Slovenia will introduce the Blue Card, a standardized work and residence permit for highly-skilled foreigners in Slovenia, a government press release said on Thursday.
Under the draft Aliens Act approved by the 122nd regular government session, the Blue Card will be issued following a uniform procedure for residence and labor, so applicants deal with only one administrative unit.
The act confers more rights on foreigners subject to deportation, as foreigners will now have the right to leave the country of their own free will, while being ensured legal protection.
It ensures the protection of the rights of foreigners engaged in illegal employment, as they can acquire permission to stay, and later on acquire a residence permit, if the applicant is willing to cooperate with the judicial authorities in court proceedings (criminal and civil) instigated against the employer.
Besides, the release said, the draft Act introduces easier access to some categories of foreigners, including athletes, coaches, accredited journalists, business representatives, students and family members of Slovenian citizens.
The act will enable such people to acquire a visa for a long- term stay, which enables them to enter the country and subsequently obtain a residence permit while in the country.
The act also enables some foreign applicants to obtain a first residence permit and subsequently surrender it in Slovenia.
The act also introduces temporary residence permits for foreigners whose residence in the country is desired for cultural, scientific, economic or political reasons, the release said.
The draft Aliens Act has been referred to the National Assembly for approval, the release said.