Work Permit in Slovakia

A lot of foreign specialists come to Slovakia because of the favorable business environment and stable economy of this country. A work permit is required for the legal employment of a foreign national in Slovakia. The following article will outline key aspects connected with obtaining such a permit and a few important requirements that should be met.

The Basic Document Requirements

Application Procedure

Renewal of work permit

It is advisable that renewal applications for the work permit should be made some months in advance from the date of expiration of the current permit, and the updated documents proving the continuation of the employment relationship and the existence of funds for subsistence costs should be provided.

What is the Slovakia Work Visa?

A work visa to Slovakia is a substantial element when citizens of non-European Union countries wish to be employed in the country. Slovakia, while joining the European Union, offers a wide range of opportunities for international professionals and investors, so the work visa becomes an essential part of migration policy.

Requirements for Obtaining a Work Visa

Application Process for a Work Visa

Obtaining a work visa to Slovakia is a painful process that requires serious preliminary preparation and attention to details. Professional preparation of documents and proper understanding of the Slovak legislation will significantly facilitate the process of obtaining a visa and further adaptation in the country.

How to Apply for a Work Visa in Slovakia in 2024?

Getting a work visa in Slovakia needs some preparation and strict adherence to local legislation. The application process for a work permit in 2024 is structured, with every step of the application process needing adherence.

Confirming the job offer

The first and foremost important thing to do is to receive a formal job offer from an employer in the Slovak Republic. It needs to be approved by the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family of the Slovak Republic confirming the need for foreign labor.

Gather the needed documentation

In the case of a category D visa, one would need preparation of the following dossier of documents:

• The completed form of the visa application.
• A valid passport.
• The photos should be proper for the requirements of the embassy.
• Documentary evidence of sufficient financial means to live in Slovakia.
• Certificate of no criminal record.
• Medical insurance to cover the whole period of stay.
• Employment contract approved by the Ministry of Labour.

Document Submission

Visa documents shall be submitted personally at the consular section of the Slovak Embassy or Consulate in your country. Sometimes it is possible to apply through an accredited visa agency.

Getting an interview

Once the preliminary verification of the documents has been made, applicants are invited to an interview. During the interview, the consular officer will verify applicants’ compliance with the requirements of the visa and applicant’s intention for travelling to Slovakia.

Waiting for the decision

The time of the processing of a work visa application usually takes up to 1 or 3 months. During that period of time, the applicant is prohibited to enter Slovakia.

How can I get a Slovakian work visa and permit?

To be allowed to legally work in Slovakia, any foreigner needs to have both a work visa and a work permit. Such a procedure may seem complicated, but with an appropriate approach and preparation, it is quite feasible.

Documents that are required to make an application for a Slovakia work visa.

A successful Slovakia work visa application will need a set of documents as proof of the right of work and stay in the country. The following documents are relevant for the year 2024 and are used as a basis in preparation for the visa application process.

Basic documents

Passport-valid for 3 months beyond the date of the requested visa expiry date.

A completed visa application form is an official document given to an applicant and needs to be carefully and accurately completed, following in a certain order.

Photos-it usually requires 2 photos that respond to certain standards of visa photos: size, background, facial expression.

Documentary proof of employment – a contract or a letter from a Slovak employer approved by the Slovak Ministry of Labour.

Proof of qualifications – diplomas, certificates and other documents confirming professional skills and education.

Criminal record certificate – not older than 90 days at the time of application.

Health insurance – covering the whole period of stay in Slovakia.

Financial and supporting documents

Proof of sufficient funds – bank statements or documents proving the availability of funds for living in Slovakia.

Accommodation reservation – a document proving the availability of accommodation in Slovakia, such as a rental contract, letter from an employer about the provision of accommodation, etc.

Procedural aspects

Proof of payment of the consular fee – a receipt of payment of the fee required for the examination of documents.

Copies of all documents submitted – some consulates require both originals and copies of documents.

Where and when can you apply for an Slovakia work visa?

A work visa to the Slovak Republic is a critical step towards pursuing work opportunities for foreign nationals. The following sections discuss at length the two essential elements in applying for a work visa-application timing and application institutions.

Where to apply for a work visa

Above all, it is necessary to determine the exact place of filing. Options look as follows:

Slovak embassy or consulate. An application for a work visa is to be filed at the Slovak diplomatic missions abroad. This is the main and most common option for submitting an application.

Visa Application Centre. In some countries the functions of visa application acceptance may be delegated to specialised visa centres accredited by the Embassy of Slovakia.

Early filing. It is recommended that you apply 3-4 months before your expected start date. This, in fact, is because the review process could take several weeks to several months.

Seasonal fluctuations. During certain periods of the year, like during the summer months or at the eve of major holidays, the consular services are busier. This may lead to longer time in processing.

Preparing to submit an application

First of all, it is worth checking beforehand that all the documents needed are prepared. Please note that the list of required documents is subject to change, and it is your responsibility to check on the current list either with the embassy’s website or at the visa application center. Moreover, it may be worth checking in advance what possible dates there will be to make an appointment for an interview, if this is a procedure required by the Visa Application Center.

For how long is the work visa to Slovakia valid?

A work visa to Slovakia opens up employment opportunities for foreign professionals in this country. In this respect, the validity of a work visa is a significant element of planning for long-term employment and residence in Slovakia.

Main types of work visas and their validity periods

1. Short-term visa C – intended for temporary travel, including business visits or short-term labor activity up to 90 days. This visa is not renewable in the Slovak Republic.
2. Long-term visa (type D) – is issued for a period of up to one year and may be extended on the grounds of proving further employment. This is necessary in the case of those who intend to work in Slovakia for more than three months.

How to Extend a Work Visa Procedure

Application for the extension of a work visa in Slovakia, with submission of the relevant documents, has to be filed several months in advance of the expiry of the existing visa. The visa is extended only on the grounds of the need for continuation of the work that is being done under the currently existing job agreement or if the employer offers a new one.

Transition from a work visa to a residence permit

In the case of a foreign national who wants to stay and work in the Slovak Republic longer than for a limited period, it’s advisable to submit an application for residence, which will differ from a work visa in the validity and range of rights. A residence permit can be granted for up to five years, with subsequent renewal.

Do foreigners have the right to work in Slovakia?

The Republic of Slovakia, being a part of the European Union, offers plenty of opportunities for foreigners to be employed. This process is restricted by severe legal control with the purpose of protecting the rights of workers themselves and the labour market of the country.

Legal framework for the employment of foreigners

Citizens of the European Union are allowed to work in Slovakia, without a work visa or work permit being required. In cases when they have to stay longer, they are only required to apply for registration with the local migration service.

Third-country nationals must obtain an appropriate work permit and a visa, or residence permit entitling them to work. The work permit is granted based on a contract concluded with the employer which has been approved by the local labour authorities.

The conditions for foreign employees

A foreign national may be permitted to work in the Slovak Republic only provided he or she meets certain requirements:

• There is a valid employment contract with an employer registered in Slovakia.
• Professional and qualification requirements that correspond to the position.
• Health insurance and other documents confirming the possibility of covering possible medical expenses.
• Compliance with the registration procedure with the Slovak Migration Service in case of a long stay.

The procedure for obtaining permission to work

The procedure for obtaining permission to work for foreigners includes several successive stages:

Checking the availability of a vacancy through the local labour office for Slovak or EU citizens.

Submitting an application by an employer in writing for a work permit by supplying the documents to the local office of the Ministry of Labour.

Waiting for a decision on whether to issue the permit takes some time, from a few weeks to a few months.

Types of Work Visas in Slovakia

Since Slovakia is a part of the European Union, Slovakia offers work visas for foreign nationals wishing to work or do business in the country. Type of visa varies according to the purpose of visit, the qualifications of the applicant, and the duration of their stay.

Short-term Visa Category C

This type of visa is intended for foreigners who plan to stay in Slovakia for a period of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. A short-term visa is suitable for business trips, participation in conferences or short-term training programs. It does not entitle you to employment, but it is possible to participate in business meetings and negotiations.

Category D visa (national visa)

A category D long-term visa shall be issued for a period of up to one year and is applied to foreigners who intend to work in the Slovak Republic. This visa is intended for aliens with a contract with a Slovak employer. The D visa is also required when applying for a temporary residence permit in Slovakia if the intention is to stay there for a long period.

EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a permit for work and residence, issued to highly qualified third-country nationals. In order to be able to obtain the Blue Card, the candidate must have higher education or professional experience, and a labor offer with a high enough salary, higher than the national average by a certain percent.

Permit for seasonal work

This type of visa is intended for foreign citizens who will be involved in seasonal work in agriculture, tourism, or other sectors that require temporary resources of labor. The seasonal work permit shall be issued for up to six months and, upon its expiration, cannot be extended without leaving the country.

Visa for start-ups and business initiatives

In Slovakia, special programs are developed directed at the attraction of entrepreneurs who want to develop their own business in the country. It is possible to obtain a visa allowing establishment of a company, participation in innovative projects and attracting investments within its framework.

Slovakia work permit requirements

A work permit in Slovakia is a pre-requisite to employ non-European Union foreign nationals. Understanding and adhering to requirements for a work permit are of critical essence to legalising employment within the country.

Application procedure

An application for a work permit should be submitted through the Slovak Consulate or Embassy in your country of residence, or through the Migration Services if you are already in Slovakia on another type of permit. It needs to be taken into consideration that the whole process could take everything from a few weeks up to a few months, depending on the particular circumstances.

Obtaining a work permit in Slovakia requires proper preparation and compliance with a number of procedural requirements. Proper understanding and fulfillment of all requirements ensure employment that is legal and safe in the country, contributing to the successful integration of foreign professionals into both Slovak economy and society.

Work permits in Slovakia

In Slovakia, work permits for foreigners, third-country nationals, are regulated by several legislative acts, among which the most important ones are Act No. 5/2004 Coll. and Act No. 404/2011 Coll. as amended. You may find below the main provisions to be taken into account in connection with filing the application for a work permit.

Legal ground for getting the work permit:

1. European Union Blue Card: This is a permit allowed for highly qualified third-country nationals, enabling them to work and reside in any EU country except Denmark, Ireland, and the UK.
2. Temporary residence permit for employment: It is issued when an employer confirms a vacant position that a local resident cannot fill.
3. Work and temporary residence permit: It is required unless the law provides for an exception in case of third-country nationals.
4. Family reunification permit: It allows family members of a foreign worker to reside and work in Slovakia.
5. Status of a person with long-term residence in another EU Member State: Third-country nationals holding such a status may be granted a work and temporary residence permit in Slovakia.

Exceptions:

• Chief editor or editor or correspondent for a foreign periodical published abroad or a foreign news agency
• Some groups, like highly-skilled workers, do not need to provide evidence of ability to fill a job opening.

Application Process: Applications for work permits are filed through the Centre for Labour, Social Affairs and Family. Comprehensive information about document requirements, how to apply, and time to process applications is available on the official website of the Centre for Labour, Social Affairs and Family of the Slovak Republic.

Additional Recommendations: Instead, it is an obligation to ensure that the documents fully meet the standards imposed by Slovak law. The application shall be submitted with all the personal and professional documents as requested. The foreigner who, at the time of the submission of the application, applies for a work permit shall have a valid travel document and other authorisation documents.

As one of the European Union countries, Slovakia has got numerous open doors to foreign specialists in terms of employment. At the same time, to be able to work legally in Slovakia, foreign nationals have to obtain a work permit.

Types of work permits in Slovakia

Single Permit for residence and work (Single Permit)

One is a single residence and work permit, which is the key document for citizens of countries outside the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland. A single permit represents the right to reside for the purpose of work performance and is issued by local migration authorities.

Target group: Third-country nationals intending to stay in Slovakia for more than three months and intending to work.

• Application process: The application is submitted for both residence and work permits at the same time. Proof from the employer and fulfilment of the requirements of Slovak law are required.

Conditions for granting a work permit

Employer’s declaration

Before being granted a work permit, you usually have to have received a job offer from a Slovak employer. Your prospective employer will have to submit an application with the competent authorities indicating the reasons why a foreign worker needs to be employed.

Recognition of qualifications

Documents on qualifications and work experience, such as diplomas, certificates, and references, shall be attached to the application. All these documents must be translated into the Slovak language and notarized.

Proof of Financial Solvency

Sometimes proof of the applicant’s financial solvency is required, such as bank statements, income documents, or proof of means to live in Slovakia.

Health Insurance

The applicant must be covered by health insurance, valid in the territory of the SR, which will pay all his/her medical costs in Slovakia.

Housing in the Slovak Republic – confirmation of availability

It is necessary to attach documents, confirming the availability of housing in Slovakia, for instance, a lease, or documents of title.

Application process

Preparation of documents

An applicant has to prepare a full package of documents according to the requirements for getting a work permit. It should be mentioned that all the documents should be duly executed and translated.

Application submission

The work permit application in Slovakia must be filed either with the local office of the Office of Migration and Citizenship or via the Slovak Consulate in the client’s country of residence.

Waiting for a decision

The time needed for the application to be processed can take a few weeks up to a few months depending on the type of permit and on the specific case of the candidate.

Licensing authority

If an application is successfully processed, an applicant will be sent a permit that will enable him or her to be legally employed in the Slovak Republic for a determined period of time.

Obtaining a work permit in Slovakia is really complex and requires much preparation in accordance with the law. The success of an application for a work permit must be done in advance through preparation of documents and following the sequence or order of procedure. Professional support from a legal advisor or migration agent will ensure minimum risk of refusal and hasten the process of obtaining a work permit in Slovakia successfully.

Do I need a visa to work in Slovakia?

Working in Slovakia is quite an attractive opportunity for foreign professionals since its economy is stable and it has a very favorable geographical position in the centre of Europe. On the other hand, prior to beginning to work in the Slovak Republic you are expected to understand whether you need a visa to work here and what exactly is required to apply for.

Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area and Switzerland

Employment in Slovakia for EU, EEA and Swiss nationals is relatively straightforward. They are not obligated to apply for a visa or work permit as Slovakia, being an EU country, offers them the principle of free movement and employment in any state of the European Union.

• Registration of residence: EU, EEA and Swiss nationals staying in Slovakia for more than 90 days have an obligation to register with the local authorities at their place of residence. This is merely a formal procedure, not prohibitively complicated.

Non-EU, EEA and Swiss nationals

In fact, foreign nationals from third countries outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland are required to apply for a visa and work permit in order to be legally employed in the country. Depending on one’s length of stay and purpose of visit, there are different visa types:

Short-term visa – Schengen Visa Type C

In case of the period of intended stay in Slovakia being up to 90 days in any 180-day period, foreigners may need a visa-type C for a short stay. This visa in itself, however, does not give any right to employment, and further work permits have to be obtained respectively.

National visa (Visa Type D)

Type D national visa is for a long stay – more than 90 days and entitles the submission of the application for a residence and work permit in the Slovak Republic. This visa is issued for a period of up to one year and, based on the conditions of the labour contract, extended.

Single residence and work permit

The unified residence and work permit is given by bringing these two rights to third-country nationals. To apply for this, one has to first get a job offer in advance from a Slovak employer.

Procedure obtaining visa and work permit

Receiving a job offer

To obtain a work visa, the first step involves a foreign national securing an official job offer from an employer. The employer then forwards an application for a work permit for a foreign employee to the local migration and citizenship authorities.

Preparation and submission of documents

The applicant needs to compile all the required documents including:

• A passport.
• A completed visa application form.
• Employment contract or invitation by the employer
• Proof of financial solvency.
• Health insurance valid in Slovakia.
• Proof of available housing.

The application for a visa and work permit is submitted to the appropriate Slovak Consulate in the country where the applicant resides.

Application procedure

The processing time for a visa and work permit application may vary, depending on the country of application and the type of visa, but it could take from 15 to 90 days. In some cases, further documentation and/or an interview may be required.

Visa granting and arrival to Slovakia

In the event of a positive assessment of the application, the applicant is granted a visa and can be admitted to the territory of the Slovak Republic in order to exercise the specified activity. Upon arrival in the country of residence, registration with local authorities at the place of residence, as well as an application to extend a work permit in case of need or necessity, should be proceeded with accordingly.

Whether or not visa requirements for working in Slovakia depend on the applicant’s nationality and the period he or she intends to stay for. Correspondingly, EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals do not need a visa to work, while third-country nationals are required to obtain a visa and work permit for legal employment. As the granting process is rather complex, careful preparation and precise compliance with all the requirements of the procedure are needed. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with these requirements well in advance, and where appropriate, seek the assistance of professional migration agents and/or legal advisors to assist in ensuring important documents are correctly completed.

Types of work permits in Slovakia

For foreign nationals who intend to work in Slovakia, the process involves obtaining a work permit. Slovakia, as a member of the European Union, provides various types of work permits, usually depending on the length of stay, qualifications, and the purposes of the applicant.

The type of work permit in Slovakia to choose depends on the purpose and period of stay in the country, qualifications, as well as the peculiarities of the applicant’s activities. Each kind of permit has certain special requirements and features, considering which is necessary when preparing the application. Careful preparation of the documents and, after that, following all the legal procedures significantly increases the chances of successful acquisition of the work permit. In case you would like to be sure that everything will go smoothly and the risk of rejection of your application is at a minimum, then professional legal advisors specializing in migration law in Slovakia are here to help you.

EU Blue Card in Slovakia

The EU Blue Card is a specific form of work and residence permit reserved for highly qualified third-country nationals. It opens great perspectives for labor migration and integration to those coming for work to EU countries, Slovakia not being an exception. A Blue Card is an obvious asset to everybody who wants to access the European labor market and benefit from all the advantages offered by the European Union.

Benefits of the EU Blue Card

• Right to work and residence: The EU Blue Card entitles the holder to legal residence and employment in the territory of the Slovak Republic. The card shall be issued for a period of up to four years with the possibility of renewal, which ensures stability and long-term prospects for professional activity.
• Freedom of movement within the EU: Holders of an EU Blue Card can travel freely within the Schengen area, with no need to obtain additional visas. This enhances the appeal of the Blue Card for those professionals whose work requires traveling and traversing across Europe.
• Family reunification: It simplifies the process of family reunification, and family members are also entitled to a residence permit and the right to work in Slovakia for easier integration into society.
• Pathway to permanent residence: After several years of residence spent in Slovakia, an EU Blue Card holder may apply for permanent residence that opens further possibilities and opportunities.

Basic requirements for obtaining an EU Blue Card in Slovakia

High qualification: The application for an EU Blue Card is conditioned by the fact that the applicant has higher education confirmed by a diploma recognized in Slovakia. It can be a higher education diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.

Labor contract: A concluded employment contract with an employer in Slovakia is necessary for at least one year, involving the performance of activities requiring high qualification and guaranteeing remuneration of at least 1.5 times the average annual salary in Slovakia for a similar position.

Language skills (if required): While not always necessary, knowledge of the Slovak language would greatly help the person to carry out the job duties effectively and adjust to working conditions. Applicants are sometimes required by the employers to prove their basic knowledge of the language.

Health insurance: Applicants are expected to hold valid health insurance for their entire period of stay in Slovakia. If family members will join them in the country, they have to do so with a health insurance policy.

Application process for the EU Blue Card

• Document preparation: The applicant has to prepare a full package of documents including:
  • A passport.
  • A completed application form for the EU Blue Card.
  • Labour contract with an employer in Slovakia.
  • Documents confirming qualifications and education, like diplomas, certificates.
  • Proof of financial solvency, which could be bank statements or statements of income.
  • Health insurance valid in Slovakia.
• Submitting an application: The application for an EU Blue Card is submitted either to the local Office for Migration and Citizenship, Oddelenie cudzineckej polície, or via the Slovak consulate in the country of residence of the applicant. One should make an advance appointment and ensure that all documents are correct.
• Application procedure: It will take approximately 30 to 90 days for the application process for the EU Blue Card, within which the migration authorities will verify the authenticity of documents, eligibility, and qualification of the applicant.
• Receiving the Blue Card: When the application is approved, an EU Blue Card is issued to the applicant for a period of up to four years. If the employment contract is shorter than this, it will be issued for the period of the contract plus three months.

Renewal of the Blue Card and obtaining permanent residence

After the EU Blue Card expires, it is renewable together with the extended labour contract, provided that the conditions referred to in paragraph 1 are still fulfilled. The Blue Card holder may apply for permanent residence after five years of continuous residence in Slovakia and thus acquire additional rights and benefits.

The EU Blue Card is an important tool to provide highly qualified professionals with a procedure to come for work and residence in Slovakia. This document already acts as the guarantor of a right to employment, stable residence, and the possibility for long-term integration into the country. Such a Blue Card can be obtained only if the candidate is responsibly prepared to meet all the legal requirements in the process. This will definitely be easier with the help of professional legal advisors who specialize in migration law and can facilitate the application process as much as possible to guarantee the successful obtainment of an EU Blue Card in Slovakia.

Applying for a work visa in Slovakia

A work visa to Slovakia is an essential document for foreigners coming from outside the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland who would like to work in this country. The procedure of getting a work visa needs careful preparation and following of all legal formalities.

Basic steps of obtaining a work visa to Slovakia

Job offer

The very first and most important condition to get a work visa for Slovakia is the official job offer from the Slovak employer. The employer must provide a contract confirming that the vacancy really requires employment of a foreign specialist.

• Labour contract: The contract should include details of designation, work environment, period of work and remuneration. The employer should also confirm that the vacancy cannot be filled by a local candidate.

Work Permit Application

Once selected and receiving the offer letter, the next in line is the work permit. It is a document that permits a foreign national to work legally in Slovakia.

• Application Filing: The employer has to file the respective application for a work permit with the relevant local Office for Migration and Citizenship (Oddelenie cudzineckej polície). The application shall be supported by all documents confirming the qualifications and suitability for the post.
• Required Documents: The applicant shall have to provide a number of documents including:
  • A completed visa application form.
  • A valid passport.
  • Labor contract or official invitation from the employer.
  • Work Permit.
  • Health insurance valid in Slovakia.
  • Proof of financial solvency – bank statements, income certificates.
  • Proof of housing in Slovakia – rental agreement or ownership documents.
  • A certificate of no criminal record from the country of permanent residence.
• How to apply?: All documents shall be duly executed and, if necessary, translated into the Slovak language and notarized. The application shall be filed in person at the relevant embassy or consulate of the Slovak Republic. An application for a residence permit shall be filed in advance.

Depending on the case and consulate workload, the application process may take 15 to 90 days. In this time, consular services check all the documents presented, and if necessary, ask for more or interview an applicant.

Obtaining a visa and arrival to Slovakia

After the application gets approved, an applicant gets a work visa which allows him/her to enter Slovakia and commence work. Upon in-country arrival he/she has to register with the local authorities at the place of residence and obtain residence permit if the employment contract is signed for more than 90 days.

Additional Recommendations for Smooth Proceeding with Work Visa

• Get your documents ready well in advance: Make sure all papers are collected and completed as necessary, so that no delay occurs in reviewing the document processing.
• Consult lawyers: Take advice from professional lawyers or migration agents who can guide you correctly through paperwork and applications.
• Meeting deadlines: It is important to apply for a visa as early as possible, especially if you are scheduled to start work on a specific date.

The process of obtaining a work visa to Slovakia requires careful preparation and compliance with all procedural requirements. The main steps are obtaining a job offer, applying for a work permit and applying for a visa. Careful preparation of the documents and observance of all legal formalities manifold increase the chances of successful obtaining a work visa. In order to exclude all the risks and accelerate this process, it is recommended to seek professional assistance from migration consultants or law firms that specialize in migration law.

What documents does one need to obtain a work permit in Slovakia?

Obtaining a work permit is obligatory for foreign nationals from outside the European Union, European Economic Area and Switzerland. This procedure requires serious preparation of documents, to be submitted to the local migration authorities.

Basic package of documents for obtaining a work permit

Additional documents (if required)

• Family status documents: In case of the applicant’s intention to move with his/her family, then a marriage certificate, birth certificates of children and other documents confirming family status may be required.
• Employer’s declaration: In some cases, a declaration from the employer may be required to confirm that the applicant will receive the necessary training or mentoring in the workplace.

Application procedure

Document preparation

Before an application is submitted, all the documents have to be collected and correctly executed. All the translations necessary need to be notarised and copies of the documents to be authenticated.

Submission of an application

The application, along with all the supporting documents, needs to be filed with the relevant local Office for Migration and Citizenship in Slovakia, or if the applicant is staying abroad, through the relevant Slovak Consulate in that country. An appointment should be made in advance, and the instructions given by the migration authorities need to be followed.

Procedure to be followed

The time of processing can vary, but usually it takes anything between 30 to 90 days. During that time, the relevant documents are checked by migration authorities, and if needed, additional information is requested.

Work permit

Consecutively, in the event of successful processing of the application, the applicant is granted a work permit allowing him/her to legally employ themselves in the territory of the Slovak Republic. In such a case, a permit can be granted either for the period corresponding to the duration of the employment contract or for a shorter period, considering the specific situation.

Obtaining a work permit in the Slovak Republic is a pretty complicated multistep process, which requires thorough preparation and complete adherence to legal requirements. All the documents required for the application should be prepared well in advance to avoid any possibilities of delay or denial of the permit. Professional assistance by authorized legal advisers or migration agents may facilitate this process and make it far more probable to obtain a work permit in Slovakia with success.

Slovakia work visa processing time

Employment of foreigners from non-EU, EEA and Swiss countries in Slovakia is governed by Act No. 5/2004 Coll. on Employment Services. Following are the key issues to be observed by both employers and foreign employees:

Processing time

The procedure of obtaining a work visa to Slovakia is a crucial step for a foreigner who intends to be employed in this country. Among the key issues arising for applicants, the length of time considered necessary to process their application plays a significant role.

Main factors that may influence the period in which a work visa is processed

• Type of work visa: It is possible that the period required for the processing of an application for a work visa depends on the type of visa that a person has applied for.
• Completeness and correctness of the documents submitted: One of the most important factors that influence the processing time of a visa is the completeness and correctness of the submitted documents.
• Workload of the consulate or migration authorities: Processing times can vary based on the workload of the receiving Consulate or Migration Authorities.
• Carrying out Additional Inspections: Other verifications sometimes needed by the migration authorities include document authentication or verification of qualifications of the applicant.

The national visa type D, usually issued for long-term stay and employment in Slovakia, is typically processed within 30-60 days. Depending on the circumstances and workload of the consulate, it can be up to 90 days.

Short-term work visa

These usually include short-term work visas, such as seasonal work permits, which have a much shorter processing time: usually 15-30 days but can be up to 60 days in some cases.

Recommendations to speed up the process of obtaining a work visa

Advance preparation of documents: Prepare all the necessary documents in advance, ensuring their execution and translation to the Slovak language if needed.

Making an advanced appointment with the consulate: To the extent that the application is made through the consulate, it is recommended during busy periods to make an advanced appointment to minimize time wasted in queues.

Using professional consultants: The application process will be much faster and smoother if you apply to a professional migration counsellor or legal agent.

Low season application: If possible, try to lodge an application at times when migration services are not experiencing their peak workload to minimize waiting times.

Slovakia work visa requirements

Work permit application procedure for third-country nationals is multi-step in Slovakia. Considering all relevant steps, below is the outline that provides an overview of a foreign citizen’s steps:

This process reflects the ambition of Slovakia to regularize the employment of foreigners with the aim of compliance with the rules of the domestic labour market and protection of workers’ rights.

General conditions for obtaining a work visa to Slovakia

Labour contract

The main pre-condition for issuing a work visa to the Slovak Republic is to provide a valid employment contract or binding job offer on the part of a Slovak employer. This employment contract must include the following information:

Position: Complete description of the post on which the foreign employee is employed.

Working Conditions: Include tasks, working hours, and other conditions of work.

Duration of the contract: The length of the employment contract must be stated, which depends on the visa to be granted.

Salary: Indicate the remuneration, which must correspond to the level set by the Slovak law.

Work permit

All foreigners coming from outside the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland need a work permit. This permit testifies to the right of the foreigner to work on the territory of Slovakia and is issued by the competent local Office for Migration and Citizenship.

• Role of the employer: The employer has to apply for the foreign employee’s work permit. The residence permit is sometimes issued together with the work permit.

Evidence of qualification

The applicant has to present documents that confirm his/her qualifications and professional experience. These could be:

• Diplomas and certificates: Educational documents confirming that the qualifications correspond to the requirements of the position.
• References: Letters of recommendation from previous employers, confirming work experience and professional skills.
• Translations and certifications: All documents must be translated into Slovak and notarised.

Financial solvency

The applicant must prove sufficient financial means to reside in Slovakia for the entire period of validity of the visa. This can be confirmed by the following documents:

• Bank statements: Confirming the availability of funds in the account.
• Income certificates: In case the applicant is getting his or her income from other sources.
• Employer Guarantees: A letter from the employer regarding the financial sponsorship for the applicant during his or her stay.

Health insurance

For an application of a work visa, a candidate has to have valid health insurance that covers all the medical expenses in Slovakia. The insurance document has to be presented for the whole period of the stay required; the minimum coverage shall be according to Slovak law.

Presentation of a confirmation of housing availability

The applicant has to provide documents proving that accommodation is available in the Slovak Republic. It could be:

• Tenancy Agreement: Confirmation of the availability of rented accommodation.
• Title documents: In case the applicant has property in the Slovak Republic.
• Letter of Guarantee from the employer: In the case of provision of accommodation by the employer.

Certificate of absence of criminal record

For the purpose of granting a work visa, it may be required that the applicant obtain a certificate of criminal record from his/her country of permanent residence. Such document shall be translated into the Slovak language and notarised.

Procedure for applying for a work visa

Collection and preparation of documents

Before filing the application, it will be necessary to collect and prepare a complete set of documents that correspond to the requirements. It will be very important that all documents be duly executed and certified.

Filing the Application

The application to obtain a work visa is filed with the relevant Slovak Consulate or Embassy where the applicant resides. An appointment should be made in advance, and the application filed with all supporting documents.

Application consideration

The time of application consideration may vary, but it usually takes 30 – 90 days. During this time, the consular service verifies the authenticity of documents and eligibility of the applicant to obtain the type of visa applied for.

Receiving visa and entry to Slovakia

In the case of approval, a visa is granted, enabling the applicant to enter Slovakia and start working. Upon arrival, one needs to register with the local authorities at the residence place and, when necessary, apply for a residence permit.

Thus, obtaining a work visa in Slovakia requires serious preparation and consideration of all the demands that have been set. The main documents, which are requested for getting a visa, are: an employment contract, work permit, proof of qualification, financial solvency, and health insurance. The advice is to get ready with all the documentation in advance and, in case of need, seek the advice of professional lawyers who would help avoid mistakes and accelerate the process of a visa provision at all stages.

How can Regulated United Europe help you with work permits in Slovakia?

Obtaining a work permit in the Slovak Republic is a complex process that requires serious preliminary preparation of the documents and fulfillment of all legal requirements. Taking into consideration foreign nationals who have not been residents of the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland, this process may be the most complicated. The law firm Regulated United Europe has been providing comprehensive services for support and processing work permits in the territory of the Slovak Republic, ensuring successful completion of all the stages of such a procedure.

The law firm Regulated United Europe offers extensive services for obtaining a work permit in Slovakia. We provide full support at every stage, starting from consulting on the preparation of documents, job search, and sending a CV to a potential employer. With our experts, you will avoid mistakes and minimize the risks of refusals, and with success, you will pass all stages of the procedure for obtaining a work permit in Slovakia. Contacting us is a guarantee of professional support and confidence in the successful completion of the procedure.