Non-EU nationals must wait longer to bring family members

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Most non-EU nationals working in Slovenia are now required to work in the country for a full year before they can bring family members to join them.

What does the change mean? The change marks a departure from the old rules, which allowed family members of non-EU nationals working in Slovenia to join them immediately. There are exceptions, however, for some high-skilled workers.

• Implementation timeframe: The change went into effect Jan. 1.
• Visas/permits affected: Residence permits for family members.
• Who is affected: Non-EU nationals working in Slovenia and their family members.
• Business impact: The change may provide a disincentive to some non-EU nationals who are considering taking jobs in Slovenia.

Background: The change is one of a number of amendments to the Act on Residence of Foreign Nationals and on Employment Services.

Several categories of foreign workers are exempt from the new rule, including EU Blue Card holders, researchers in higher education and those conducting work deemed to be in Slovenia’s interest. Nationals of EU and EEA countries, with the exception of Switzerland, are not affected by the change.

BAL Analysis: While the change may provide a disincentive for some workers to take jobs in Slovenia, there are important exemptions for EU Blue Card holders and other high-skilled workers.

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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