How to Change Employers While Holding a Unified Work Permit: A Practical Guide for Foreigners in Serbia
Key Steps in the Employer Change Process
Changing your employer during the validity of a unified work permit in the Republic of Serbia might seem complex, but with the right procedure, it can be handled quickly and efficiently. In this blog, Dvornić Law Office explains how to proceed if you want to change your employer or work for multiple employers simultaneously, all while your unified permit remains valid.
What Is a Unified Work Permit?
A unified work permit allows foreigners to legally work in Serbia, either through direct employment or self-employment. This permit is a crucial document that enables foreign nationals to engage in legal employment under Serbian law. However, the need to change employers or work for multiple employers may arise during the permit’s validity period.
How to Change Employers or Work for Multiple Employers?
If you wish to change your employer or work for more than one during the permit’s validity, you must submit a request for approval to the competent authority. Although this can be done electronically through the Unified Permit Portal, in practice, it is usually submitted directly to the National Employment Service. The request can be submitted by the foreigner, the employer on behalf of the foreigner, or an authorized legal or natural person.
Exception: Old Temporary Residence Permits
It is important to note that if temporary residence was granted before the amendments to the Law on Foreigners and the Law on Employment of Foreigners (effective February 1), and if the foreigner holds a still-valid old-style permit (a blue sticker in the passport), the application for a work permit is still submitted to the National Employment Service in accordance with the previous legal provisions.
Steps in the Procedure
- Submitting the Approval Request – The request to change employers or work for multiple employers is submitted via the Unified Portal or directly to the relevant office of the National Employment Service (NES). The request includes a labor market test. You can find the form here: NSZ Work Permits.
- Collecting Required Documentation
- Decision by the Competent Authority – After a properly submitted request, the local NES office is required to issue a decision within 10 days. The decision is based on the labor market test, which is conducted within four days.
- Appeals Process – If dissatisfied with the decision, you have the right to appeal. The final decision is made by the minister responsible for employment.
Labor Market Test: What Does It Mean?
The labor market test is a crucial step when changing employers. It checks whether there are qualified local candidates for the position the foreigner intends to take. The test is conducted by the National Employment Service, and it is mandatory before approval is granted.
Working for Multiple Employers: Is It Allowed?
Yes, the law allows foreigners to work for more than one employer—provided they receive approval from the competent authorities. It’s important to emphasize that the unified work permit must remain valid, and all new employment contracts or contract annexes must be submitted when seeking approval. An example would be a foreigner working part-time for one employer and using the remaining hours to work full-time or part-time for another.
Registering Foreigners in the Central Register of Mandatory Social Insurance (CROSO Portal)
After obtaining approval, the next step is registering the employee in the CROSO portal. This involves entering all relevant information, including the start date, type of insurance, and other necessary details.
Registration is mandatory and ensures the employee is enrolled in health, pension, and disability insurance—granting them all associated rights. It’s recommended to complete this step as soon as approval is received to fulfill legal obligations.
Government and Exceptions: Special Rules for Shortage Occupations
The Government of the Republic of Serbia may exempt certain categories of foreigners with shortage occupations from obtaining approval for changing employers. These exceptions can be granted based on labor market conditions and recommendations from the Socio-Economic Council.
Conclusion
Changing employers or working for multiple employers during the validity of a unified work permit is not a complicated process if you follow the prescribed steps. It is crucial to submit the request on time, gather all necessary documentation, and adhere to official procedures.
Dvornić Law Office is here to help ensure a smooth process and protect your rights during your employment in Serbia.
For more information and legal support, Dvornić Law Office is at your service.
Note: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions and support, please contact Dvornić Law Office.
