited in specialist literature. We put this knowledge to practical use for you: efficiently, solution-oriented and with a clear view of what is realistically feasible. You also benefit from the fact that our partner Eva Schmelz previously worked at the Independent Federal Asylum Senate in Vienna and is therefore familiar with the perspective of the other side – the administrative authorities and courts.

As a law firm with a broad range of expertise, we offer more than just isolated advice on immigration law. We help you find suitable accommodation, take out the necessary insurance, integrate into the local labour market and set up a business in Austria.

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