Work Slovakia

Non-EU citizens aiming to work in Slovakia need to obtain a corresponding permit. There are several types of permits depending on the job's nature and the applicant's qualifications.

 

Unified Residence and Work Permit: This is the most common type of permit, allowing both residence and work in Slovakia. To obtain it, you need to:

Preliminary job offer: Find an employer in Slovakia who is willing to hire you.

Application submission: Submit an application for temporary residence for employment purposes at the foreign police department or at the Slovak embassy in your country.

Required documents:

  - Completed application form.

  - Valid passport.

  - Two color photos sized 3 x 3.5 cm.

  - Criminal record certificate from the country of citizenship and countries where you have lived for more than 90 days in the last three years.

  - Document confirming accommodation in Slovakia.

  - Employment contract or official job offer from a Slovak employer.

  - Proof of financial solvency.

  - Receipt of the administrative fee payment.

The application processing time is up to 90 days. After obtaining the permit, you can start working.

 

EU Blue Card: Intended for highly qualified professionals. Requirements:

Higher education: A diploma of higher education relevant to the proposed position.

Employment contract: A contract with a Slovak employer for at least one year with a salary not less than 1.2 times the national average.

Documents for submission:

  - Completed application form.

  - Valid passport.

  - Two color photos sized 3 x 3.5 cm.

  - Criminal record certificate.

  - Document confirming accommodation.

  - Employment contract.

  - Higher education diploma.

  - Receipt of the administrative fee payment.

The application processing time is up to 30 days. The Blue Card is issued for up to 5 years.

 

Seasonal Work Permit: For temporary employment not exceeding 180 days within 12 months. Required:

Employment contract: With an employer in Slovakia for seasonal work.

Application submission: At the Slovak embassy or the foreign police department.

Necessary documents:

  - Completed application form.

  - Valid passport.

  - Two color photos sized 3 x 3.5 cm.

  - Criminal record certificate.

  - Document confirming accommodation.

  - Contract for seasonal work.

  - Receipt of the administrative fee payment.

Processing time is up to 30 days.

 

General Recommendations

Document translation: All documents must be translated into Slovak and notarized.

Consultations: Contact the Migration Information Center or lawyers specializing in Slovak immigration law for detailed information and assistance in the document submission process.

 

Note that the requirements and procedures may change. It is recommended to check the latest information on the official websites of Slovak governmental bodies or consult professionals in the field.

For European Union Citizens

Freedom of movement and employment: EU citizens have the right to move freely and work in Slovakia without needing a work permit or residency visa.

Stay notification: If planning to stay in Slovakia for more than 90 days, it is necessary to notify the local police department of residence within 10 working days of arrival.

Residence registration: If staying for more than 90 days, it is recommended to register at the local municipality to obtain confirmation of temporary residence.

 

For Non-EU Citizens

Work permit and residency: To work in Slovakia, a unified residence and work permit or an EU Blue Card for highly qualified professionals is required.

 

General Recommendations

Consultations: It is recommended to contact the Migration Information Center or lawyers specializing in Slovak immigration law for detailed information and assistance in the application process.

 

Relevance of information: Requirements and procedures may change, so it is important to verify current information on the official websites of Slovak government agencies or consult with professionals in this field.

Setting goals and preparing a resume: Evaluate your professional skills, experience, and qualifications to determine suitable job openings. Prepare a resume in Slovak or English tailored to the requirements of the Slovak labor market.

 

Using online platforms for job searching:

Profesia.sk: One of the largest employment portals in Slovakia, offering a wide range of vacancies in various fields.

Kariéra.sk: A platform with an extensive database of vacancies, including offers for both beginners and experienced professionals.

EURES: The European job mobility portal providing information about vacancies in EU countries, including Slovakia.

LinkedIn: A professional social network where employers post job vacancies and search for candidates.

 

Contacting recruitment agencies: Recruitment agencies can provide access to hidden vacancies and assist in the employment process. Some specialize in specific industries or job levels.

 

Attending job fairs and professional events: Participating in career fairs and professional conferences allows direct contact with employers and provides up-to-date information about the labor market.

 

Exploring corporate websites: Many companies post vacancies on their official websites in the "Career" or "Vacancies" section. Regularly monitoring these sections can help find suitable opportunities.

Language proficiency

Slovak: For most positions, especially those involving communication with clients or colleagues, knowledge of Slovak at a level sufficient to perform professional duties is required.

English: In international companies and the IT sector, proficiency in English is often sufficient. However, knowledge of Slovak will be an advantage.

 

Qualifications and work experience

Education: A diploma corresponding to the required position. In some cases, nostrification (recognition) of a foreign diploma in Slovakia may be required.

Work experience: Practical experience in the relevant field increases the chances of employment. Some positions may require confirmation of work experience.

 

 Additional requirements

References: Positive feedback from previous workplaces can be an advantage.

Certificates and licenses: Some professions require specific certificates or licenses confirming qualifications.

There is significant demand in Slovakia for specialists in both skilled and unskilled labor. 

 

Skilled labor

 

Information Technology (IT):

   - Programmers and software developers.

   - System analysts and administrators.

   - Cybersecurity specialists.

   Slovakia is actively developing the IT sector, attracting international companies and startups, which creates high demand for qualified IT professionals.

 

Engineering and industry:

   - Mechanical and electrical engineers.

   - Automotive engineers.

   - Automation and robotics specialists.

   The country is known for its manufacturing capacities, especially in the automotive industry, requiring highly skilled engineers.

 

Medicine and healthcare:

   - Doctors of various specializations.

   - Nurses and paramedics.

   - Pharmacists.

   The healthcare system is in need of qualified medical workers, especially in regions with staff shortages.

 

Education and science:

   - Lecturers in higher education institutions.

   - Scientific staff and researchers.

   - Specialists in the field of innovation and technology.

   Slovakia invests in the development of science and education, creating opportunities for qualified specialists in these areas.

 

Unskilled labor

 

Construction:

   - Carpenters and plasterers.

   - Auxiliary workers.

   - Installers and laborers.

   The construction industry is actively developing, requiring a large number of workers without special qualifications.

 

Agriculture:

   - Seasonal workers for harvesting.

   - Workers on farms and in greenhouses.

   - Livestock breeders.

   The agricultural sector needs labor, especially in seasonal periods.

 

Service sector:

   - Waiters and bartenders.

   - Maids and cleaners.

   - Kitchen staff and fast-food restaurant workers.

   Tourism and the hospitality industry create demand for workers without special qualifications.

 

Logistics and warehousing:

   - Warehouse workers and pickers.

   - Drivers and couriers.

   - Loaders.

   The development of e-commerce and trade increases the need for personnel for logistic operations.

Pension system structure

 

First level (state): Mandatory social insurance system managed by the Social Insurance Company. Funded by contributions from employers and employees.

 

Second level (savings): Voluntary system allowing citizens to direct part of their contributions to private pension funds. Joining this system is possible for those under 40 years of age. Accumulated funds can be inherited.

 

Third level (supplementary): Voluntary supplementary pension insurance provided by private companies. The amount of contributions and choice of fund depend on the insured person's preferences.

 

Retirement age and requirements:

Retirement age: From 2024, the retirement age in Slovakia is 64 years for both men and women. However, it may be adjusted based on the average life expectancy of the population. 

Work experience: To receive an old-age pension, a minimum insurance experience of at least 15 years is required. 

 

Pension amount

Minimum pension: Set for individuals with at least 30 years of work experience and amounts to 33% of the average wage in the country. 

 

Indexation and additional payments

Indexation: Pensions automatically increase when inflation reaches 5% over a period of at least one quarter. 

13th pension: Paid in December and depends on the type of pension received. 

 

Benefits for pensioners:

- Free public transport, including intercity routes.

- Free prescription medications.

- Additional payments, such as Christmas bonuses.

 

Pension provision for foreigners

Foreign citizens legally working in Slovakia and contributing to the pension fund have the right to receive a pension, provided the established conditions are met, including minimum work experience.

The main types of social insurance include:

 

Pension insurance

 Old-age insurance: Provides pension payments upon reaching retirement age.

 Disability insurance: Provides pensions in the event of complete or partial loss of ability to work.

 Survivor's insurance: Provides payments to dependents in the event of the insured person's death.

 

Medical insurance: Mandatory for all citizens and residents. Provides access to medical services, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.

 

Sickness insurance: Pays benefits in the event of temporary incapacity due to illness or injury.

 

Unemployment insurance: Provides financial support to individuals who have lost their jobs, subject to certain criteria.

 

Accident and occupational disease insurance: Provides compensations and benefits in the event of injuries or diseases related to professional activities.

 

Guarantee fund: Provides payments to workers in the event of employer insolvency.

 

Solidarity Reserve Fund: Used to cover deficits in the social insurance system and ensure its stability.

 

These types of insurance are financed by contributions from employers, employees, and the self-employed. Contribution rates and conditions for receiving benefits are regulated by Slovak law. The system aims to provide social protection and stability for all participants.

In Slovakia, labor relations are regulated by the Labor Code, which establishes the rules for dismissal, granting of leave, including parental leave, and defines public holidays.

 

Dismissal

At the initiative of the employer: The employer can terminate the employment contract only on grounds stipulated by law, such as company liquidation, staff reduction, or serious violation of labor discipline by the employee. The employer must provide written notice stating the reason for dismissal.

At the initiative of the employee: The employee has the right to terminate the employment contract by notifying the employer in writing 2 months before the intended date of dismissal.

Notice periods: The notice period depends on the length of employment:

  Less than 1 year — 1 month.

  More than 1 year — 2 months.

Compensation: In some cases, the employee is entitled to severance pay, the amount of which depends on the reason for dismissal and length of service.

 

Leave

Annual paid leave: The minimum duration is 4 weeks (20 working days) per year. For employees over the age of 33 — 5 weeks.

Parental leave: Mothers are entitled to maternity leave of 34 weeks (37 weeks for the birth of more than one child). After this, parents can take parental leave until the child reaches 3 years of age.

Additional leave: Provided in cases stipulated by law, for example, for employees with hazardous working conditions or for training.

 

Public Holidays

The following public holidays are observed in Slovakia, where employees are exempted from work:

 

January 1 — New Year's Day.

January 6 — Epiphany (Three Kings' Day).

Good Friday and Easter Monday (dates change annually).

May 1 — Labor Day.

May 8 — Victory Day.

July 5 — Saints Cyril and Methodius Day.

August 29 — Slovak National Uprising Day.

September 1 — Constitution Day of the Slovak Republic.

September 15 — Day of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows.

November 1 — All Saints' Day.

November 17 — Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy.

December 24 — Christmas Eve.

December 25 — Christmas Day.

December 26 — Second Christmas Day.

Working on these days is allowed only in exceptional cases and must be compensated according to the law.

In Slovakia, trade unions play an important role in protecting workers' rights and interests. The main organization uniting various sectoral trade unions is the Confederation of Trade Unions of the Slovak Republic (KOZ SR). Founded in 1990, it represents workers' interests at the national and international levels. 

 

Main functions and benefits of union membership

 

Protection of labor rights: Trade unions monitor compliance with labor legislation and collective agreements, ensuring fair working conditions.

 

Negotiations with employers: Trade unions conduct collective bargaining with employers regarding wages, working conditions, and social guarantees, achieving better conditions for workers.

 

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

 

Training and development: Trade unions organize training and seminars to enhance workers' qualifications and professional growth.

 

Social programs: Trade unions offer their members various social programs, including health insurance, pension plans, and other benefits.

 

How to join a trade union

Selecting an appropriate trade union: Determine which trade union corresponds to your industry or profession. KOZ SR unites various sectoral trade unions, information about which can be found on their official website.

Contact with representatives: Contact representatives of the chosen union at your workplace or in the regional office for membership information.

Application submission: Fill out the membership application and provide the necessary documents.

Payment of membership fees: Regularly pay membership fees, which vary depending on the specific union.

 

Union membership provides workers with additional guarantees and support, enhancing working conditions and protecting their rights.

Several forms of business operations are available in Slovakia:

Sole Proprietor: An individual conducting business activities in their name and at their own risk. Registration is carried out in the Trade Register.

Limited Liability Company: The most popular form for small and medium businesses. Requires a minimum share capital and registration in the Commercial Register.

Joint Stock Company: Suitable for large businesses with the ability to attract investors through the issuance of shares.

Main taxes for entrepreneurs:

Corporate Income Tax: The rate is 21% for legal entities.

Value Added Tax (VAT): The standard rate is 20%. Mandatory VAT payer registration upon exceeding a certain turnover.

Social and health contributions: Mandatory for sole proprietors and depend on the level of income.

Labor relations

When hiring employees, it is necessary to comply with labor legislation, including the conclusion of employment contracts, payment of social and health contributions, and ensuring safe working conditions.

Licensing and permits

Certain types of activities require obtaining special licenses or permits. For example, the sale of alcohol, medical services, or construction.

Accounting

All entrepreneurs are required to maintain accounting records in accordance with national standards and submit financial statements to tax authorities.

Support for entrepreneurship

Slovakia offers various business support programs, including subsidies, grants, and preferential loans for startups and small businesses.