Expanding globally is an exciting time for your company, but it also comes with certain challenges, such as figuring out how to get a Bosnia and Herzegovina work visa for employees.
Types of work visas in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina requires 2 things from international workers — a work permit and a temporary residence permit. Currently, Bosnia and Herzegovina is trying to become a member state of the European Union (EU), and the country has a visa policy similar to the EU. Citizens of several countries may enter visa free and stay up to 90 days, so we suggest consulting official government websites for an updated list of the applicable countries.
Individuals wanting to stay in the country for more than 3 months must apply for a temporary residence permit from their local field office at the Service for Foreigners’ Affairs (SFA), an independent administrative unit within the Ministry of Security. Individuals have to submit their temporary residence permit application at least 15 days before their 3-month visa-free period ends. A temporary residence permit may be issued for a period of up to 1 year, unless otherwise determined by the residence permit.
Requirements to obtain Bosnia and Herzegovina work visas
The country has numerous work visa and permit requirements, including:
- Information about the employee, including formal names, date of birth, place of residence, and more.
- Information about the employee’s job, including job type and working conditions.
- Information about the company, such as the registration number.
- A written explanation about why the employer hired an international employee over a local individual.
- The international employee’s graduation certificate translated into one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s official languages.
The government also needs certified documents, including the employee’s passport and graduation certificate, as well as the company’s tax ID and proof of solvency. Employers must also provide proof of payment of the administrative expenses of the Bosnia and Herzegovina work visa or permit.
Application process
Employers need to apply for a work permit on behalf of employees. Doing so is a lengthy process, so we recommend starting early. Keep in mind that Bosnia and Herzegovina also has quotas for work permits that apply to international employees in certain occupations for one year. The Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina sets the annual quotas per the country’s migration policy and labor market situation. Priority for work permits goes to international workers who already have a temporary residence permit for family reunification.
If the company meets the quota, the next step is to apply for a work permit in Bosnia and Herzegovina with the country’s Employment Service. Then, the Federal Employment Agency will approve or deny the permit. If the application gets approved, employees can then apply through their local embassy or consulate. Work permits are usually temporary and active for up to a year, after which employees must re-apply.
Other important considerations
Certain professionals may be exempt from obtaining a Bosnia and Herzegovina work permit. For example, founders of a company or enterprise performing certain tasks that do not have employment characteristics or do not exceed 3 months of service do not need a work permit. However, a founder who is also a manager and receives a salary must obtain a work permit to stay compliant.
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