Why do companies handle employee accommodation?
Labour shortages are forcing companies to look for employees outside their region and abroad. Anyone who wants to attract and keep workers has to be able to offer them a roof over their heads too. That's why employee accommodation is now on the agenda of almost every manufacturing company, construction firm and recruitment agency.
In this article we'll summarise the group accommodation options available, what to watch out for when negotiating with an accommodation provider and how to manage the whole process efficiently.
What accommodation options does a company have?
1. Workers' hostel
The most common and usually the best-value choice for larger groups of workers:
- Capacity of dozens of beds in one place
- Prices from 130 to 300 € per bed per month, depending on the region
- The price usually includes utilities, internet and basic furnishings
- The accommodation provider is used to invoicing companies
2. Rented apartments
Suitable for smaller teams or key employees. The downside is the administration involved with multiple landlords, arranging utilities and limited capacity - for a group of 20 workers you would need 5 or more apartments.
3. Guesthouses and tourist hostels
A solution for short-term projects (weeks). For long-term stays they work out considerably more expensive than a workers' hostel - we covered this in more detail in our article on the differences between workers' and tourist hostels.
What to consider when booking for a group
Capacity and headroom
Expect the number of workers to change over time. Agree with the accommodation provider how a temporarily vacant bed is handled - whether you pay for the reserved capacity or only for the people actually staying.
Contract and invoicing
You can recognise a serious partner by a clear contract. It should cover:
- The price per bed and everything it includes (utilities, internet, bed linen, cleaning)
- The terms for adding and removing workers
- The notice period and termination conditions
- Liability for damages and the house rules
- The invoicing arrangement (a monthly invoice to the company with a breakdown by bed)
Practical details that make the difference
- ✓ Parking for company vehicles and vans
- ✓ Distance from the site and public transport availability for shifts
- ✓ A kitchen and laundry room - workers save money and stay longer
- ✓ Lockable wardrobes and secure storage for tools
- ✓ An on-site manager or reception to resolve problems on the spot
Housing foreign workers
If you employ foreign nationals, make sure the accommodation provider can issue a proof of accommodation document for residence permit proceedings and fulfils the reporting obligations towards the Foreigners' Police. Experienced hostels do this routinely.
How much does it cost a company?
Indicative monthly cost per worker (as of 2026):
- Eastern and central Slovakia: 130 - 220 € / bed
- Western Slovakia outside Bratislava: 180 - 260 € / bed
- Bratislava and surroundings: 220 - 320 € / bed
The tax and social security treatment of accommodation contributions (when they count as a deductible company expense and when as a non-cash benefit for the employee) changes over time and depends on the specific situation - always check your setup with your accountant or tax advisor.
How to go about the search
- Define your requirements - number of beds, location, dates, budget, parking
- Approach several hostels at once - compare prices and terms
- Do a viewing - the condition of the rooms and sanitary facilities directly affects worker turnover
- Put the contract in writing - including the rules for changes in headcount
- Keep communicating - a good relationship with the accommodation provider means flexibility when you need it
Where to find hostels for your employees
On our portal you will find hundreds of workers' hostels across Slovakia with listed capacities, prices and photos. You contact the accommodation provider directly - no commission, no middlemen - which adds up to significant savings when you're booking dozens of beds.
Conclusion
Good employee accommodation is not just a cost item - it's a tool for attracting and keeping workers. It pays to invest time in choosing the hostel, drawing up a clear contract and building a good relationship with the accommodation provider. The company saves not only money, but also the headaches that come with staff turnover.