Slovakia is set to implement significant changes to its immigration and labor policies, introducing 120-day national visas and tougher work permit regulations effective July 15, 2026. The new rules aim to attract highly skilled professionals while curbing low-skilled labor migration and addressing labor market needs.
New 120-Day National Visas
Starting July 15, Slovakia will offer 120-day national visas (type D) for third-country nationals seeking employment in the country. These visas allow holders to stay for up to 120 days while they search for a job or complete administrative procedures for a work permit. The measure is designed to facilitate the entry of skilled workers in sectors facing labor shortages, such as IT, engineering, and healthcare.
According to the Slovak Ministry of Interior, the visa is part of a broader effort to streamline immigration for qualified workers. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds. The visa does not automatically grant work authorization; holders must still obtain a work permit or confirm employment within the 120-day period.
Stricter Work Permit Conditions
Alongside the visa introduction, Slovakia is tightening work permit rules for low-skilled workers. The new regulations impose stricter requirements for employers hiring non-EU nationals, including mandatory labor market tests to prove that no local or EU worker is available for the position. The government has also increased penalties for employers who violate immigration laws, with fines up to €10,000 per unauthorized worker.
These changes aim to reduce reliance on foreign low-skilled labor and encourage automation and upskilling of the domestic workforce. The Ministry of Labor noted that the number of work permits issued to low-skilled workers has risen by 15% in the past year, prompting the need for stricter oversight.
Impact on Businesses and Workers
Businesses in Slovakia have expressed mixed reactions. The American Chamber of Commerce in Slovakia welcomed the 120-day visa for skilled workers but warned that stricter permit rules could hurt sectors like manufacturing and logistics, which depend on foreign labor. “While we support attracting talent, the new rules may create bottlenecks for companies needing immediate workers,” said a chamber spokesperson.
For workers, the changes offer new opportunities for skilled professionals but pose challenges for those in low-skilled roles. The Slovak government plans to monitor the impact and adjust policies as needed. According to official data, Slovakia currently has over 80,000 foreign workers, with the largest groups from Ukraine, Serbia, and Vietnam.
Implementation and Next Steps
The new visa and permit rules take effect on July 15, 2026. Applications for the 120-day national visa can be submitted at Slovak embassies and consulates abroad. The government has also launched an online portal for employers to register job vacancies and apply for labor market tests. Further reforms are expected in 2027, including a points-based system for skilled migrants.
