Slovakia, situated in Central Europe, is a member of the European Union and the Schengen States, boasting a population of approximately 5.4 million. For individuals seeking employment within its borders, obtaining a Work Permit and a National Visa is imperative. This article aims to elucidate the process of securing a Slovakia Work Visa, delineating the various types of visas available and the specific prerequisites applicable to non-European nationals.
Officially known as the Slovak Republic, Slovakia shares its borders with Poland to the north, Ukraine to the east, Hungary to the south, Austria to the west, and the Czech Republic to the northwest. The capital city is Bratislava, and the country utilizes the Euro as its currency. As of May 2024, research indicates that the average gross monthly salary in Slovakia stands at €1,403.
It’s essential to note that European nationals are exempt from the requirement of obtaining a Slovakia work visa. However, for non-European nationals desiring to work in Slovakia, adhering to the visa application process is mandatory. This process entails securing a job offer and a valid work permit before commencing employment in the country.
read more: Austria Work VISA 2024 Application Process and Requirements
Do You Need a Visa to Work in Slovakia?
- Yes You Need: If you are a Non-European National
- You Do Not Need: If you are a European National
Types of Slovakia Work Permits
There are several types of work visas to apply, but it depends on your work or type of employment. types of permits are:
1) Slovakia Single Permit
The most common type of work permit is a single work permit that is issued to foreign nationals who want to work in Slovakia as employed workers. For a single permit, you don’t need to apply for a work permit to be able to work in the country.
Your future employer in Slovakia must report a Job vacancy to the Labour Office 20 days before applying for a single permit (temporary residence for employment).
2) Work Permit
The work permit is required in specific cases. So, it depends on the type of employment and situation. For example, you will need a work permit if you have obtained a Temporary residence for employment based on family reunification and you want to work during the first 12 months of entering the country.
Your future employer in Slovakia must report a Job vacancy to the Labour Office 10 days before applying for a permit.
3) Temporary residence for employment based on a work permit
In some cases, once a work permit has been issued, you must apply for temporary residence for employment at the Slovak embassy located in your country.
4) Seasonal Employment
This work permit is issued to foreign nationals based on seasonal Jobs such as agriculture Jobs, and tourism jobs. It involves activities that do not exceed 180 days in a year.
5) EU Blue Card
If you are Highly qualified and have some exceptional talent, achievement qualifications, and good work experience, you can apply for the EU Blue Card.
Required Documents
For Single Work Permit:
- Application form.
- An employment contract or written promise of employment.
- Documents regarding your education.
- Written power of attorney.
For Work Permit:
- A completed application form in Slovak.
- A valid passport.
- An employment contract.
- A copy of your residence document (if applicable).
- Other documents are required from the Labor Office.
For Seasonal Employment:
- Application form.
- Proof of having completed education.
- Proof of accommodation for the duration of the employment.
Slovakia Work Visa Fee
- Single Permit Fee: 170 EUR
- Work Permit Fee: 170 EUR
- Blue Card: 170 EUR
- Seasonal Employment: 35 EUR
Duration of a Work Permit
Your work permit is valid for the duration of your employment contract or a maximum of two years with a possibility of renewal.
Duration of a National Visa
The National Visa is granted to the applicants if they are staying for more than 180 days. This Visa allows applicants to Travel. The national visa may be issued with a maximum validity of 1 year.
How You can apply for a Slovakia work visa?
- Apply for the Job: Online through Job sites, recruitment agencies, or recognized employers.
- Once you have a Job offer, your employer can apply for the appropriate work permit on your behalf or they will guide you. So, verify this with your employer in Slovakia, and contact an embassy or consulate for more information.
- Prepare your documents.
- Pay the visa fee
- Apply for the National Visa. From here you can download the Visa application forms.
- Submit your application: Submit the complete application to the Slovakian Embassy. Here is a List of all Slovak Embassies with the contact information.
Helpful Links
- Embassies of Slovak Around the World
- Information on National Visa
- Visa Application Forms
- EU Immigration Portal
Conclusion: A general guideline for non-Europeans who want to work in Slovakia and looking for the Visa process. It is advised that please always Visit the Slovak Embassies for accurate information. because the Visa process changes very quickly and each country might have some different requirements.
