A legal stay does not automatically mean the right to work. We explain when a foreigner may work on a visa or under visa-free travel and what basis for work is needed.
1. A visa is not the same as the right to work
The residence title alone (a visa, visa-free travel) does not determine the right to work. To work legally, a foreigner needs a basis for work (a permit or a declaration), unless they are exempt.
2. Work on a visa
Work on the basis of a visa is possible where the foreigner also has an appropriate basis for work. The purpose for which the visa was issued and its annotations matter for whether employment is permitted.
3. Visa-free travel
A stay under visa-free travel (e.g. with a biometric passport) makes the stay legal, but a separate basis is still required for work — a permit or a declaration, unless an exemption applies.
4. The stamp and waiting for a decision
Filing a residence application on time may make the stay legal until a decision is issued (formerly the stamp, today the certificate). The effect on the right to work depends on the basis — check it in your specific situation.
Show more: how to combine residence and work legally
How to combine residence and work legally
For longer employment the cleanest solution is the single permit, which combines residence and work in one decision. For citizens of 4 countries a quick route is often the declaration.
Is your employee on a visa or under visa-free travel?
We will determine whether they have the right to work and what basis they need for the employment to be legal and safe.
Book a free consultationLegal note: this article is informative and does not constitute legal advice. Legal status: 2026 (Act of 12 December 2013 on Foreigners; Act of 20 March 2025, Journal of Laws 2025, item 621).
Sources: Act on Foreigners, Journal of Laws 2013, item 1650; Act of 20 March 2025, Journal of Laws 2025, item 621; UdSC. The above discussion is our own; the provisions cited should be verified against the current text of the act before taking action.