Work Visa in Slovakia - How to Obtain?
Slovakia has become appealing to international workers thanks to its strong economy and comfortable living standards. For non-EU nationals, obtaining a work visa is the legal way to start employment. Success depends on following the rules carefully from the very beginning.
What Is Required to Get a Work Visa?
The country is part of the European Union, so EU and EEA citizens don’t need a visa to work and reside there. For residents of other countries, a work visa in Slovakia and an employment permit are mandatory. The following are usually necessary:
- valid passport and photographs;
- completed application forms;
- payment of state fees;
- proof of financial means;
- medical insurance;
- labor contract with a local employer;
- documents confirming qualifications or work experience.
The specific requirements depend on the kind of visa and the applicant.
How Are Work Visas and Residence Permits Related?
Immigration involves many options, deadlines, and requirements. For entrepreneurs, there are only a few possibilities, such as registering a sole proprietorship, managing a limited liability company, or launching an innovative project. In the case of labor immigration, the choice is wider, and here it’s necessary to consider a combination of several possible forms of documents and conditions for interaction with the labor exchange.
A standard work residence permit is most often issued. It gives the right to work for a specific employer. There are simplified procedures for those who occupy positions where there is a shortage of labor. For highly qualified specialists, there is the European Union’s “blue card”, which allows them to work and extend their status in other EU countries. In addition, the right to work can also be granted through other forms of residence, such as family reunification.
The main condition remains unchanged: a residence permit for employment can only be requested after a work visa is granted. Without it, the submission process is impossible.
