Slovenia ends work permit requirements for Croatian nationals

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Slovenia has lifted work permit requirements for Croatian nationals.

What does the change mean? Slovenian employers are no longer required to apply for work permits for Croatian employees.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing. The change took effect July 1.
• Visas/permits affected: Work permits.
• Who is affected: Employers and Croatian nationals seeking work in Slovenia.
• Business impact: Companies may recruit and hire Croatians without having to sponsor them for work authorization.

Background: Croatia joined the European Union in 2013. Under transitional provisions, Slovenia opted to restrict labor access for Croatians from that point until now. Legally, Slovenia could continue to impose restrictions for another two years, but has opted not to do so. The Netherlands and the United Kingdom also recently lifted work permit requirements for Croatian nationals.

BAL Analysis: The removal of restrictions will benefit Croatian nationals and the companies that employ them in Slovenia.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Slovenia. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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