Work Slovenia

For legal employment in Slovenia, citizens of non-EU countries need to obtain a combined permit for work and residence. This document combines both a work permit and a residence permit, simplifying the immigration process.

Steps to obtain a combined permit

Finding an employer: First of all, you need to find a Slovenian employer willing to offer you a job. The employer must prove that there are no suitable candidates for the position among Slovenian or EU citizens.

Application submission:

Who submits: The application can be submitted by either the employer in Slovenia or the applicant themselves through a Slovenian diplomatic mission in their country.

Where to submit: If the employer submits the application – to the appropriate administrative authority in Slovenia; if self-submitted – to the Slovenian embassy or consulate in the country of residence.

Required documents:

- A valid foreign passport.

- A completed application form.

- A color passport-sized photo.

- Health insurance valid in Slovenia.

- A certificate of no criminal record, translated into Slovenian and notarized.

- Proof of sufficient funds for living (e.g., bank statement).

- A signed employment contract or official job offer from the Slovenian employer.

- Documents proving qualifications and education relevant to the offered position.

Processing time: The application review process usually takes about 60 days. After approval, you will receive a combined permit card, allowing you to legally live and work in Slovenia.

Additional information

Permit duration: The initial permit is issued for up to one year, with the possibility of extension provided the employment relationship continues.

Extension: An application for extension must be submitted before the current permit expires, providing up-to-date documents confirming continued employment and compliance with requirements.

Special categories: Highly qualified professionals may be eligible for the "EU Blue Card," which is issued for up to two years with the possibility of renewal.

Note that requirements and procedures may change, so it is recommended to verify current information on official resources or seek consultation with specialists in immigration law before submitting an application.

EU Citizens

Free access to the labor market: EU, European Economic Area, and Swiss citizens have the right to work in Slovenia without needing a work permit.

Residence registration: If staying in Slovenia for more than 90 days, it is necessary to register the place of residence with the local administrative authority.

Third-country nationals

Combined residence and work permit: Citizens of non-EU countries must obtain a combined residence and work permit for legal residence and employment in Slovenia.

Exceptions

Free access to the labor market: Some categories of foreign nationals have the right to free access to the Slovenian labor market without the need for a permit. This may depend on international agreements or special conditions.

Recommendations

Since legislation and procedures may change, it is recommended to verify current information on official resources or consult specialists in immigration law before initiating the employment process.

Using online platforms

Mojedelo.com: One of the largest Slovenian job search portals, offering a wide range of vacancies in various industries.

ESS.gov.si: The official website of the Slovenian Employment Service, posting vacancies for locals and foreigners.

Careerjet.si: An international job search engine, including offers from Slovenian employers.

EURES: The European Job Mobility Portal, providing information on job vacancies in EU countries, including Slovenia.

Employment Agencies

Contacting specialized agencies can speed up the job search process. They have an extensive database of employers and can offer positions that match your skills and experience.

Social Networks and Professional Communities

Participating in professional groups on platforms such as Facebook and LinkedIn can help establish useful contacts and learn about hidden job vacancies.

Direct Contact with Employers

Proactively sending resumes and cover letters directly to companies of interest can increase your chances of employment.

Participation in Job Fairs

Attending career events and job fairs in Slovenia offers the opportunity for direct communication with employers and obtaining information about available positions.

Employment in Slovenia for foreign citizens requires meeting certain requirements, which may vary depending on the applicant's citizenship and the specifics of the position offered.

Language Skills

Slovenian Language: Knowledge of Slovenian is a significant advantage and may be mandatory for many positions, especially those involving direct communication with clients or colleagues. Some employers may require proof of language proficiency.

English Language: In international companies and sectors oriented towards the global market, knowledge of the English language is highly valued and may be sufficient for employment.

Qualifications and Education

Diplomas and Certificates: Employers expect confirmation of the appropriate level of education and professional qualifications. In some cases, nostrification (recognition) of foreign diplomas may be required in Slovenia.

Work Experience: Practical experience in the relevant field increases the chances of successful employment. Some positions may require a certain length of service.

Work and Residence Permit

EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens: Have the right to work in Slovenia without the need to obtain a special work permit.

Third-Country Nationals: Must obtain a single residence and work permit.

Specific Employer Requirements

Professional Skills: Depending on the position, specific skills may be required, such as proficiency with certain technologies, software, or methodologies.

Personal Qualities: Communication skills, teamwork ability, adaptability, and other soft skills are often important criteria when selecting candidates.

Additional Documents

Medical Insurance: Required to obtain a residence and work permit.

Criminal Record Certificate: May be required to confirm the applicant's reliability.

Recommendations

Consultation of Specialists: Seek advice from professionals in immigration law or employment agencies for up-to-date information and support in the employment process.

Skilled Labor

Information Technology (IT): Software Developers; Cybersecurity Specialists; Network Administrators; Data Analysts.

Engineering: Mechanical Engineers; Electrical Engineers; Civil Engineers; Automation Engineers.

Medicine and Healthcare: Doctors of various specializations; Nurses; Medical Technicians; Pharmacists.

Education: Foreign Language Teachers; University Lecturers; Researchers.

Unskilled Labor

Construction: Bricklayers; Welders; Carpenters; Electricians.

Transport and Logistics: Truck Drivers; Warehouse Workers; Logistics Managers.

Hospitality and Catering: Waitstaff; Kitchen Assistants; Housekeepers; Administrators.

Agriculture: Seasonal Farm Workers; Harvesters; Greenhouse Workers.

Please note that the labor market situation may change, so it is advisable to regularly check current job openings and employer requirements.

Main Aspects of Pension Provision in Slovenia

Retirement Age: For both men and women, the retirement age is set at 65 years.

Pension Amount: The average pension in Slovenia is around 700–800 euros per month. The pension amount is calculated based on the average salary and usually constitutes 62–69% of the worker's average wage.

Work Experience Requirements: To receive a full pension, it is necessary to have at least 40 years of work experience. With incomplete experience, the pension amount decreases proportionally to the number of years lacking.

Contributions: Employees and employers are required to make contributions to the pension fund. The contribution rate is determined by law and regularly reviewed.

Features for Foreign Citizens

Right to a Pension: Foreign citizens officially working in Slovenia and paying contributions to the pension fund are entitled to receive a pension on par with Slovenian citizens.

International Agreements: Slovenia has concluded social security agreements with several countries, allowing foreign work periods to be considered when calculating pensions. This is especially important for individuals with work experience in multiple countries.

Pension Transfer Abroad: Pensioners residing outside Slovenia can receive their Slovenian pension to foreign bank accounts. This requires providing proof of residence and other necessary documents.

Additional Aspects

Voluntary Pension Insurance: In addition to obligatory state insurance, Slovenia has a system of voluntary pension insurance, allowing one to increase their future pension amount.

Social Benefits for Pensioners: Pensioners in Slovenia are entitled to various benefits, including discounts on public transport, access to cultural institutions, and medical services.

Recommendations for Immigrants

Consultation with Experts: It is recommended to consult with social security experts to gain detailed information about pension rights and obligations in Slovenia.

Considering International Experience: If you have worked in other countries, check the possibility of including this experience when calculating a Slovenian pension in accordance with international agreements.

Please note that pension legislation may change, so it is important to regularly verify the current information on official resources or with competent authorities.

Mandatory Pension and Disability Insurance

Pension Insurance: Provides payments upon reaching retirement age or retiring due to years of service.

Disability Insurance: Offers benefits in case of loss of working ability due to illness or accident.

Mandatory Health Insurance

Medical Services: Covers medical treatment costs, including doctor consultations, hospitalization, and medications.

Monetary Benefits: Include sickness benefits, lump-sum payments in case of death, and reimbursement for treatment abroad.

Unemployment Insurance

Unemployment Benefits: Provides financial support in case of job loss.

Additional Payments: Include transportation and relocation costs compensation, as well as coverage of health and pension contributions during unemployment.

Parental Protection Insurance

Childcare Leave: Provides paid maternity, childcare, and paternity leave.

Parental Benefits: Include payments during the childcare leave.

Thus, the social insurance system in Slovenia aims to ensure social protection for citizens and residents, offering a wide range of services and benefits in various life situations.

Dismissal

At the Employer's Initiative: The employer can terminate the employment contract only on legal grounds, such as:

Serious breaches of work duties by the employee.

Business reasons, e.g., economic or organizational changes.

The employee's inability to perform work due to lack of necessary skills or health-related reasons.

When dismissing at the employer's initiative, it is necessary to follow established procedures, including written notice and providing the employee an opportunity to express their opinion.

At the employee's initiative: An employee has the right to terminate the employment contract by notifying the employer in writing 30 days before the intended date of dismissal.

Notice periods: The notice periods may vary depending on the duration of employment relationships and employment contract conditions.

Leave

Annual leave: Each employee is entitled to an annual paid leave of at least 4 weeks.

Parental leave: Parents have the right to parental leave, which includes:

Maternity leave: Duration of 105 days, starting 28 days before the expected date of childbirth.

Paternity leave: The father is entitled to 30 days of leave, which can be used until the child reaches 6 months.

Parental leave: After the maternity leave ends, parents are entitled to additional leave of 260 days, which can be split between both parents.

Public holidays

The following national holidays are established in Slovenia, during which employees are exempted from work:

January 1 and 2: New Year.

February 8: Prešeren Day (Prešernov dan), a cultural holiday.

April 27: Day of Resistance against Occupation (dan upora proti okupatorju).

May 1 and 2: Labor Day.

June 25: Statehood Day.

August 15: Assumption of Mary.

October 31: Reformation Day.

November 1: All Saints' Day.

December 25: Christmas.

December 26: Independence and Unity Day.

Work on these days is usually not carried out, except in cases provided by law, such as in continuous productions or emergency services.

Additional aspects

Worker protection: The Slovenian Labor Code provides protection for certain categories of workers, such as pregnant women, parents of young children, and persons with disabilities, from dismissal without valid reasons.

Severance pay: In the event of dismissal at the employer's initiative, an employee may be entitled to severance pay, the amount of which depends on the length of service and reasons for dismissal.

For more detailed information, it is recommended to consult official documents and, if necessary, seek advice from experts in Slovenian labor law.

Main professional unions

Union of Free Trade Unions of Slovenia: The largest trade union organization in the country, bringing together 22 sector unions from various sectors, both private and public; a voluntary and democratic organization, independent of political parties, parliament, government, and religious communities.

Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions of Slovenia: Unites unions representing the interests of employees in the public sector, including education, healthcare, and public administration.

Union of Trade Unions of Slovenia: Represents the interests of employees in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and transportation.

Role and functions of professional unions

Protection of workers' rights: Unions represent the interests of their members in negotiations with employers, ensuring compliance with labor legislation and collective agreements.

Negotiations on wages and working conditions: Participate in collective bargaining, striving to ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and additional benefits for workers.

Legal support: Provide their members with consultations and assistance in case of labor disputes or violations of rights.

Education and training: Organize seminars and training sessions aimed at improving workers' qualifications and informing them of their rights and responsibilities.

Social support: Offer their members various support programs, including financial assistance, insurance, and other social services.

Benefits of union membership for immigrants

Adaptation to the new work environment: Unions help immigrants understand local labor norms and integrate into the workforce.

Protection from Discrimination: Ensures equal treatment for foreign workers and protects them from potential workplace discrimination.

Information on Rights: Provides up-to-date information on the rights and obligations of workers in Slovenia, which is especially important for those unfamiliar with local legislation.

Membership in a trade union provides workers with additional guarantees and support, contributing to the improvement of working conditions and the protection of their rights in Slovenia.

Legal Forms of Entrepreneurship

Sole Proprietor (Samostojni podjetnik, s.p.): This is the most common form for small businesses. Registration is simple and does not require initial capital. The sole proprietor bears unlimited liability for their business obligations.

Limited Liability Company (Družba z omejeno odgovornostjo, d.o.o.): Requires a minimum share capital and provides limited liability for members within the scope of their contributions. Suitable for medium and large businesses.

Taxation:

Corporate Income Tax: The standard corporate income tax rate is 19%.

Value Added Tax (VAT): The standard VAT rate is 22%, with reduced rates of 9.5% and 5% for certain goods and services.

Social Contributions: Entrepreneurs are required to pay contributions for social insurance, including pension and medical insurance.

Labor Legislation

Labor Relations: Employers are obliged to comply with labor legislation, including concluding employment contracts, observing minimum wages, and ensuring safe working conditions.

Social Insurance: Employers are required to register employees in the social insurance system and pay the corresponding contributions.

Entrepreneurial Support

Government Support: Slovenia offers various support programs for small and medium-sized enterprises, including subsidies, loans, and training.

Infrastructure: Developed infrastructure and strategic location make Slovenia attractive for doing business.

Economic Environment

Small and Medium Enterprises: Small and medium enterprises make up 99.8% of all companies in Slovenia, providing about 70% of employment and 65% of revenue.

Investment Climate: Slovenia strives to improve the business environment by attracting new investments and supporting the growth of exporters.

In general, Slovenia offers favorable conditions for doing business, combining ease of registration, support for small and medium-sized businesses, and strategic location in Europe.