Work Permit in Slovakia

Slovakia, with its stable economy and favourable business environment, attracts many foreign specialists. In order to be legally employed in Slovakia, foreign nationals need to obtain a work permit. In this article we will look at the main aspects related to obtaining this permit and the key requirements that need to be fulfilled.

Main categories of work permits

1. Employment Permit for Specialists (Employment Permit for Specialists)
   • It is intended for highly qualified workers whose skills and knowledge are in demand on the Slovak labour market.
   • The need for proof of qualifications and professional experience.
2. Seasonal Work Permit (Seasonal Work Permit)
   • Issued for temporary or seasonal work such as agriculture and tourism.
   • Limited duration, usually up to six months.
3. Intra-corporate Transferee Permit (Intra-corporate Transferee Permit)
   • It is intended for employees of international companies who are transferred to Slovak branches to fulfil certain tasks.
   • Requires proof of intra-company transfer and employment contract.

Basic requirements for documents

In order to obtain a work permit in Slovakia, the following documents must be submitted:

1. Foreign passport
   • Must be valid for at least six months after the end of the intended period of stay.
2. Completed questionnaire
   • Work permit application form, which can be downloaded from the official website of the Slovak Ministry of the Interior or filled out through the consulate.
3. Labour contract
   • Original and a copy of the contract with the Slovak employer, including working conditions, position, salary and contract duration.
   • The contract must be signed by both parties.
4. Evidence of qualification
   • Diplomas, certificates and other documents confirming your professional qualifications and work experience.
   • All documents must be translated into Slovak or English and notarised.
5. Health insurance
   • A health insurance policy covering the entire period of your intended stay in Slovakia.
   • The sum insured must meet the minimum requirements set by Slovak law.
6. Criminal record certificate
   • A document from the country of permanent residence confirming the absence of a criminal record.
   • The certificate must be translated into Slovak or English and notarised.
7. Evidence of financial solvency
   • Bank statements or other documents proving that you have sufficient funds to live in Slovakia for the entire period of your stay.
   • Proof of funds corresponding to the minimum monthly salary in Slovakia is usually required.

Application procedure

1. Collection of all necessary documents
   • Make sure all documents are gathered and properly filed.
2. Submitting an application
   • The application can be submitted through the Slovak consulate or embassy in your country, as well as through Slovak migration services.
   • It is important to complete the work permit application form without mistakes or corrections.
3. Consideration of application
   • The application process can take from several weeks to several months depending on the workload of the migration services and the complexity of your case.
   • Additional documents or clarifications may be required if necessary.

Renewal of work permit

In order to renew a work permit, an application must be submitted a few months before the end of the current permit, providing updated documents proving the continuation of the employment relationship and the availability of funds for living expenses. 

What is the Slovakia work visa?

A work visa to Slovakia is a key element for non-European Union citizens wishing to work in the country. Slovakia, as a member of the European Union, offers a variety of opportunities for international professionals and investors, which makes obtaining a work visa an important aspect of migration policy.

Main types of work visas

1. Category D visa – National visa that allows you to stay in Slovakia for more than 90 days. To obtain this visa it is necessary to provide documents proving employment or investment activity in Slovakia.
2. EU Blue Card – For highly qualified professionals. This document combines work and residence permits, simplifying migration procedures for in-demand professions.

Requirements for obtaining a work visa

In order to apply for a work visa to Slovakia, the candidate must fulfil the following conditions:

• Employment contract with an employer in Slovakia, which must be registered with the local office of the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family.
• Proof of qualifications in the form of diplomas and certificates, and a CV detailing professional experience.
• Medical insurance for the whole period of stay.
• Proof of financial solvency to cover living expenses.

The process of applying for a work visa

1. Submission of the application. The visa application is submitted in person at the Slovak consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country of residence.
2. Interview. After reviewing the documents, the applicant is invited for an interview where he/she may be asked questions about the purpose of the visit, working conditions and future plans.
3. Waiting for a decision. Application processing times can vary, but typically range from a few weeks to a few months.

Conclusion

Obtaining a work visa to Slovakia is a complex process that requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Professional preparation of documents and correct understanding of Slovak legislation will significantly simplify the process of obtaining a visa and subsequent adaptation in the country.

How to apply for the Slovakia work visa in 2024?

Obtaining a work visa to Slovakia requires careful preparation and strict adherence to local legislation. In 2024, the process of applying for a work visa remains structured and requires attention to every step of the application process.

Step 1: Confirming the job offer

The first and most important step is to obtain an official job offer from an employer in Slovakia. This offer must be approved by the Slovak Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family, which confirms the need for foreign labour.

Step 2: Gathering the necessary documents

To apply for a category D visa, you need to prepare the following package of documents:

• Completed visa application form.
• A valid passport.
• Photographs that meet the requirements of the embassy.
• Documentary proof of sufficient financial means for living in Slovakia.
• Certificate of no criminal record.
• Medical insurance for the whole period of stay.
• An employment contract approved by the Ministry of Labour.

Step 3: Submission of documents

Visa documents are submitted in person at the consular section of the Slovak Embassy or Consulate in your country. In some cases it is possible to apply through an accredited visa agency.

Step 4: Getting an interview

After preliminary document verification, applicants are scheduled for an interview. During the interview, the consular officer will assess the applicant’s compliance with the visa requirements and his/her intentions in Slovakia.

Step 5: Waiting for a decision

The processing time of a work visa application may vary, but it usually takes between 1 and 3 months. During this time the applicant cannot enter Slovakia.

How can I get a Slovakian work visa and permit?

In order to work legally in Slovakia, foreign nationals must obtain both a work visa and a work permit. This process may seem complicated, but with the right approach and preparation it becomes quite feasible.

Step 1: Confirming the job offer

The first step in the process is to receive a job offer from a Slovak employer. The employer must prove that the search for local candidates has not been successful, which requires posting a vacancy in the local labour office for at least 30 days.

Step 2: Obtaining a work permit

Once the job offer has been confirmed, the next step is to apply for a work permit. This is done through the Slovak Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family. The documents required to obtain a permit include:

• Statement from the employer.
• Documents confirming the qualifications of the employee.
• Certificate of no criminal record.
• Medical certificate.

Step 3: Apply for a national D visa

After obtaining a work permit, it is possible to apply for a national visa category D, which allows entry and stay in Slovakia for more than 90 days. To do this, you need to apply to a Slovak consulate or embassy. The list of required documents includes:

• A completed visa application form.
• A valid passport.
• Eligible Photos.
• Confirmation of work authorisation.
• Proof of sufficient means to live.
• Medical insurance for the whole period of stay.

Step 4: Entry into Slovakia and registration

After obtaining a visa, it is possible to enter Slovakia. Within three working days after arrival, it is necessary to register at the local police station and confirm the place of residence.

What documents do I need for Slovakia work visa application?

A successful application for a work visa to Slovakia will require a set of documents that must prove the applicant’s right to work and reside in the country. The following list of documents is relevant for the year 2024 and can serve as a basis for preparation for the visa application process.

Basic documents

1. Passport – valid for at least 3 months after the expected visa expiry date.
2. A completed visa application form is an official document that must be filled out carefully and accurately, following the instructions.
3. Photos – usually 2 photos that meet visa photo standards (size, background, facial expression) are required.

Additional documents

1. Documentary proof of employment – a contract or a letter from a Slovak employer approved by the Slovak Ministry of Labour.
2. Proof of qualifications – diplomas, certificates and other documents confirming professional skills and education.
3. Criminal record certificate – not older than 90 days at the time of application.
4. Health insurance – covering the whole period of stay in Slovakia.

Financial and supporting documents

1. Proof of sufficient funds – bank statements or documents proving the availability of funds for living in Slovakia.
2. Accommodation reservation – a document proving the availability of accommodation in Slovakia (rental contract, letter from an employer about the provision of accommodation, etc.).

Procedural aspects

1. Proof of payment of the consular fee – a receipt of payment of the fee required for the examination of documents.
2. 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 Slovakia is an important step for foreign nationals seeking to work in the country. This article discusses the key aspects of applying for a work visa: the optimal time to apply and the relevant institutions.

Where to apply for a work visa

To begin the process, it is necessary to decide exactly where the application will be filed. The options are as follows:

1. Slovak embassy or consulate. Applications for a work visa are accepted at Slovak diplomatic missions abroad. This is the main and most common option for submitting an application.
2. 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.

When to apply for a work visa

The timing of your application is critical in planning your move and starting work in Slovakia:

1. Early filing. It is recommended that you apply 3-4 months before your expected start date. This is because the review process can take several weeks to several months.
2. Seasonal fluctuations. At certain times of the year, such as the summer months or the eve of major holidays, the consular services are busier, which may result in longer processing times.

Preparing to submit an application

Before applying for a visa, it is important to make sure that you have all the required documents. Check the current list of required documents on the embassy’s website or at the visa application centre, as it may change. It is also worth checking in advance for possible dates to make an appointment for an interview if this is required by procedure.

For how long is the Slovakia work visa valid?

A work visa to Slovakia opens up employment opportunities for foreign professionals in this country. Understanding the validity of a work visa is a key aspect of planning for long-term employment and residence in Slovakia.

Main types of work visas and their validity periods

1. Short-term visa (type C) – intended for temporary travel, including business visits or short-term labour activity up to 90 days. This visa is not renewable in Slovakia.
2. Long-term visa (type D) – is granted for a period of up to one year and can be extended on the basis of proof of continued employment. This visa is required for those who plan to work in Slovakia for longer than three months.

The process of extending a work visa

The extension of a work visa in Slovakia requires the submission of the relevant documents several months before the expiry of the current visa. It is important to note that visa extension is possible only if there are grounds to continue working under the current employment contract or if there is a new offer from the employer.

Transition from a work visa to a residence permit

For foreign nationals who plan to stay and work in Slovakia for a longer period of time, it may be advisable to apply for a residence permit, which differs from a work visa in that it has a longer validity period and additional rights. A residence permit can be issued for a period of up to five years with the possibility of subsequent renewal.

Are foreigners allowed to work in Slovakia?

The Republic of Slovakia, as a member of the European Union, provides various employment opportunities for foreign nationals. However, this process is governed by strict legal regulations, which aim to protect the rights of both the workers themselves and the country’s labour market.

Legal framework for the employment of foreigners

1. Citizens of the European Union have the right to work in Slovakia without the need for a work visa or work permit. For longer stays, they only need to register with the local migration service.
2. Third-country nationals must obtain an appropriate work permit and a visa or residence permit that allows them to work. The work permit is issued on the basis of a contract with the employer that has been approved by the local labour authorities.

Requirements for foreign workers

In order for a foreign national to be allowed to work in Slovakia, he or she must fulfil a number of requirements:

• Existence of a valid employment contract with an employer registered in Slovakia.
• Professional and qualification requirements appropriate 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 process of obtaining a work permit

The process of obtaining a work permit for foreigners involves several steps:

1. Checking the availability of vacancies for Slovak or EU citizens, which is done through the local labour office.
2. Filing for a work permit through the employer, who must submit the necessary documents to the local office of the Ministry of Labour.
3. Waiting for a decision to issue a permit, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

The types of work visas in Slovakia

Slovakia, as a member of the European Union, offers various types of work visas for foreign nationals wishing to work or do business in the country. The choice of the appropriate type of visa depends on the purpose of the visit, the qualifications of the applicant and the length of stay.

1. Category C visa (short-term visa)

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

2. Category D visa (national visa)

Long-term visa category D is granted for up to one year and is required for foreigners planning to work in Slovakia. This visa is suitable for persons who have a work contract with a Slovak employer. The D visa is also required to apply for a temporary residence permit in Slovakia if a long-term stay is intended.

3. EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit intended for highly qualified professionals from non-EU countries. In order to obtain the Blue Card, the candidate must have higher education or professional experience and a labour offer with a sufficiently high salary exceeding the national average by a certain percentage.

4. Permit for seasonal work

This type of visa is intended for foreign nationals who will perform seasonal work in agriculture, tourism or other industries where temporary labour resources are required. The seasonal work permit is issued for a period of up to six months and cannot be extended without leaving the country.

5. Visa for start-ups and business initiatives

Slovakia offers special programmes to attract entrepreneurs willing to develop their business in the country. For this purpose, it is possible to obtain a visa that allows you to establish a company, participate in innovative projects and attract investments.

Slovakia work permit requirements

A work permit in Slovakia is a prerequisite for employment of non-European Union foreign nationals. Understanding and complying with work permit requirements is critical to legalising employment in the country.

Basic requirements

1. Availability of a labour contract or a job offer. To start the process, it is necessary to have a concluded contract with an employer in Slovakia. The contract must comply with Slovak law and contain information about the working conditions, salary and duration of the contract.
2. Proof of qualifications and experience. Applicants will need to provide diplomas, certificates and letters of recommendation to prove their qualifications and experience in the speciality for which they are applying.
3. Labour market check. The employer must prove that the vacancy has been open to Slovak and other EU citizens for at least 30 days before offering the job to the foreigner. This confirms that no suitable candidate was found on the local labour market.

Additional documents

1. Health insurance. It is necessary to provide proof of health insurance covering the entire period of stay and work in Slovakia.
2. Certificate of no criminal record. This document must be provided from the country of permanent residence and from any other countries where the applicant has lived for more than 6 months in the last 3 years.
3. Proof of financial stability. Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your initial stay in the country is required.

Application procedure

The application for a work permit is submitted through the Slovak consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country of residence or through the migration services in Slovakia if the applicant is already in the country on another type of permit. It is important to bear in mind that the whole process may take from several weeks to several months, depending on the specific circumstances.

Conclusion

Obtaining a work permit in Slovakia requires careful preparation and compliance with a number of procedural requirements. Proper understanding and fulfilment of all requirements ensures legal and safe employment in the country, which contributes to the successful integration of foreign professionals into the Slovak economy and society.