Each country has its own distinct work culture, shaping everything from how people search for jobs to how they communicate in the workplace and navigate administrative matters. What may seem perfectly routine in one country can feel unfamiliar or even unusual in another.
For those arriving in a new country, adjusting to the local job market and employment practices can be one of the biggest challenges. While Ukraine and Slovakia share many historical and cultural ties, there are notable differences in their work environments and employment systems that newcomers should be aware of.
Types of Employment and Job Opportunities
In Slovakia, the most common form of employment is permanent work, which is governed by the Labour Code. Employees in permanent positions are entitled to social security benefits, paid holiday, and compensation for overtime.
Another option is self-employment, where you operate your own business under your own name as a sole trader (known in Slovakia as SZČO). To do this, you must register your trade—either online through the slovensko.sk portal or in person at your local Trade Licensing Office. After registration, you’ll also need to sign up with the social security and health insurance providers, and open a business bank account.
Slovakia also recognises work agreements for specific tasks, such as student contracts, which are commonly used for short-term or occasional jobs. While this form of flexible employment is widespread in Slovakia, similar short-term arrangements for students are far less common in Ukraine.
The Job Market and Looking for Work
In Slovakia, it is standard practice to apply for jobs by submitting a CV, and often a cover letter as well.
If you’re applying for a role in a multinational company or in the IT sector, be prepared for a more rigorous recruitment process. These positions typically involve several stages of selection, with stricter criteria and higher expectations for candidates.
It’s also common for employers in Slovakia to request references from previous jobs.
For further details, see our dedicated article on how to find work in Slovakia.
Public Holidays and Part-Time Jobs
In Slovakia, if a public holiday falls on a weekend, it is not moved to a weekday, and the working week continues as usual.
By contrast, in Ukraine, it is common for a day off to be given during the following week if a public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday.
Differences as an Opportunity
While the differences in work culture between Ukraine and Slovakia are relatively minor, they are still noticeable.
Rather than being a barrier, these differences offer a chance for mutual learning and cultural exchange.
Adapting to a new working environment takes time, but it is a process that can lead to valuable insights, fresh perspectives, and rewarding new experiences.
This article was produced as part of the Pathways initiative supported by UNICEF. For more information about the project, please visit UNICEF’s digital one–stop-shop: https://akodobrezesi.sk/ua/
