The globalization of companies has led to a sharp rise in the hiring of foreign workers, especially in industries facing talent shortages. But the process of obtaining a work permits [radne dozvole] for foreign workers can be complicated, with many steps and potential obstacles this guide is designed to guide HR professionals, managers, and company directors through the application process, avoid common mistakes, and boost their recruitment efforts.
Steps in obtaining a work permits [radne dozvole] for foreign workers
1. Understand the required documentation
The first step in obtaining work permits [radna dozvola] is to gather the necessary documents. Each country has specific laws, but general requirements typically include:
Travel Availability
Foreign worker passports must be valid for a minimum of six months after the intended period of validity.
Employment contract
A formal offer of employment, detailing roles and responsibilities, signed by the employer and the employee.
Evidence of Eligibility
Academic transcripts, certificates, or evidence of experience relevant to the position.
Health Insurance
Evidence that the foreign worker is covered under a health insurance policy, provided by the employer or privately obtained.
Application Form
Application form for a full work permit and any other documents required by local labor authorities.
2. Stick to schedules and deadlines
The time frame for processing a work permits [radne dozvole] varies from country to country, ranging from a few weeks to a few months. HR departments need to be aware of this timeline to avoid hiring delays. Many countries also require a foreign worker to obtain a work permit and apply for a visa, which may extend the overall waiting period.
Average tenure
1-3 months
Expedited services
Some countries offer express services for an additional fee, reducing processing time by up to 50%.
3. Understand the cost
For foreign workers, there are various costs involved in obtaining a work permit, e.g.
Application Fees
Fees depend on the country and type of license but generally range from $100 to $1,000.
Legal costs
Employers can hire legal professionals to help with complex applications, especially for senior positions or specific jobs or industries.
Other expenses
Other expenses may include translation services, medical examinations, or travel expenses for staff.
Common challenges faced by HR departments during operations
One common challenge is delayed application processing. Delays can occur due to incomplete documentation, inefficiencies, or oversupply, especially in industries such as IT or healthcare, where there is a high demand for foreign workers.
It is important to comply with ever-changing immigration laws and visa policies. Minor paperwork checks or misunderstandings of visa requirements can result in application rejection or long delays. For example,in some jurisdictions, companies must demonstrate that they have completed local recruitment procedures before applying for a license to operate abroad.
Language barriers or unfamiliarity with local legal terms can make it difficult for HR managers to fill out applications correctly, further complicating the process.
Streamlining the process by using International recruitment agencies
International placement agencies and manpower provider agencies are valuable partners in the work permit application process. Here’s how they help:
Recruitment agencies that specialize in recruiting international workers are familiar with applying for work permits [radne dozvole] in different countries. They provide guidance on paperwork requirements, assist in completing forms, and ensure compliance with local labor laws.
By assigning responsibility to professionals for visa regulations and work permit applications, HR managers and hiring departments can focus on key tasks, Usually recruiting companies in human resources have established relationships with local immigration officials, speeding up the process.
Some agencies such as BCM Group India offer end-to-end support from talent acquisition to obtaining visas and work permits. This holistic approach ensures that foreign workers will arrive and begin working on a fully shared basis.
Tips to avoid common mistakes during the application process
1. Double-check the documents
Make sure all required documents are complete and accurate before submission. Even minor mistakes, such as an expired passport or an incomplete employment contract, can cause significant delays.
2. Stay updated with immigration policies
Work permit laws and immigration laws can change quickly. HR departments need to be informed of these changes, especially in industries that rely mainly on foreign workers.
3. Use recruitment and legal experts
Engaging international recruitment agencies or lawyers who specialize in work permits can help HR departments navigate complex issues and avoid common pitfalls.
For over 15 years, we have been supplying skilled Indian workers to countries such as Romania, Croatia, Hungary, Serbia, Finland, Sweden, and more. Our seamless integration process ensures that European industries receive the employment they need according to their specific requirements. We place over 1000 candidates annually in sectors such as manufacturing, automobile, construction, hospitality, and others. From initial candidate profiles to successfully obtaining work permits [radne dozvole], we handle everything. We also provide insurance for all selected candidates and assist with the visa process, Our team of experts takes care of the entire Visa process right from documentation to the Visa stamping.
Work permit processing takes on average 1 to 3 months, depending on the country and the specific job/industry. Some countries offer advanced processing for an additional fee.
Yes, international recruitment agencies are key players in the work permit system. They provide End-to-end assistance in gathering documentation, completing applications, and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Costs vary by country and role but generally range from $100 to $1,000, not including legal or other services such as translation or medical examinations.