.jpeg)
Construction Work Abroad: Why Interest Is Growing
Construction work abroad is attracting an increasing number of Slovak self-employed professionals.
The reason is simple – more work opportunities, better-paid contracts, and long-term stable demand for skilled tradespeople.
However, it is not a quick shortcut to money. It is a way of working that has its own rules, requires a responsible approach, and compliance with legal obligations.
How International Projects Work
International projects are usually larger, better planned, and managed with greater time precision than smaller domestic contracts.
The following are expected:
- independence
- adherence to work procedures
- reliable performance
Those who meet these expectations secure stable work abroad without constantly searching for new projects.
Where Demand Is Highest
The highest demand is for technical and skilled trades, where experience and quality of work are decisive.
Most commonly:
- installation works
- technical installation services
- manufacturing activities
- finishing works
These sectors generate long-term contracts rather than short-term temporary jobs.
Self-Employment Means Running a Business
From a self-employed perspective, this is not employment but business activity.
Work is carried out in the form of subcontracting, with:
- clearly agreed conditions
- a precisely defined scope of work
- pre-agreed remuneration
With well-structured cooperation, projects follow one another smoothly, creating continuity of work.
How the Selection Process for Self-Employed Professionals Works
The entire cooperation process is designed to be fast, transparent, and fair.
1. Document Review
After receiving your documents (trade license, CV if applicable, and references), we assess your experience and qualifications in relation to the current project.
If there is a match, we will contact you by phone or email to clarify additional details.
2. Joint Discussion of Conditions
We then review together:
- scope and description of work
- work location
- financial terms
- start date
- duration of cooperation
All conditions are communicated clearly and in advance.
3. Contract Documentation and Start
If we reach an agreement, we prepare the contract documentation and arrange the start details.
Before deployment, all required documents must be submitted and any necessary onboarding training completed.
What Documents Do I Need to Work Abroad?
When working abroad, both personal and business documents must be prepared.
1. Basic Personal Documents
- Valid ID card (within the EU) or passport
- European Health Insurance Card
These documents are essential for legal movement and access to healthcare if necessary.
2. The Most Important Document: A1 Form (Portable Document A1)
The A1 form is issued by the Social Insurance Agency and confirms that during your work abroad you remain subject to Slovak social security legislation.
When is it required?
When you temporarily perform work in another EU/EEA/Switzerland country.
Why is it important?
Without the A1 document, you may face:
- inspections
- fines
- the obligation to pay social contributions in the country of work
The A1 is issued based on a signed contract.
3. Business-Related Documents
- Trade license / Extract from the Trade Register
(translation into English or the language of the host country is recommended) - Contract for Work / Cooperation Agreement
- Notification of cross-border service provision
Some countries (for example Austria) require prior activity notification before work begins (e.g., ZKO notification).
Conditions for Obtaining the A1 Form
To receive the document, you must meet the following conditions:
- Active trade license registered in Slovakia
- Previous business activity in Slovakia
(at least 2 invoices issued or a minimum of 2 months of active business recommended) - Temporary nature of work (usually up to 24 months)
- Continuation of business activity in Slovakia during deployment
- Paid social insurance contributions
Application Process
The application is submitted to the Social Insurance Agency:
- Electronically (recommended) via the official eForm
- In paper form by submitting a written application
The application includes:
- personal details of the self-employed person
- details of the workplace
- start and end date of deployment
- description of activity
Processing Time
The Social Insurance Agency has a statutory deadline — usually up to 45 days from submission of a complete application.
Therefore, it is important to apply in advance.
Receiving the Document
- For electronic applications, the document is delivered to your electronic mailbox on Slovensko.sk
- For paper applications, it is sent by post
What About Accommodation Abroad?
Accommodation is arranged and fully covered by our company.
You will receive in advance:
- the exact address
- contact details
- all necessary check-in information
You do not need to arrange accommodation yourself.
When Will My Invoices Be Paid?
Invoices are paid properly and on time — always within 14 days of issuance.
We approach our obligations responsibly and consistently, with an emphasis on accuracy and adherence to agreed terms.
The Difference Is Not Only in Earnings
Over time, it becomes clear that the difference is not only financial, but also in the system of operation.
Projects are:
- planned in advance
- transparently structured
- evaluated based on performance, not personal connections
This creates opportunities for self-employed professionals who want to work long-term and professionally.
Current Job Opportunities in One Place
On our website, we publish current construction job opportunities abroad specifically designed for this type of cooperation.
These are verified projects with clear information, where it is known in advance:
- what work is required
- where the work is performed
- under what conditions
Direct contact enables fast and straightforward communication without unnecessary intermediaries.
