How to Hire Foreign Workers in Slovakia?

In recent years, Slovakia has become a hub for manufacturing, IT, and logistics industries, leading to a growing demand for skilled labor. With a shrinking local workforce and a low unemployment rate, many Slovak companies are turning to foreign workers to fill the gap. But hiring workers from abroad involves several legal steps and bureaucratic procedures. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help employers in Slovakia hire foreign nationals efficiently and lawfully.

Understanding the Legal Framework

Before initiating the hiring process, it's important to distinguish between EU/EEA/Swiss nationals and third-country nationals (those from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland), as the process differs significantly:

EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: Do not need a work permit. They can live and work in Slovakia freely but must register their stay if it exceeds 90 days.
Third-Country Nationals: Require a work and residence permit before employment.

Step-by-Step Guide for Hiring Third-Country Nationals

1. Labor Market Test

Before you can hire a third-country national, you must first conduct a labor market test (LMT). This involves:

Advertising the job vacancy with the Slovak Labor Office (ÚPSVaR) for at least 20 working days.
If no suitable Slovak or EU candidate is found during this period, the employer can proceed with a foreign national.

Exceptions: Highly skilled roles and shortage occupations may be exempt from the labor market test.

2. Job Offer and Required Documents

Once the LMT is passed (or exempted), the employer can make a formal job offer. The foreign worker will need the following documents to apply for a work and residence permit:

Valid passport
Employment contract or binding job offer
Proof of accommodation in Slovakia
Criminal record certificate (from their home country)
Medical certificate (issued after arrival in Slovakia)
Recognition of education (if required by the job)

3. Single Permit Application

Slovakia operates a Single Permit System, which combines the residence and work permit in one. The application must be submitted to:

The Slovak Embassy or Consulate in the worker’s home country, or
The Foreign Police Department in Slovakia (if the individual is already legally residing in Slovakia)

Processing time typically ranges from 30 to 90 days.

4. Employment Contract and Notification

Once the foreign worker receives the permit:

The employer must sign an employment contract before the employee starts work.
The Labor Office must be notified of the start of employment no later than the employee's first working day.
The employer must also report any changes (e.g., termination) within seven working days.

5. Compliance and Record-Keeping

Employers are required to:

Maintain records of foreign workers
Ensure timely renewal of permits
Provide equal working conditions and pay as for local workers
Cooperate with inspections by Slovak authorities

Non-compliance can result in penalties, including fines and restrictions on future hiring.

Fast-Track Options for Employers

Some foreign nationals may qualify for fast-track processing if they:

Work in sectors experiencing labor shortages
Have been posted from a company within the EU
Apply under bilateral agreements (e.g., with Ukraine, Serbia, etc.)

Employers can also partner with recruitment agencies or labor outsourcing firms to streamline the process.

Hiring foreign workers in Slovakia is a strategic solution to workforce shortages, but it requires careful planning and adherence to legal procedures. Understanding the process, preparing accurate documentation, and staying updated on immigration laws will help employers avoid delays and legal issues.

By following this guide, Slovak employers can navigate the complexities of hiring foreign workers while ensuring compliance with national regulations and building a more diverse and skilled workforce.