Ljubljana, April 2026 – The Ministry of Labor, Family, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities (MDDSZ) has officially extended the validity of the decree that allows for faster employment of foreigners. Originally set to expire on April 30, the accelerated procedures will now remain in effect until October 31, 2026.
This extension is a strategic move to address the ongoing labor shortage in several key industries in Slovenia. It simplifies the administrative path for foreign workers already legally residing in the country who wish to enter the Slovenian labor market.
What Does This Mean for You?
The main advantage of this decree is the simplified recruitment process. For certain professions, the Employment Service of the Republic of Slovenia (ZRSZ) can issue a permit without conducting a “labor market test”. This means that they do not first check whether there are suitable domestic candidates available, which significantly shortens the waiting period.
Furthermore, according to the current legislation, a foreigner may start working as soon as the administrative unit (UE – the local government office where the application for a residence and work permit is processed) issues a certificate on the submitted application for a single residence and work permit, provided that the ZRSZ has given its consent.
Key industries and professions covered
Expedited processing is available for a wide range of industries, including
Agriculture and forestry: Farmers, forestry workers, and technicians.
Manufacturing: Pharmacists, chemical and food technicians, mechanics, toolmakers, and butchers.
Construction and Engineering: Electrical engineers, civil engineers, mechanical engineers, and electromechanical engineers.
Transportation and Logistics: Heavy truck and tractor-trailer drivers.
Hospitality and Tourism: Cooks, waiters, hotel receptionists and cleaners.
IT and Communications: Software developers, application analysts, data specialists, and cybersecurity experts.
Health and Social Care: Specialists, General Practitioners, Nurses, Nursing Assistants and Physiotherapists.
This six-month extension provides businesses with much-needed flexibility and allows for better planning during peak seasons in tourism, agriculture and construction.
About SIBIZ
At SIBIZ, we specialize in providing comprehensive support to business professionals, corporate clients and individuals navigating the Slovenian business environment. Our team provides expert guidance on business immigration, employment procedures and regulatory compliance to ensure a smooth transition into the Slovenian market.
Whether you are an employer looking for talent or a professional seeking new opportunities, we are here to help you succeed.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: The changes described below reflect a PROPOSED LEGISLATIVE DRAFT published by the Ministry of the Interior (MNZ) for the Foreigners Act (ZTuj-2J). The public consultation period has been extended to August 26, 2026. These provisions are not yet final law and remain subject to legislative debate and parliamentary approval. This legislative proposal introduces […]
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