Joint Press Release on Meeting between Chargé d’Affaires Liam Wasley and Minister Ján Richter on February 1

Minister of Labor, Social Affairs and Family Ján Richter and U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Liam Wasley discussed changes to Slovak and U.S. regulations that have made trans-Atlantic collaboration much easier.

As of January 1, the maximum validity of U.S. visas for Slovak workers in the United States has been extended from two to five years. At the time, the residency permits for American workers in Slovakia was also extended. Minister Richter explained that, “The Ministry of Labor can now provide permits for a maximum of five years, making the whole application process easier. Residence and work permits don’t have to be extended every two years.”

Minister Richter and Chargé d’Affaires Wasley agreed that this change would benefit both countries’ citizens by saving time and resources. Chargé Wasley commented that, “The U.S. Embassy welcomes this change, which will help U.S. and Slovak companies innovate and share ideas and expertise.”

During the meeting, Minister Richter and Chargé d’Affaires Wasley also discussed intercountry adoptions and entrepreneurship.