If you’re planning to work in Slovakia, securing a work permit and visa is an essential part of the process. While it may seem complex at first, understanding each step can help make the journey smoother and improve your chances of success. Here’s a detailed guide to walk you through the key stages of obtaining a work permit and visa for Slovakia.
Step 1: Find a Job in Slovakia
The first and most crucial step is to secure a valid job offer from a Slovak employer. Without an employment offer, you cannot apply for a work permit or visa.
Step 2: Employer’s Responsibilities
Once you have a job offer, your employer must fulfill certain legal obligations:
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Report the vacancy to the Slovak Labour Office.
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Advertise the position for at least 10 working days to ensure that no suitable local candidate is available for the role.
This requirement helps ensure that the local labor market is prioritized before hiring foreign workers.
Step 3: Submit the Work Permit Application
After the vacancy is cleared, the employer (or in some cases, the employee) submits the work permit application to the Labour Office. This application must include supporting documents, such as:
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The employment contract or a promise of employment.
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Proof of qualifications or certifications required for the job.
Step 4: Labour Office Decision
The Slovak Labour Office reviews the application and typically decides whether to issue the work permit within 20 working days. Approval from the Labour Office is a key milestone in the process.
Step 5: Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit
In addition to the work permit, most applicants will need a temporary residence permit. This application is submitted at the Slovak Embassy in your home country or directly at the Foreign Police Department in Slovakia.
Step 6: Gather Required Documents
To apply for the work permit and temporary residence permit, you will need the following:
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Completed and signed application forms.
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A valid passport.
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Passport-sized photographs.
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Employment contract or official job offer.
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Proof of formal qualifications (if needed for the job).
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Proof of accommodation in Slovakia.
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Proof of sufficient financial means to cover your stay.
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A criminal record statement from your home country and any other countries where you’ve lived.
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Valid health insurance coverage.
Step 7: Apply for a Visa
Once you have obtained both your work permit and temporary residence permit, you can apply for the appropriate visa, typically a D visa for long-term employment. This is done at the Slovak Embassy or Foreign Police Department.
Step 8: Complete the Visa Application Process
Here’s what the visa process generally involves:
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Fill out the online visa application form, print, and sign it.
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Submit the required documents, including your passport, photographs, employment contract, health insurance proof, and a one-way flight reservation.
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Pay the visa fee (typically EUR 35).
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Attend an interview at the Slovak Embassy or Foreign Police Department.
Step 9: Processing Time
Visa applications are usually processed within 15 to 45 days, depending on your case and the workload of the embassy or police department.
Key Considerations and Tips
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Translation and Authentication: All documents that are not originally in Slovak must be translated by an official Slovak or Czech translator and may require authentication through an apostille or superlegalization.
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Special Agreements: Some countries have agreements with Slovakia that may allow for longer validity periods on temporary residence permits.
While the process of obtaining a Slovak work permit and visa involves multiple steps, careful preparation and attention to detail can help ensure success. Start by securing a solid job offer, gather all necessary documents, and work closely with your employer to navigate the application process smoothly.