Slovakia

About the country

Slovenia, which is situated between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, provides its residents a moderate temperature, breathtakingly beautiful scenery, a rich cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine.

Work-life balance, community, and health are the characteristics that Slovenians value most, according to the OECD Better Life Index. The majority of Slovenians report to be content with their life, to feel safe in their surroundings thanks to low crime rates, and to be exposed to little CO2.

Over 90% of Slovenians can speak a foreign language, and over 70% of the population can hold a conversation in two or more foreign languages, which is good news if you're thinking about working there. Italian, German, and especially English are commonly utilized. 

Slovenia has more than 15 million overnight stays as of 2022. Spa resorts, mountain resorts, coastal resorts, and the municipality of Ljubljana are the most popular. Tourism contributes up to 7.7% of Slovenia's GDP, making it a significant sector of the economy. (Reference: SURS)

Where are the available jobs?

There are a variety of sectors and regions in Slovakia that offer employment opportunities, contingent on the current market demand, your skills, qualifications, and language skills. Here are some sectors and resources to consider:

1. There are a number of online job portals, including Profesia.sk, Indeed, LinkedIn, and Jobs.sk, where you can find job listings in Slovakia.
2. Recruitment Agencies: Many companies use recruitment agencies to cover vacancies. Submitting your resume to these agencies can be an effective means of discovering employment opportunities.
3. If there are specific companies in which you are interested in working, search their websites for job postings. Some significant employers in Slovakia include Volkswagen, U.S. Steel Košice, ESET, and Slovnaft.
4. In Slovakia, the automotive industry is a significant employer in terms of industries. Other industries that frequently offer employment opportunities include Information Technology, Electronics, Mechanical Engineering, the Chemical industry, the Service sector (banking, insurance, and tourism), and the healthcare industry.
5. Networking: Both offline and online networking can be very beneficial. Numerous job openings are unadvertised, so attending industry events and networking with Slovakian professionals can help you uncover these opportunities.
6. Occasionally, embassies and consulates can provide information regarding employment opportunities within their network or resources.

Keep in mind that the ability to speak Slovak may be a requirement or a significant asset for many positions, particularly those requiring interaction with local clients or customers.

Please be aware that job availability can fluctuate based on the current economic climate and the demand for specific talents. When planning a job search, it is advised to research the most current labor market conditions. Also, before accepting a job in Slovakia, ensure that you have the appropriate work authorization.

To the best of my knowledge, these are some of the locations in Slovakia where you can search for employment opportunities as of September 2021. Ensure that the most current information comes from reputable sources.

Hot jobs:

As of my final training deadline in September 2021, several sectors in Slovakia exhibited a high demand for labor. These consist of:

1. Information Technology (IT): Similar to many other nations, Slovakia has a significant demand for IT professionals. This includes software developers, system analysts, IT consultants, and cybersecurity professionals.
2. Slovakia has one of the highest per capita automobile productions in the world, with Volkswagen, Peugeot, and Kia operating major assembly plants. Consequently, jobs in automobile production, engineering, and related disciplines are frequently in demand.
3. In addition to the automotive industry, Slovakia has a need for engineers in disciplines such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.
4. Medical professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and medical technicians, are in high demand due in part to the geriatric population.
5. Financial Services: Positions such as financial analysts, accountants, and auditors are in high demand in Slovakia, especially in metropolitan areas such as Bratislava.
6. Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Due to its central location in Europe, Slovakia is an important logistics and supply chain center. These positions are frequently sought after.
7. Customer Service Representatives who are bilingual, particularly those who speak English, German, or other languages, can find work in a variety of industries.
8. Native speakers of English and other languages are frequently sought after for teaching positions, particularly in private language schools and international schools.

Keep in mind that labor market conditions can change rapidly, and "hot jobs" can vary based on current economic conditions, technological advances, and other factors. Always conduct investigation on the most recent labor market trends before applying for a position. Before accepting any job proposals in Slovakia, you must ensure that you have the proper work authorization.

Please consult local labor market information or contact Slovakia's employment services or professional associations for the most current and detailed information available.

Where are the available workers?

If you are searching for potential employees in Slovakia, you have multiple options:

1. Job Portals: Online platforms such as Profesia.sk, Indeed, and LinkedIn are frequently utilized by job seekers in Slovakia, making them excellent locations for posting job ads and searching for potential candidates.
2.  Recruitment Agencies Recruitment or employment agencies can assist in locating qualified candidates for your open position. They frequently maintain databases of job seekers and can help match qualifications to job requirements.
3. Universities, colleges, and vocational institutions can be excellent sources for recent graduates and entry-level workers. Frequently, they have career services departments that connect employers with students and alumni.
4. Job fairs and networking events offer the chance to meet potential candidates in person. They are frequently organized by industry, profession, or academic institution.
5. Social Networks: Platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter can be useful for locating potential candidates, particularly for digital-skills-required positions. You are able to post job openings and search for candidates who possess the required skills.
6. Government Labor Offices: The local Office of Labour, Social Affairs, and Family (rad práce, sociáln vec a rodina) can be a source of potential candidates, especially for positions requiring local or regional knowledge or skills.
7. Professional Associations: Through networking events, online forums, and job posting services, membership organizations associated with your industry can often connect employers with prospective employees.

Keep in mind that the availability and suitability of potential employees can vary based on variables such as the current labor market, economic conditions, and the job's specific requirements. Always conduct exhaustive interviews and verifications to ensure that prospective employees meet your requirements and have the legal right to work in Slovakia. This information is accurate to the best of my knowledge until September 2021; for the most current information, please consult official resources or a local HR expert.

Short overview of the labour market:

As of my last training deadline in September 2021, here is a brief overview of the Slovakian labor market:

1. The service sector accounts for over sixty percent of Slovakia's gross domestic product (GDP). Nonetheless, the nation is renowned for its robust industrial sector, which includes the automotive, electronics, and mechanical engineering industries.
2. The automotive industry is a key contributor to Slovakia's economy, with several of the world's largest automakers operating in the country. Other significant industries include information technology, electronics, steel manufacturing, chemical manufacturing, and financial services.
3. According to Eurostat data, the Slovakian employment rate for those aged 20-64 in 2020 was approximately 73%, slightly below the EU average.
4. In general, Slovakia's unemployment rate has been higher than the EU average, although it has been decreasing in recent years. According to Eurostat, the unemployment rate was approximately 6.7% in 2020.
5. The median age of the Slovak workforce is in the late 30s, which is comparatively young compared to other EU countries. A large proportion of the population has completed secondary or tertiary education, making up the vast majority of the labor force.
6. As of 2021, in-demand occupations included jobs in the IT sector, engineers in various disciplines, medical professionals, skilled technicians for the industrial sector, and bilingual representatives of customer service.
7. Work Conditions: The standard work week in Slovakia is forty hours. There are minimum wage laws in place, and average earnings have increased over the past decade, although they remain lower than the EU average.
8. Workforce Challenges: Regional disparities in employment opportunities, a shortage of skilled workers in certain sectors, and integrating marginalized groups, such as the Roma population, into the labor market are challenges confronting the Slovak labor market.

Consider that the situation can alter rapidly due to a variety of factors, such as economic conditions, government policies, technological advancements, and other variables. Please consult recent labor market reports or contact Slovakia's employment services for the most recent information.

Types of Slovakia Visas

There are various types of Slovakian visas based on the reason for your trip:

1. Slovakia Tourist (Schengen) Visa.If you intend to visit Slovakia as a tourist, you must register for a Slovakian (Schengen) tourist visa. A Schengen visa allows the holder to access Slovakia and the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. This visa type may be issued for one, two, or multiple entries.
2. Slovakia Transit Visa.If you use a Slovakian airport to change aircraft en route to a third destination, a transit visa is required. A transit visa for an airport allows you to enter international transit areas but prohibits you from leaving the airport, even if you must remain overnight.
3.  Slovakia Work Visa.Non-EU citizens who wish to work in Slovakia must first apply for a visa and work permit. To apply for a work visa, you must possess a job offer. Together, you and your employer must submit a visa application (along with all the necessary documents).
4. Slovakia Student Visa.Non-EU citizens who have been accepted to a Slovak university and wish to study in Slovakia for more than three months (90 days) must apply for a Slovakia student visa and a permit. This form of visa will permit you to continue your educational program until you have graduated.
5. Slovakia Family Visa.If you are a Slovak citizen or non-EU resident of Slovakia and you want to bring your (non-EU) family members with you, they must register for a Slovakia family visa. This form of visa is also granted to family members of asylum-seekers and foreign nationals with subsidiary protection for the required duration.

Types of Slovakia Work Visa

You can apply for one of the following categories of Slovakian work visas, depending on your occupation or type of employment:

1. Slovakia Single Permit.This is one of the most prevalent categories of work visas issued to foreign nationals seeking employment in Slovakia. You do not need to apply for a work permit for a single permit in order to operate in the country. Nonetheless, this form of visa is issued on the basis of confirmation that a vacancy can be filled. Before applying for a single permit (temporary residence for the purpose of employment), your prospective employer must notify the Labour Office of a job opening 20 days in advance.
2. Work Permit.In certain instances, Slovakia issues employment permits. Consequently, this will depend on the form of employment and your circumstances. For instance, if you have a temporary residence permit based on family reunification and wish to work within the first year of entering the country, you will need this. Before you can register for this permit, your employer must notify the Labor Office of the job opening at least 10 days in advance.
3. Temporary Employment. This provisional work permit is issued when the duration of employment does not exceed 180 days per year. Depending on whether or not you require a Schengen Visa to access Slovakia, different rules apply to citizens of third countries.
4. EU Blue Card.This is a type of temporary residence granted to foreign nationals who satisfy the basic requirements and are highly qualified for employment in Slovakia. This form of work visa permits entry, residence, and employment in Slovakia.

Please be aware that the names, requirements, and procedures for these permits can vary and alter over time. Consult the local Slovak embassy, consulate, or the relevant government agency for the most precise and current information. Also contemplate seeking the counsel of an immigration-focused attorney.

Remember that my training only extends to September 2021, and the laws and regulations may have changed if you inquire after this date.

Requirements to acquire Slovakia work permit

To apply for a work permit in Slovakia as a non-EU citizen after my last training cut-off in September 2021, you will generally need to meet the following requirements:

1. Before applying for a work authorization, you must have an offer of employment from a Slovak employer. The employer must demonstrate that there are no qualified applicants from Slovakia or the European Union.
2. Application Documents: You must submit a number of documents, including a completed application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of health insurance, a job contract or binding job offer, proof of accommodation in Slovakia, and any pertinent diplomas and certificates.
3. In some instances, you may be required to undergo a medical examination to demonstrate that you do not have any significant diseases.
4. You may be required to provide a criminal record check to demonstrate that you have no substantial criminal convictions.
5. When you submit your application, you will be required to pay an application fee.

If you intend to stay in Slovakia for more than 90 days after your work permit is approved, you will typically need to apply for a residence permit as well.
Please note that these are general requirements that may vary based on the specifics of your situation, including the type of work you will be performing and the type of permit you are requesting.

In addition, the supplied information is based on the regulations in effect as of my final training deadline in September 2021. It is always a good idea to consult with the nearest Slovak embassy or consulate, or the appropriate government agency, for the most up-to-date information, as there may have been modifications or updates since that time. Also contemplate seeking the counsel of an immigration-focused attorney.

Steps to apply for Slovakia work permit:

Based on the information available until the end of my training in September 2021, the following are the general steps required to apply for a work permit in Slovakia:

1. You must first obtain an offer of employment from a Slovak employer. Typically, the employer must initiate the work permit application procedure.
2. Gather Necessary Documents: Assemble the required documents, which typically include a valid passport, passport-sized photographs, proof of health insurance, a job contract or binding employment offer, proof of accommodation in Slovakia, and any necessary diplomas and certificates. In some instances, you may also be required to submit a health examination report and a criminal background check. Consider that certain documents may require translation into Slovak.
3. Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the application for a work authorization. Ensure that you accurately provide all requested information.
4. Your Slovak employer typically submits the application form and supporting documentation to the local Office of Labour, Social Affairs, and Family (rad práce, sociáln vec a rodina). Some documentation may require original presentation.
5. Pay Application Fee: Typically, an application fee is required. Depending on local regulations and customs, either the employer or the applicant must pay this fee.
6. After the application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by the appropriate authorities. Depending on a number of variables, this procedure can take several weeks to months.
7. You will obtain your work permit if your application is approved.
8. Apply for a Residence Permit: If you intend to remain in Slovakia for longer than 90 days, you will typically be required to apply for a temporary residence permit in addition to your work permit.

Remember that these are general measures that may vary based on the specifics of the situation. In addition, regulations may have changed since my last update in September 2021. For the most up-to-date and comprehensive information, please consult an official source or an immigration expert.

Benefits of a work permit

A work permit in Slovakia provides non-EU nationals with the following advantages:

1. Legal Employment: A work permit gives you the legal right to work in Slovakia for a specified employer and in a specific position.
2. Income Opportunities: It allows you to earn a livelihood and gain professional experience.
3. Access to Social Services: Work permit holders, like other residents, can access public services such as healthcare, education, and social security, according to Slovak laws.
4. Path to Permanent Residency: A work permit can be a step towards permanent residency or even citizenship in Slovakia, provided you meet additional requirements.
5. Travel within Schengen Area: Slovakia is part of the Schengen Area. Therefore, a work permit holder can generally travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without needing a visa.
6. Family Reunification: In some cases, family members may be eligible to join the work permit holder in Slovakia.
7. Cultural Experience: Living and working in Slovakia can be a rich cultural experience, with opportunities to learn a new language and lifestyle.

Please note that this information is based on regulations in effect as of September 2021, the date of my last training deadline. Check with the nearest Slovak embassy or consulate, or the appropriate government agency for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as changes or updates may have occurred since then.

Living Costs in Slovakia

The cost of living in Slovakia can vary considerably depending on the city, region, and individual's way of life. Here is an approximate estimate of the average monthly expenses (all prices are estimated in Euros and are, to the best of my knowledge, set to expire in September 2021):

These costs can differ, and the overall cost of living could be lower or higher based on variables such as location, consumption patterns, lifestyle choices, etc. For instance, living expenses in Bratislava, the nation's capital, tend to be higher than in other regions.

This table is intended as a guide, and actual expenses may vary. Always conduct your own research or consult with locals or expatriates residing in Slovakia for up-to-date and comprehensive information on the cost of living.

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How can AtoZ Serwis Plus assist you?

AtoZ Serwis Plus will provide the services listed below to get a Slovakia work visa:

• Counseling: Get AtoZ Serwis Plus’ free counseling services.
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• Updates & Follow-up with the Consulate

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