The issuance of the initial Single Residence and Work Permit for foreigners in the Republic of Slovenia is regulated by the Foreigners Act (ZTuj-2). The single permit enables foreigners to legally reside in Slovenia and simultaneously be employed by a specific employer.

Where to Submit an Application for the First Single Permit

A foreigner must submit the application for the first temporary residence permit:

• At a diplomatic representation or consulate of the Republic of Slovenia abroad;
• At the competent authority within the Republic of Slovenia, when permitted by law (Article 34 of ZTuj-2);
• Alternatively, the employer may submit the application to the competent authority within Slovenia on behalf of the foreign worker.

Required Documentation for the Single Permit

The application for a single permit must include the following attachments:

• A photograph of the foreigner or a reference number from an electronic photo repository (photo size and format as required for a passport);
• Valid passport of the foreigner or a certified photocopy (if certification occurs abroad, it must be additionally certified for use in Slovenia – either with an Apostille or double verification by the competent embassy and Ministry of Foreign Affairs);
• Proof of adequate health insurance (covering at least emergency services), unless the foreigner is mandatorily insured in Slovenia (proof is required only for the minimum entry period, as subsequent insurance will typically result from employment);
• Evidence of sufficient financial means for subsistence (this could be the salary from the employment relationship – thus, the employment contract may serve as proof);
• Original criminal record certificate from the foreigner’s home country, no older than 90 days, with certification valid for use in Slovenia (Apostille or double verification);
• Employment contract signed by the employer (not by the employee);
• Proof of appropriate education, professional qualification, or other specific conditions required by the employer (depending on the employer’s conditions);
• Declaration by the employer regarding the provision of accommodation for the foreigner (stating whether accommodation will be provided or not).

The foreigner must submit fingerprints and a signature at the competent embassy on the appropriate form. Additionally, it is mandatory to pay an administrative fee.

Special Requirements for New Employers

If the employer hiring the foreigner has been registered for less than six months, the application must additionally include:

• A declaration stating that the employer has invested at least EUR 50,000 into the business activity employing the foreigner (according to the second paragraph of Article 17 of the Employment, Self-employment, and Work of Foreigners Act).

Employers registered longer must demonstrate active business operations through sufficient turnover or at least one full-time employee during the past six months. These employers cannot prove active business operations through investment.

Duration and Delivery of the Permit

The initial single permit is issued for a maximum of one year unless otherwise specified by law. Delivery of the permit is carried out personally to the foreigner or their legal representative:

• At the competent authority within Slovenia (if documents were submitted there and/or fingerprints have already been provided);
• At the diplomatic representation or consulate of Slovenia abroad (if the foreigner applied there, according to paragraph 3 of Article 88 of ZTuj-2).

Conclusion

Obtaining the initial single residence and work permit requires precisely prepared documentation and thorough knowledge of legal requirements. To ensure accuracy of the procedure and enhance the likelihood of success, assistance from a specialized lawyer is recommended.

* Finding yourself in need of legal services in Slovenia and looking for a law firm in Ljubljana, consider contacting us using our contact details as published on our web page. A qualified law firm can provide you with legal advice and representation – helping you navigate the complexities of Slovenian law and ensuring that your rights are protected. You can find more information on legal acts in Slovenia on the official pages of the Slovenian government. More legal topics can be found on our law firm publications page.