📘 Work Permits for Foreign Workers

Foreign nationals who wish to work in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) must obtain both a work permit and a temporary residence permit.

❓ Who Needs a Work Permit?

A work permit is required for:

• ✔️ Foreigners employed by a company registered in BiH.
• ✔️ Most types of workers (exceptions may apply for seasonal workers or specific cases).

Exceptions:

• ✔️ Highly Qualified Workers – Those with advanced degrees or high salaries may work under special authorization.
• ✔️ EU Blue Card Holders – May follow a different process.

📑 Who Submits the Work Permit Application?

📌 Typically, the employer in BiH submits the application.

📌 In some cases (freelancers, consultants), the applicant may apply independently.

🏛 Where to Apply?

• 📍 Federation of BiH: Cantonal Employment Services.
• 📍 Republika Srpska: Republic Employment Bureau.
• 📍 Brčko District: Brčko Employment Bureau.

🛂 Step-by-Step Application Process

A. 🔎 Pre-Application Checks

• ✅ Quota Check – BiH sets annual work permit quotas.
• ✅ Labor Market Test – Employers must prove no qualified local candidates are available.

B. 📋 Work Permit Application

Required Documents:

• 📑 Completed Application Form (OZ-1 for new applications, OZ-2 for renewal).
• 📜 Employer’s Registration Documents.
• 📝 Employment Contract.
• 💰 Proof of Employer’s Solvency.
• 🛂 Valid Passport (at least 3 months beyond permit duration).
• 🏥 Medical Certificate (not older than 3 months).
• 🚔 Criminal Record Certificate (if required).
• 💳 Payment of Administrative Fees (100-150 BAM).

C. ⏳ Work Permit Processing

• ⏳ Processing Time: 15-60 days.
• 📆 Validity: Up to 12 months, renewable annually.

D. 🏠 Temporary Residence Application

Once the work permit is granted, the foreign worker must apply for a temporary residence permit.

Required Documents:

• 📄 Copy of Work Permit.
• 📝 Completed Residence Permit Application.
• 🛂 Passport & Recent Photograph.
• 🏠 Proof of Accommodation.
• 💰 Proof of Financial Means.
• 🏥 Health Insurance.
• 🚔 Criminal Record Certificate (not older than 6 months).

📌 Processing Time: 30-90 days.

🔄 Renewal & Deadlines

• 📌 Work Permit: Valid for up to 12 months, renewal should be initiated at least 15 days before expiry.
• 📌 Temporary Residence: Usually valid for 1 year, renewal must be done on time.

👷 Seasonal & Short-Term Work

• 🔹 Short-term and seasonal permits (3-6 months) have simplified requirements.
• 📌 Required Documents:
  • ✔️ Seasonal Work Contract.
  • ✔️ Proof of Accommodation & Insurance.
  • ✔️ Passport & Medical Certificate.

⚠️ Penalties for Non-Compliance

• 🚨 Fines: 300-1,500 BAM for working without a permit.
• 🚨 Deportation & Entry Bans: Serious violations can result in a 1-5 year re-entry ban.

🏁 Key Takeaways

• ✅ Ensure all documents are complete before applying.
• ✅ Apply on time, especially if you require a D-type visa to enter BiH.
• ✅ Consult experts if you fall into a special category (highly skilled, seasonal work, etc.).

📩 Need Assistance?

💬 Need help with your work permit or residence application? Contact our experts today!

📩 Email: info@europto.com

📞 Phone: +34 625 417 090