Do Argentine citizens need a permit to work in Slovakia?
Argentines planning to work in Slovakia for a long term need to obtain a visa and a work permit.
Slovakia work permit from Argentina
To work in Slovakia, Argentines must obtain:
- a single residence and work permit; or
- a work permit and a temporary residence permit for the purpose of employment; or
- a temporary residence permit for the purpose of family reunification and, for the first 12 months, a work permit; or
- temporary residence of a third-country national who has the status of a long-term resident in another EU Member State and, for the first 12 months, also a work permit.
The work permit is issued by Employment, Social and Family Service at the location of the future workplace.
Slovakia job vacancy for Argentines
- Industry and manufacturing. Slovakia has a developed industrial sector, in particular the automotive industry, where skilled workers and engineers are constantly in demand.
- Construction. The growing construction sector creates a demand for specialists in various specialties, such as bricklayers, electricians, plumbers and others.
- Information technology (IT). The IT sector is actively developing, and companies are looking for programmers, system administrators, and other specialists.
- Healthcare. Medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, are in demand in various regions of the country.
- Hotel and restaurant business and tourism. Increased tourist traffic creates a need for staff for hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies.
- Transportation and logistics. Truck drivers, freight forwarders and other logistics professionals are in demand.
Single residence and work permit in Slovakia for Argentine citizens
A single work permit in Slovakia is a document that entitles Argentines to work in the country. It is a simplified form of permit that combines a residence permit and a work permit. This permit is required for those who want to work in Slovakia and intend to stay in the country for more than 90 days.
1. Finding a job
Sign a preliminary employment contract or receive an official job offer from a Slovak employer.
2. Your employer reports the vacancy
Your future employer must report the vacancy to the relevant Office of Labour, Social Affairs and Family (Úrad práce) at least 20 working days before your application for temporary residence.
3. Assessment of the vacancy by the Labour Office
The Labour Office will assess whether the position can be filled by a candidate registered in the local Unemployed Job Seekers Register.
If the vacancy is not filled within 20 working days by a candidate listed in the Job Seekers Register, your employer can issue you a written promise of employment or sign an employment contract with you.
4. Submit your application for temporary residence (single permit)
- You should submit your application at the Slovak embassy in the country of your citizenship or the country of your residence.
- In special cases, such as if you are not subject to visa requirements or already have a valid residence permit in another EU country, you can submit your application to the Foreign Police Department in Slovakia.
Documents required to obtain a single work permit
- Completed application form (in Slovak)
- Valid foreign passport
- Employment contract or written promise of employment
- Proof of education or professional qualification (for regulated professions)
- Certificate of no criminal record
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation in Slovakia
- Proof of financial means to cover living expenses
- Application fee: from 165.50 euros to 170 euros
5. Payment of the application fee
The fee for applying for the single work and residence permit is:
- €165.50 if the application is submitted at the Foreign Police Department.
- €170 if the application is submitted at the Slovak embassy.
6. Processing your application
After submitting your application and receiving confirmation from the Labour Office, your application will be processed, and you will receive your single permit for residence and work in Slovakia.
Validity period
A single permit is issued for a period of up to two years with the possibility of multiple extensions.
Work permit in Slovakia for Argentines
This option is suitable for those who already have temporary residence in Slovakia for another purpose (e.g. family reunification) and want to start working.
Step 1: Find an employer
Sign an employment contract or receive a written job offer.
Step 2: The employer reports the vacancy
The employer has to report the vacancy to the Labor Office 10 working days before you apply for a permit.
Step 3: Apply for a work permit
You can submit it in person at the relevant Labor Office.
Documents required:
- A copy of your valid residence permit
- Copy of the employment contract
- A copy of your passport
- Proof of education or qualifications (if required)
Step 4: Obtain a work permit
If everything is in order, the work permit will be issued for a period of up to 2 years (depending on the length of the employment contract).
Important: this permit does not give you the right to reside, it is only valid if you already have a residence permit in the country.
Validity of a work permit
- A work permit is issued for a maximum period of two years with the possibility of extension.
- The validity period is related to the duration of your employment contract.
- Unlike a one-time permit, the application for a work permit is free of charge.
Work visa in Slovakia for Argentines
To get a legal job and stay in Slovakia for a while, Argentine citizens must apply for a D visa. It’s made for those planning long-term employment.
How can Argentine citizens apply for a work visa to Slovakia?
- First, get a work permit.
- Then apply for a type D work visa through the Slovak embassy in your country of residence.
- Gather and submit all required documents (fingerprints may be taken).
- Pay the visa fee — around €99 for a long-term visa.
- Wait for processing — usually 2 to 3 weeks.
- Once approved, you’ll get your visa for the period specified.
What documents do Argentine citizens need for a work visa to Slovakia?
Here’s a list of what Argentines need to apply for a work visa to Slovakia:
- Filled-out application form
- Two recent passport photos
- A valid passport (must be issued in the last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond your Schengen departure, and have 2 blank visa pages)
- ID and residence permit (if living in a country different from your citizenship)
- Employment contract or written offer from a Slovak employer
- Work permit (if required)
- Health insurance
- Police clearance certificate (no criminal record)
- Proof of financial means
- Proof of accommodation in Slovakia
How long does it take to get a Slovak visa?
On average, getting a visa to Slovakia takes about 10 to 30 calendar days. The exact time can vary depending on the country where you apply.
Short-term work in Slovakia
If you travel to Slovakia for employment purposes, you can get a job for a short period of time. Usually, short-term work lasts up to three months. For short-term work, you need to obtain a Schengen visa for work in Slovakia (up to 90 days).
A Schengen work visa C is issued for short-term employment, which involves staying in Slovakia for up to 90 days within six months.
How can you apply for a Slovak work visa?
- Search for an employer in Slovakia. Find a Slovak employer willing to hire you.
- Obtaining a work permit. Your employer has to apply for a work permit for you. This involves submitting the necessary documents to the relevant office of the Slovak Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs and Family. The procedure can take from 30 to 90 days.
- Applying for a national visa of category C. After obtaining a work permit, you can apply for a national visa at the Slovak embassy or consulate in your home country. The required documents include.
- Waiting for the decision. Visa application processing can take from 30 to 60 days. It is recommended to apply in advance to avoid delays.
- Entering Slovakia and applying for temporary residence. After obtaining a visa and arriving in Slovakia, you need to apply for a temporary residence permit in order to work at the Foreign Police office. This permit is usually issued for a period of up to two years with the possibility of extension.
Documents required to obtain a work visa for work in Slovakia
- Application form
- One photo
- A passport that must be valid for at least three months after the date of your last departure from the Schengen area. In addition, the passport must be issued within the last 10 years and contain at least two free “visa pages”
- National identity card and residence permit/visa (if the country of residence and citizenship are different)
- Medical insurance. The insurance must cover at least 30,000 euros
- Proof of accommodation (Invitation/sponsorship from the host party if you will be staying with someone; document from the accommodation provider or proof of payment for the hotel)
- Proof of employment
- Proof of financial resources - bank/credit card statement covering at least the previous three months
How long does it take to get a visa?
The average visa processing time is 3-10 calendar days. It depends on your country of application.
Visa fee
When applying for a Slovak visa for work/business, each applicant must pay a visa fee. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of the visa application. The fee for a short-term work visa is EUR 66.
Seasonal work permit in Slovakia
A seasonal work permit allows foreigners to work in Slovakia only for temporary seasonal jobs such as agriculture, tourism, construction, etc. This permit is issued for a limited period and does not entitle you to permanent residence in the country.
Validity period
A seasonal permit is usually issued for a period of up to 6 months per year.
What are the requirements?
- The employer must confirm the need for seasonal workers.
- Only for seasonal work where there is a shortage of labor among local residents.
What documents are required to obtain a seasonal permit in Slovakia?
- Passport.
- Employment contract or job offer.
- Medical insurance.
- Proof of sufficient financial security.
- Other documents depending on the type of work.
What is the procedure for obtaining a work permit in Slovakia?
- Prepare all the documents for the application (as for a single permit).
- Submit an application to the local consulate or immigration office.
- Wait for the decision (approximately 30-60 days).
- Obtain a seasonal permit and start working.
Visa for seasonal work in Slovakia
If the work is up to 90 days (short-term seasonal work):
Schengen visa type C (with the note “Seasonal Work”)
- A standard short-term visa that allows you to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days.
- It must be issued for the purpose of “seasonal work”.
- It does not entitle you to any other activities other than those specified in the visa.
Documents for this visa:
- An invitation from a Slovak employer
- Work permit (issued by the Slovak Labor Office)
- Residence documents
- Medical insurance
- Foreign passport
- Photo, application form, consular fee
If the work is longer than 90 days (long-term seasonal work):
National visa type D + temporary residence permit for the purpose of seasonal work
- This is not a visa per se, but a temporary residence permit (issued by the Foreign Police in Slovakia).
- A national D visa is issued for entry, and then a temporary residence permit is issued.
Documents:
- Employment contract/offer
- Proof of accommodation
- Certificate of no criminal record
- Certificate of insurance
- Medical certificate
- Application form for temporary residence
- Payment of the fee
Slovakia can be a good choice for employment for foreigners for several reasons:
Growing economy: Slovakia has a stable economy, with a strong focus on manufacturing, automotive, IT and services. This provides a wide range of employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers.
Low cost of living: Slovakia offers a relatively low cost of living compared to many other European countries. Housing, transportation and daily expenses are generally more affordable, allowing foreigners to have a good quality of life with a reasonable income.
Central European location: Slovakia's central location in Europe opens up opportunities for business travel, networking and potential career mobility within the European Union.
Language advantage:In Slovakia, Slovak is the official language and English is widely spoken, especially in large cities and international workplaces. This makes it easier for foreigners to communicate and work in an English-speaking environment.
Skilled labor force:Slovakia has a highly skilled and educated labor force, with a strong emphasis on technical and engineering fields. This creates a competitive environment that fosters innovation and attracts foreign companies looking for skilled workers.
Government incentives:The Slovak government offers various incentives and support programs to attract foreign investment and promote economic growth. These initiatives can benefit both companies and individuals looking to start a business or work in Slovakia.
Rich cultural heritage:Slovakia has a rich cultural heritage and a beautiful natural landscape with numerous castles, mountains and thermal springs. The country offers a high quality of life with a balanced mix of work and leisure opportunities.
Security and stability:Slovakia is considered a safe and politically stable country, providing a secure environment for both residents and foreigners. The country has a low crime rate, well-developed infrastructure and a reliable healthcare system.
What are the most popular professions in Slovakia for foreign nationals?
There are several professions in Slovakia that are in high demand among foreigners:
IT and software development:Slovakia has a growing IT sector and there is a high demand for skilled IT professionals, including software developers, programmers, system administrators and cybersecurity specialists.
Machinery: Slovakia's strong automotive and manufacturing industry requires engineers with experience in mechanical, electrical, automotive, and industrial automation engineering.
Healthcare professionals: Slovakia has a shortage of certain healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and specialists in areas such as dentistry and geriatrics.
Finance and Accounting: Due to the presence of multinational companies and the growing financial sector of the country, there is a demand for financial analysts, accountants, auditors and professionals with experience in banking and finance.
Language Teachers: There is a demand for English language teachers, especially in private language schools, international schools and corporate training centers. There may also be positions available for teachers of other foreign languages, such as German or French.
Sales and Marketing: The expanding business environment in Slovakia requires professionals with strong sales and marketing skills to help companies promote their products and services and explore new markets.
Skilled workers: Skilled workers such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and welders are in demand in construction, manufacturing, and maintenance.
Tourism and Hospitality:The tourism industry in Slovakia is growing and there is a need for specialists in hotel management, hotel operations, excursions and event organization.
If you are looking for a job in Slovakia as a foreigner, there are several portals and websites that can help you find a job. Here are some popular job portals in Slovakia:
Profesia.sk (www.profesia.sk): Profesia.sk is one of the largest job portals in Slovakia, offering a wide range of job opportunities in various industries. It provides advanced search capabilities, the ability to upload your CV and personalized job alerts.
Praca.sk (www.praca.sk): Praca.sk is another well-known job portal in Slovakia, which features job openings from various sectors. It allows you to search for jobs by location, industry and keywords, and provides additional resources such as career advice and company profiles.
Expats.sk (www.expats.sk): Expats.sk is a platform specially designed for foreigners in Slovakia. It contains job listings, announcements and information on various aspects of living and working in Slovakia, meeting the needs of the international community.
JobSpin.cz (www.jobspin.cz): Although primarily focused on the Czech Republic, JobSpin.cz also includes job listings for Slovakia. It is a popular platform for English-speaking professionals, providing employment opportunities in various industries and locations.
Indeed.sk (www.indeed.sk): Indeed.sk is a global job search engine that includes job listings from various sources, including company websites, recruitment agencies, and job boards. Allows you to filter jobs by location, industry and type of work.
LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com): LinkedIn is a professional networking platform that is widely used in Slovakia. It not only provides a platform for establishing professional connections, but also contains job listings and the ability to search for jobs by location and industry.
These job portals can be valuable resources for finding employment opportunities in Slovakia. It is recommended that you create a profile, upload your updated CV and regularly check these platforms for new job openings. Additionally, networking, attending career fairs, and applying to recruitment agencies can also enhance your job search efforts.
Starting a business in Slovakia for a foreigner consists of the following steps:
Research and business idea: Conduct thorough market research to understand the demand for your product or service in Slovakia. Identify your target market, competitors, and potential challenges. Develop a solid business idea that meets the needs of the local market.
Juridical structure:Select the appropriate legal structure for your business, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (s.r.o.) or branch office;
Business Plan:Create a comprehensive business plan that outlines your company's goals, target market, marketing strategies, financial projections, and operational details. A well-prepared business plan is essential for obtaining financing and guiding your business activities.
Business registration:Register your business with the relevant authorities. This includes obtaining a trade license, tax identification number and registration in the Commercial Register. Visit a district office or contact the Slovak Business Agency (SBA) for advice on the registration process.
Ways to submit an application for registration of a company in the Commercial Register:
- In electronic form using the service Application for registration, change or deletion of data in the Commercial Register, for which you need to download the form (Form 7 - available in Slovak only) from the website of the Ministry of Justice of the Slovak Republic and sign it with a qualified electronic signature. All attachments to the application must also be signed with a qualified electronic signature.
In this case, a 50% discount is applied, i.e. the fee is 150 euros.
- Through a single point of contact - PSC.
If you apply for registration in the Commercial Register at the PSC, you can also apply for company registration at the Tax Office.
Conditions for registration
The founders (participants) of the company must not have any tax arrears or arrears in payment of contributions to the Social Insurance Agency. The registration court will refuse to register a company if its founder is included in the list of debtors.
Terms
The period for registering a commercial company in the Commercial Register is 2 business days. Companies are entitled to start business activities from the date of registration in the Commercial Register.
Capital and financing: Determine the financial needs for starting a business. Consider sources of funding such as personal savings, loans, grants, or venture capital. Prepare financial projections and a budget to demonstrate the viability of your business to potential investors or lenders.
Location and premises:Find a suitable location for your business. Consider factors such as accessibility, proximity to customers and suppliers, and affordability. Depending on the type of business you have, you may need to rent a commercial space or lease an office.
Permits and licenses:Determine which permits and licenses are required for your business. These may vary depending on the nature of your business, such as food handling permits, health and safety certifications, or professional licenses. Consult with your local authorities or the Slovak Business Agency for the necessary permits.
Hiring employees: If your business needs employees, familiarize yourself with the Slovak labor laws, including employment contracts, working hours, and payroll regulations. Consider whether you need to engage an HR consultant or legal counsel to handle employment-related issues.
Taxation and accounting:Learn about the tax obligations and accounting requirements for businesses in Slovakia. Familiarize yourself with the VAT (value added tax) system, corporate income tax, and employer contributions. It is advisable to consult an accountant or tax advisor to ensure compliance with the Slovak tax laws.
Networking and support:Build a network of contacts in the local business community. Attend industry events, join business associations, and participate in networking events to build connections and gain information. Seek help from organizations such as the Slovak Business Agency or local chambers of commerce for advice and support.
I am a foreigner and I want to start a business in the Slovak Republic. What other conditions do I have to fulfill?
The business activities of foreigners in the territory of the Slovak Republic are regulated by Act No. 513/1991 of Coll. as amended and supplemented - the Commercial Code. Foreigners may conduct business activities in the territory of the Slovak Republic under the same conditions and to the same extent as citizens of the Slovak Republic, unless otherwise provided by law.
Other conditions that entrepreneurs must meet are determined by law:
- Law No. 455/1991 Coll. on entrepreneurial activity,
- Law No. 431/2002 Coll. on Accounting,
- Law No. 595/2003 Coll. on income tax,
- Law No. 222/2004 Coll. on Value Added Tax, etc., from which an entrepreneur has various obligations.
When starting a business in Slovakia, several portals and resources can provide valuable information and support for foreigners. Here are some useful portals for foreigners interested in starting a business in Slovakia:
Invest in Slovakia (www.investslovakia.org): This official website, managed by the Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency (SARIO), offers comprehensive information on investing and starting a business in Slovakia. It contains detailed information on investment opportunities, business sectors, legal framework and incentives available to foreign entrepreneurs.
BusinessInfo.sk (www.businessinfo.sk): BusinessInfo.sk is an online portal that offers a wide range of resources and practical information for starting and running a business in Slovakia. The portal provides information on legal requirements, permits, taxation, business registration and intellectual property rights.
Slovak Business Agency (www.sbagency.sk): The Slovak Business Agency (SBA) is a government organization that supports business development in Slovakia. Their website contains useful resources, including information on starting a business, available grants and subsidies, business support services, and contact details for SBA regional offices.
Single Contact Center (www.slovensko.sk/en): The Single Contact Center (SCC) is an online portal that allows businesses to access various administrative procedures and services in Slovakia. It provides information and assistance related to business registration, licenses, permits and other administrative requirements.
Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (www.sopk.sk): The Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SOPK) represents the interests of businesses in Slovakia. The website offers valuable resources, including information on business support services, networking events, industry reports and business opportunities.
Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic (www.economy.gov.sk): The Ministry of Economy website provides up-to-date information on business regulations, economic policy, investment opportunities and initiatives aimed at supporting entrepreneurship and foreign investment in Slovakia.
Expats.sk (www.expats.sk): Expats.sk is a platform specifically designed for foreigners in Slovakia. It offers practical information and resources for foreigners, including advice on starting a business, legal requirements, networking opportunities, and community forums.
These portals can provide important information and resources for foreigners interested in starting a business in Slovakia.
Slovakia offers a business visa that allows foreigners to travel to the country for business purposes:
Purpose: A business visa is intended for persons wishing to conduct business in Slovakia. This includes attending business meetings, negotiations, conferences, exhibitions or exploring business opportunities in the country.
Applying for a visa:To apply for a business visa, you need to submit an application to the Slovak embassy or consulate in your country of residence or country of stay. The application should be accompanied by the necessary documents, such as a completed application form, a valid passport, an invitation letter from a Slovak business partner or organization, proof of travel insurance and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Visa-free entry: Citizens of the EU/EEA countries can enter Slovakia for business purposes without a visa.
Slovak labor law is designed to regulate the relationship between employers and employees, ensuring fair and equal working conditions:
Employment contracts: Employment contracts in Slovakia can be concluded for a fixed term or for an indefinite period. The contract must contain essential terms and conditions, such as position, working hours, remuneration, contract duration and notice period for termination of the contract. Both parties must comply with the terms and conditions set forth in the contract.
Working hours:The standard working hours in Slovakia are 40 hours per week, with a maximum of 8 hours per day. Overtime is regulated by special legislation and must be compensated either in cash or with time off. Employees are entitled to regular breaks and rest periods during the working day.
Minimum wage:The minimum wage applies to all employees and is determined based on factors such as age and qualifications. Employers must ensure that their employees are paid at least the minimum wage.
Effective January 01, 2023, the minimum wage in Slovakia was revised. The minimum wage has been increased from EUR 3.71 to EUR 4.023 per hour and from EUR 646.00 to EUR 700.00 per month.
Vacation rights: Employees in Slovakia are entitled to various types of leave. This includes annual paid vacation, which usually ranges from 20 to 25 days per year, depending on the length of employment. Employees are also entitled to sick leave, maternity leave, parental leave and other types of special leave as defined by law.
Social security and benefits: Employers are required to pay social security contributions on behalf of their employees, which covers medical insurance, social insurance and unemployment insurance. Employees are entitled to various social benefits, including health insurance and unemployment benefits.
Workplace health and safety: Employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe and healthy working environment for their employees, which includes ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety regulations, conducting risk assessments and taking measures to prevent accidents and occupational risks.
Termination of employment: Termination of employment in Slovakia may be by voluntary resignation, by mutual agreement or at the initiative of one of the parties. There are certain notice periods that must be observed depending on the duration of the employment relationship. Termination of employment without proper notice or without a valid reason may be considered unfair.
Employee rights and protections: Employees in Slovakia have certain rights and protections under the labor law. These include protection against discrimination, protection of privacy, protection against unfair dismissal, and the right to collective bargaining and representation through trade unions.
If you are a foreigner looking for a job in Slovakia, here are some tips to help you with your job search:
Explore the labor market: Get to know the labor market in Slovakia. Research the industries that are booming, the companies that are hiring, and the skills and qualifications that are in demand. This will help you to target your job search effectively.
Improve your language skills: Although English is commonly spoken in certain industries and large cities, knowledge of Slovak can significantly improve your chances of employment. Take the time to learn Slovak or improve your language skills to increase your chances of getting a job.
Networking: Networking is very important in the Slovak labor market. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and network with local professionals in your field. Networking and establishing relationships can lead to employment opportunities and valuable information.
Prepare your application: Prepare your application materials, including your resume and cover letter, according to the specific requirements of each job you are applying for. Emphasize relevant skills, experience and qualifications that match the job description.
Research employers: Before applying or going for an interview, thoroughly research potential employers. Get to know the company's culture, values, and latest news. This will help you prepare your resume and demonstrate your interest in their organization.
Use online job portals:Use online job portals and websites that specialize in the Slovak labor market. Popular platforms such as Profesia.sk, Praca.sk, and LinkedIn often contain job listings in Slovakia. Check these portals regularly for new job postings and set up job alerts to stay informed.
Prepare for the interview:Study the general practice of conducting interviews and expectations from them in Slovakia. Be prepared to answer questions about your qualifications, experience and motivation to work in the country. Emphasize any cross-cultural experience or adaptability that can demonstrate your ability to work in a diverse environment.
Get your work permits and visas sorted out:Make sure you have the necessary work permits or visas to work legally in Slovakia. Familiarize yourself with immigration rules and requirements.
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