Choose an agency with a valid licence
A large advance payment, a “guaranteed visa” or placement through an unlicensed private agency is a high-risk signal.
single permit
No separate work permit: you apply for temporary residence for the purpose of employment, usually at a Slovak embassy, fee 170 euros. The employer reports the vacancy to the labour office at least 20 working days ahead; if no local jobseeker is found in that time, it issues a promise of employment or signs a contract.
home-affairs.ec.europa.eu, 01.04.2025timelines from 15 July 2026
Under Act 128/2026 the foreign police confirms that the conditions are met within 60 days of a complete application and issues the residence document within the next 30. Someone granted a national visa who then applies for residence for work must stay in the same position.
welcometoslovakia.sk, 29.07.2026drivers’ visa in 2026
For bus and lorry drivers in international transport from third countries: up to 5,000 national visas valid up to a year instead of 180 days, granted until 31 December 2026 with no reissue; in force since 1 January 2026.
transport.sk, 06.01.2026Uzbekistan is on the list
Drivers’ visas go to nationals of the countries on the government’s list; Uzbekistan has been on it since 2023, alongside Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and the Balkan countries.
employment.gov.sk, 29.03.2023