Step 1: ✅ Find a Job in Slovakia
You must have a valid job offer from a Slovak employer.
Without it, you cannot apply for a work permit or visa.
Step 2: 🧾 Employer’s Responsibilities
Your employer must:
- Report the job vacancy to the Slovak Labour Office
- Advertise the position for at least 10 working days Ensures no suitable Slovak/EU candidate is available
Step 3: 📄 Submit the Work Permit Application
After the vacancy clears, the employer (or sometimes the employee) submits the application.
It must include:
- Signed employment contract or offer letter
- Proof of qualifications or certifications
Step 4: 🏢 Labour Office Decision
The Labour Office typically decides within 20 working days.
Approval is a key milestone in the process.
Step 5: 🏠 Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit
In addition to the work permit, most applicants will need a temporary residence permit.
Submit the application at:
- A Slovak embassy abroad, or
- The Foreign Police Department in Slovakia
Step 6: 📑 Gather Required Documents
You will need:
- Completed & signed application forms
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Employment contract or job offer
- Qualifications (if required)
- Proof of accommodation in Slovakia
- Proof of financial means to support your stay
- Criminal record certificate from your home country and others where you’ve lived
- Valid health insurance
Step 7: 🛂 Apply for a Visa
Once both permits are obtained, apply for the appropriate visa — typically a D visa (for long-term employment).
Submit at:
- A Slovak embassy, or
- The Foreign Police Department
Step 8: ✅ Complete the Visa Application Process
The visa process includes:
- Fill out the online visa application
- Submit required documents (passport, insurance, contract, flight, etc.)
- Pay the visa fee (typically €35)
- Attend an interview
Step 9: ⏳ Processing Time
Visa applications are processed within 15 to 45 days, depending on your case and embassy workload.
💡 Key Considerations and Tips
- Translation and Authentication:
All non-Slovak documents must be:- Officially translated
- Possibly apostilled or superlegalized
- Special Agreements:
Some countries have bilateral agreements with Slovakia allowing extended residence periods.
✅ Final Advice
- Start with a solid job offer
- Gather complete documentation
- Work closely with your employer
- Prepare early to avoid delays
With careful preparation, getting a Slovak work permit and visa is absolutely achievable.