The government has simplified the issuance of work permits for foreigners so they can join the multibillion post-flood reconstruction effort. The list of jobs for which fast-track procedure applies includes lorry drivers, bricklayers and carpenters, and various water and gas supply installation fitters and repairers.

The list of the eligible professions issued by the Employment Service o 19 September, shows that employers in Slovenia can also apply a fast-track procedure for welders and electricians and builders of various types.

In demand are also operators of various machinery, installers of metal structures, crane and lift operators, workers in forestry, cleaners, servers and housekeepers in offices, hotels and other institutions, cooks and kitchen assistants.

Also available are healthcare and home care jobs.

For these shortage occupations, citizens of third countries who do not need a visa to enter and stay in Slovenia will be able to obtain a single work and residence permit more quickly.

The Employment Service will have to complete the procedure within 10 days and it will not have to check the unemployed register. Foreigners will thus be able to start working before they are issued the permit, which takes up to three months.

The Labour Ministry recently told the Slovenian Press Agency that the most applications were expected from the former Yugoslav republics, while labour from Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova was also expected on a smaller scale.

The ministry could not say how many foreigners are expected to be hired in this way. It noted that the Employment Service had do far been receiving 4,000-5,000 applications for permits under bilateral employment agreements on a monthly basis.

While employers have welcomed the measure, there are concerns that some companies might abuse it. Labour Minister Luka Mesec has announced rigorous checks, noting that the Labour Inspectorate may issue a fine of up to €30,000 for abuse.