Who Needs a Work Permit in Slovakia
In Slovakia, non-EU/EEA nationals typically require a work permit to engage in employment. This requirement applies to individuals hired by Slovak employers as well as foreign nationals assigned to Slovakia by international companies. However, exemptions exist, such as for family members of EU/EEA citizens or those holding long-term residence permits in other EU countries.
Types of Work Visas in Slovakia
Slovakia offers various work visas tailored to different employment scenarios. Below is an overview of the primary visa types available:
Visa Type | Description |
Single Permit (Combined Work and Residence Permit) | Allows non-EU nationals to reside and work in Slovakia; requires a job offer and labor market test. |
EU Blue Card | Designed for highly skilled workers with a higher education degree and a binding job offer; offers mobility within the EU. |
Intra-Company Transfer Permit | For employees of multinational companies transferring to a Slovak branch; applicable to managers, specialists, or trainees. |
Seasonal Employment Permit | For temporary work in sectors like agriculture or tourism, typically valid for up to six months. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Slovakia
When hiring talent in Slovakia, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Slovakia. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (within 20 working days), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Slovakia.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Slovakia
Independent professionals in Slovakia can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in South Sudanese Pound (SSP) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Slovakia.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Slovakia
Transferring an existing team member to Slovakia? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Africa, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements for a Work Permit in Slovakia
To obtain a work permit in Slovakia, employers and prospective employees must meet specific criteria. The process generally involves demonstrating that the position cannot be filled by a local candidate and ensuring the foreign worker possesses the necessary qualifications.
- Valid Passport: The employee must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
- Employment Contract or Job Offer: A signed contract or official job offer from a Slovak employer is mandatory.
- Proof of Qualifications: Documents verifying the employee's education and professional experience, translated into Slovak and officially authenticated.
- Labor Market Test Results: Evidence that the employer has advertised the position locally and was unable to find a suitable candidate within Slovakia or the EU.
- Health Insurance Coverage: Proof of valid health insurance for the duration of the stay in Slovakia.
- Accommodation Proof: Documentation confirming the employee has secured accommodation in Slovakia.
Slovakia Work Permit Application Process
- Job Advertisement: The employer must report the vacancy to the Slovak Labour Office and advertise the position for at least 10 working days to ensure no suitable local candidate is available.
- Application Submission: After the labor market test, the employer or employee submits the work permit application to the competent Labour Office, including all required documents.
- Labor Office Decision: The Labour Office reviews the application and issues a decision, typically within 20 working days.
- Residence Permit Application: Upon receiving the work permit, the employee applies for a temporary residence permit for employment purposes at the Slovak embassy or consulate in their home country.
- Entry and Registration: Once the residence permit is granted, the employee can enter Slovakia and must register with the local Foreign Police Department within three days of arrival.
Process for Visa Sponsorship in Slovakia
Employers in Slovakia play a pivotal role in sponsoring work visas for foreign employees. The process begins with obtaining approval from the Slovak Labour Office, demonstrating that the position cannot be filled by a local candidate. Subsequently, the employer provides the foreign worker with a job offer or employment contract, which is essential for the employee's residence permit application. Employers must also ensure compliance with all legal requirements, including reporting the commencement of employment to the Labour Office.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Slovakia
Applying for work permits and visas in Slovakia involves certain fees, which may vary depending on the type of permit and the applicant's circumstances.
Visa Type | Application Fee |
Single Permit (Residence and Work Permit) | €165.50 (Foreign Police Department); €170 (Slovak embassy) |
EU Blue Card | €165.50 (Foreign Police Department); €170 (Slovak embassy) |
Work Permit | Free of charge |
Temporary Residence Permit | €4.50 for issuance of the residence document |
Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Slovakia
The processing time for work permits and visas in Slovakia varies depending on the type of permit and individual circumstances. Generally, work permit applications are processed within 20 working days. Temporary residence permit applications may take up to 90 days.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Slovakia
Work permits in Slovakia are typically issued for a maximum of two years and can be renewed repeatedly, each time for up to two years. To renew a work permit, the application must be submitted no earlier than 90 days and no later than 30 days before the current permit expires. It is essential that the employee continues to work with the same employer and in the same position.
Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Slovakia
As of now, Slovakia does not have a specific visa category tailored for digital nomads. Digital nomads intending to reside in Slovakia typically need to apply for a standard residence permit, which may require demonstrating employment with a Slovak company or other valid reasons for residence.
- Proof of Employment or Purpose: Applicants must provide evidence of employment or a legitimate purpose for residing in Slovakia.
- Financial Means: Applicants need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage is mandatory for the duration of the stay.
- Accommodation: Proof of accommodation in Slovakia is required.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Slovakia
Employing foreign nationals in Slovakia can present several challenges. Being aware of these and adopting best practices can facilitate a smoother hiring process.
- Complex Administrative Procedures: Navigating the bureaucratic processes for obtaining work permits and residence visas can be time-consuming and intricate.
- Labor Market Test Requirements: Employers may need to demonstrate that no suitable local candidates are available, which can delay the hiring process.
- Document Authentication: Foreign documents often require official translation and authentication, adding to the preparation time.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring adherence to Slovak labor laws and immigration regulations is crucial to avoid legal complications.