The Slovakia work visa can be challenging to obtain. So far, the most accessible visa options available are for digital nomads and tourists, but not necessarily for obtaining a work visa.
If you are a non-EU citizen seeking to work in Slovakia, you must submit an application for a work visa. Slovakia offers various job opportunities tailored to different professions based on your intended length of stay. Keep in mind that citizens of the EU or EEA do not require a work visa to work in Slovakia.
Who Needs Slovakia Work Visa
You will need a Slovakia work visa if:
- You have secured employment in Slovakia as a non-EU/EEA citizen.
- You plan to stay and work in Slovakia for more than 90 days, even if you are from a country that has a visa agreement with Slovakia.
EU/EEA nationals do not need a visa to work in Slovakia; however, they must register their residence after establishing themselves there, usually within three months.
Types of Slovakia Work Visa
These are the categories of work visas available in Slovakia.
1. Slovakia Single Permit
This is one of the most favored work visa categories for foreigners looking for employment in Slovakia, allowing you to work in the country without requiring a separate work permit.
However, your prospective employer must confirm the necessity of filling a vacancy before this visa is approved. They are required to notify the Labour Office about a job opening 20 days prior to applying for a single permit (temporary residence for employment).
2. Work Permit
In specific circumstances, a work visa is granted in Slovakia. The approval will depend on your job position and nature of work. For example, if you want to work for the first year after entering Slovakia on a temporary residence visa due to family reunification, you’ll need this permit. Your employer must notify the Labour Office about the employment vacancy at least 10 days beforehand.
3. Seasonal Employment
This short-term work permit applies when job activities last no longer than 180 days within a calendar year. Different regulations are applicable for citizens of third countries based on whether a Schengen visa is required for entry into Slovakia.
4. European Union Blue Card
These temporary residence permits are issued to highly qualified third-country nationals who meet specific criteria for employment in Slovakia. Holders have the right to enter, reside, and work in Slovakia.
Requirements For Slovakia Work Visa
To obtain a visa for working in Slovakia, you will need to meet the following documentation requirements, categorized as per the visa type.
1. Single Permit
- Visa Application Form
- Written job guarantee or employment contract.
- Records of your education.
- A power of attorney in writing.
2. Work Permit
- A signed application in Slovak.
- An active passport
- Employment agreement.
- A copy of your identification card (if applicable).
- Additional paperwork from the Labour Office.
3. EU Blue Card Permit
- Official application form.
A valid passport - Two passport-sized photos (3 x 3.5 cm, white background).
- Employment agreement.
- Proof of your educational qualifications.
- Clear criminal record.
- Proof of accommodation.
4. Seasonal Employment
- Complete Application Form
- Proof of completed education.
- Proof of accommodations related to work.
Guidelines For Documentation
All applications and documents must be provided in Slovak. Every official document needs to be translated into Slovak and stamped by a certified translator. An official Czech translation can also be submitted if authenticated by the Slovak embassy in the translation country.
Documents issued outside Slovakia must be legalized or validated with an apostille stamp, which applies to the following:
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Death certificate
- Powers of attorney
- University diplomas
- Business registration
- Court orders
How To Apply For Slovakia Work Visa
Here are the essential steps to make a successful application.
1. Know the type of visa you want
Begin by identifying the specific type of work visa you plan to apply for. Various work visas exist, and for some, applying for a work permit may be an additional requirement. Confirm this with your employer in Slovakia and gather more information by contacting an embassy or consulate.
2. Get All Your Documents Ready
Next, based on the type of visa you’re applying for, prepare various documents needed for your work visa application.
3. Pay Visa Fee
Before the evaluation of your application, you must pay the visa fee. Additionally, upon visiting the embassy or consulate, you may need to settle any administrative fees.
4. Submit Your Application
Finally, submit your application at the designated office in your home country on the day of your visa interview. If you already hold a residency permit in Slovakia or belong to a nation with a visa facilitation agreement with Slovakia, you may apply for your work visa at a Foreign Police Department in Slovakia.
Slovakia Work Visa Processing Time
The processing timeframe for your work visa application can range from three to six months or beyond, depending on the workload of the embassy. Regardless of the duration, you will receive notification once the embassy or consulate has made a decision on your application.
Note that it is mandatory to present proof of health insurance for each of these applications. Moreover, the embassy or labor office may request further documents if deemed necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Slovakia with a work visa?
You can stay for one year and potentially extend it until you obtain a residence permit.
How much is Slovakia work visa?
The fee varies based on the type of visa, typically ranging between €35 and €170.
Is Slovakia’s cost of living low?
Yes, you can acquire an apartment in Slovakia for around €350.
Conclusion
Slovakia is an attractive destination for those looking to live, study, or work.
At ilovesov, we will continually update you on the latest news regarding visa applications.
If you have any questions about the Slovakia work visa, please feel free to leave a comment below.
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