What is the Red-White-Red Card plus and how do I move onto it from the shortage-occupation card?

The Red-White-Red Card plus is the follow-on permit that removes the single-employer restriction. Where the original shortage-occupation card ties you to one employer, the Card plus grants unlimited access to the Austrian labour market.

Per the official source, eligibility for the Card plus generally requires demonstrating about 21 months of qualifying employment within a 24-month period. This is why keeping continuous, properly paid employment with your sponsor matters: it builds the record you need. Track your employment months carefully and apply for the Card plus before your initial card expires.