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Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), located in the heart of the Balkans, is increasingly drawing attention from skilled workers and foreign investors. If you plan to work legally in BiH, you must obtain a work permit. This guide explains the process, legal requirements, necessary documentation, and how to navigate it efficiently without incurring unnecessary delays or complications.
Overview of the Work Permit System
Work permits in Bosnia and Herzegovina are regulated by the Law on the Movement and Stay of Aliens and Asylum and by entity-level labor laws. The permit is usually tied to a specific employer and position. There are two key administrative regions with authority:
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Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH)
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Republika Srpska (RS)
The process and responsible institutions differ slightly between these two entities.
Who Needs a Work Permit?
All foreign nationals intending to work in BiH, except for specific exemptions (such as diplomats, short-term consultants, or individuals with permanent residence), must obtain a work permit before starting employment.
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Work Permit
1. Secure a Job Offer
Before applying, you must receive a formal job offer from a registered employer in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The employer will act as your sponsor and initiate part of the application process.
2. Employer Applies for Labor Market Test (if required)
In many cases, your employer must first apply for a labor market test at the Employment Service in the relevant entity (FBiH or RS). This test determines if there are local candidates available for the role.
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If no suitable local candidate is found, the employer will receive approval to hire a foreign worker.
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Some high-demand professions may be exempt from this test.
3. Collect Required Documents
You and your employer will need to submit the following documents:
From the Employer:
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Copy of the company’s registration and tax number
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Justification for hiring a foreign worker
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Results of the labor market test (if applicable)
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Employment contract
From the Employee:
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Valid passport (with at least six months of validity)
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Curriculum Vitae
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Academic qualifications and proof of experience
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Health insurance
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Proof of clean criminal record (from home country)
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Medical certificate (issued in BiH)
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Two passport-size photos
All foreign documents must be officially translated into Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian and may require apostille or legalization.
4. Submit Application
The employer submits the work permit application to the Employment Service of FBiH or the Republic Employment Office of RS, depending on the location.
Processing time varies but typically ranges from two to four weeks.
5. Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit
Once the work permit is approved, you must apply for a temporary residence permit at the Service for Foreigners' Affairs.
You will need to submit:
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Work permit
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Valid passport
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Proof of accommodation in BiH
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Health insurance certificate
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Proof of sufficient financial means
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Application form and biometric data
Temporary residence permits are typically granted for one year, renewable.
Tips to Navigate the Process Efficiently
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Apply through your employer: Employers are responsible for initiating the application and often provide administrative support throughout the process.
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Avoid unverified intermediaries: You can complete most steps independently or with your employer’s HR department to ensure transparency and avoid unofficial service providers.
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Use public institutions: Services like medical certificates and document verification can often be obtained through public offices.
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Prepare your documents in advance: Translate and legalize documents before arriving in Bosnia and Herzegovina to avoid delays.
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Double-check all submissions: Incomplete applications often cause delays. Review checklists carefully and ensure every requirement is met.
Legal Exemptions from Work Permit Requirement
The following individuals are generally exempt from obtaining a work permit, though registration with the authorities is still required:
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Holders of permanent residence
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Refugees and asylum seekers under special protection
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Representatives of international organizations
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Accredited journalists
Validity and Renewal
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Work permits are usually issued for up to one year, renewable depending on the employment contract.
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Applications for renewal should be submitted at least 30 days before the current permit expires.
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After five years of continuous legal residence, you may be eligible for permanent residency, subject to separate requirements.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a work permit in Bosnia and Herzegovina is a structured process requiring employer cooperation and careful attention to documentation. By understanding the steps involved and avoiding unverified services, you can complete the process efficiently and legally, paving the way for stable employment in the country.
May 2, 2025
