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3 ways to enter

Slovakia visas

Slovakia work visa

Citizens of European Union single market countries can work in Slovakia without a visa. Slovakia also permits work during visa-free stays for all visa-waiver nationals.

Ways to get a Slovakia work visa

  1. Work during a visa-free short stay

    No visa needed

    All nationals covered by the listed short-stay visa waiver.

    Stay
    Up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen Area.

  3. Temporary work for an existing employer under the Van Der Elst rule

    Other permit

    Nationals of countries outside the European Union single market who are employed within it and temporarily work in another single market country for the same employer, under certain conditions.

Who needs it

Other workers must meet the applicable work and stay requirements. Detailed Slovak work visa requirements are not specified.

Who doesn't

European Union single market citizens do not need a visa to work. All visa-waiver nationals are listed as permitted to work during their visa-free stay in Slovakia.

Good to know

  • Work during a visa-free visit remains subject to the short-stay time limit.
  • Longer stays generally need a long-stay visa or residence permit.
  • Detailed work permit procedures are not specified.
  • A separate working holiday route is available for listed nationalities.

Questions

Do I need a work visa for Slovakia?

Other workers must meet the applicable work and stay requirements. Detailed Slovak work visa requirements are not specified. European Union single market citizens do not need a visa to work. All visa-waiver nationals are listed as permitted to work during their visa-free stay in Slovakia.

What are the ways to get a work visa for Slovakia?

There are 3 options: Work during a visa-free short stay (no visa at all); Work under freedom of movement (no visa at all); Temporary work for an existing employer under the Van Der Elst rule (a special permit).

Who can go to Slovakia without a work visa?

All nationals covered by the listed short-stay visa waiver. Citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.

How long can I stay on a Slovakia work visa?

For visa-waiver visitors: up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen Area.

What rules do I have to follow on a Slovakia work visa?

Work during a visa-free visit remains subject to the short-stay time limit. Longer stays generally need a long-stay visa or residence permit.

Does my passport change whether I need a work visa for Slovakia?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Slovakia visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a work visa for Slovakia be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Slovakia work visa rules?

On Slovakia's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my work visa once I am in Slovakia?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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