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Implementation of the new immigration rules in Slovakia for foreign workers

Key Points

  • New rules for the residence and employment of foreigners in Slovakia, effective July 15, 2024, include tighter conditions for employing highly qualified foreigners and changing the purpose of stay.
  • The procedure for applying for temporary residence for employment now requires a favorable opinion from the labor office before applying.
  • Foreigners with upcoming immigration police appointments must cancel and reschedule them after obtaining the labor office confirmation.

Introduction of New Regulations in Slovakia

Effective from 15 July, Slovakia has implemented significant amendments to its rules governing the residence and employment of foreigners. These changes mark the most substantial update since the Act on the Residence of Foreigners was enacted in 2011.

This procedural change aims to expedite the overall process and reduce the administrative burden on the police. Consequently, foreigners will be informed in advance whether their application is likely to be approved or rejected by the labor office, even before they apply for temporary residence with the police.

Employment Conditions and Residency Requirements

As per the new act, several key conditions have been altered, particularly those related to the employment of highly qualified foreigners and the criteria for changing one’s purpose of stay.

New Procedure for Temporary Residence Applications

The application process for temporary residence based on employment is undergoing a notable change. A foreigner can only apply for this type of residence after the labor office has issued a favorable opinion on the job vacancy. Previously, the police were responsible for obtaining this opinion directly from the labor office. With the new amendment, the responsibility shifts to the employer to secure this opinion in advance.

Impact on Current Applicants

Foreigners who have scheduled appointments with the immigration police in the coming weeks will be unable to submit their applications without the labor office’s opinion. This opinion can be requested starting July 15, and the labor office has up to 15 working days to provide it.

The police advise applicants to cancel their current appointments and reschedule once they have received the labor office’s confirmation. Availability of appointment slots at the foreigner’s police varies by region, with Bratislava experiencing wait times of up to two months.

Changes for the EU Blue Card

Some changes have also been announced for the EU Blue Card in the new act. The new rules stipulate that a first-level university degree will now suffice for eligibility. Additionally, the validity period for the blue card can be extended to up to five years.

Business permission on temporary residence permit

Third-country nationals who obtain temporary residence for employment can no longer immediately switch to business residence. They must now wait 12 months from the date of their employment-based residence approval before changing their purpose of stay to business.

Language and Financial Requirements

Starting July 15, applicants for long-term residence permits will need to demonstrate knowledge of the Slovak language at the A2 level. This new requirement aims to ensure better integration of foreigners into Slovak society.

Additionally, applicants for both temporary and permanent residence must now provide proof of financial security. For employment-based residences, this proof can be an employment contract, while business-based residence applicants must submit account statements from the past three months.