Migration questions Slovakia

Temporary Residence Permit

Linked to a specific purpose (e.g., employment, study). Changing the purpose requires submitting a new application. Granted for a limited period, usually from 1 to 6 years, depending on the purpose of stay: business - up to 3 years; employment - up to 5 years; study - up to 6 years; special activities - up to 2 years; scientific research and development - up to 2 years; family reunification - up to 5 years. Requires regular renewal, the duration of which depends on the residence permit category.

Rights

The right to stay in Slovakia for the specified period.

Limited work rights, which may depend on the residence permit category (for example, for a study residence permit, work permission is limited to certain hours per week).

The ability to travel within the Schengen Area countries up to 90 days within 180 days.

Restrictions

Does not provide the same rights as Slovak citizens (e.g., rights to social benefits are limited).

Depends on adhering to the purpose stated upon receipt.

 

Permanent Residence Permit

Granted for a long term: The first permanent residence permit is usually for 5 years. After this, one can apply for an indefinite permanent residence permit.

It may be issued in cases of:

- Living in Slovakia on a temporary residence permit for at least 5 years.

- Marriage to a Slovak citizen.

- Family reunification with a Slovak citizen or a person with permanent residence.

- For humanitarian reasons (e.g., refugees).

Rights

Almost the same rights as Slovak citizens, except for participation in national parliamentary elections.

Full access to the labor market without additional permits.

Access to social benefits, healthcare, and education on par with citizens.

The ability to travel visa-free within the Schengen Area countries.

Restrictions

May be revoked if you do not reside in Slovakia for more than 180 consecutive days within a year (depending on the category).

Requires proof of no debts and adherence to residency rules.

Thus, a temporary residence permit is suitable for temporary purposes such as study, work, or business. A permanent residence permit is a step toward long-term residence, integration into society, and the possibility of obtaining Slovak citizenship.

Documents required to obtain a temporary residence permit:

- Completed application form in Slovak.

- Valid passport.

- Color photo 3 x 3.5 cm in size.

- Document confirming the purpose of stay (e.g., employment contract, enrollment letter).

- Certificate of no criminal record from the country of citizenship and countries where the applicant has lived for more than 90 days in the past 3 years.

- Proof of accommodation in Slovakia.

- Proof of financial solvency, confirming the ability to cover living expenses.

All documents must be issued no earlier than 90 days before the application submission, legalized (apostille or consular legalization), and translated into Slovak.

Processing times

Standard time: 90 days from the moment of submitting the complete document package.

Expedited processing: possible in certain cases, for example, when applying for an EU Blue Card, a decision may be made within 30 days.

Additional requirements after obtaining a residence permit

Residence registration: within 3 working days upon arrival in Slovakia.

Health insurance: contract conclusion within 3 working days after receiving the residence permit card.

Medical examination: provision of a certificate of absence of diseases that pose a threat to public health within 30 days after receiving the residence permit card.

Please note that requirements may change, so it is recommended to contact official bodies or Slovak consulates for up-to-date information.

Submission of the application

Outside Slovakia: submit the application in person at the Slovak embassy or consulate in your country of citizenship or permanent residence.

In Slovakia: if you are already legally in the country (for example, with a visa), you can apply at the migration police department at your place of residence.

Please note that requirements may change, so it is recommended to seek up-to-date information from official authorities or Slovakian consulates.

Citizens of the European Union and the European Economic Area possess special rights to reside and work in Slovakia due to the principle of free movement within the EU.

Residence

Short-term stay (up to 90 days): EU/EEA citizens can stay in Slovakia without registration or special permits.

Long-term stay (over 90 days): If a stay of more than 90 days is planned, registration at the local foreign police department is required within 30 days of arrival. For registration, you will need:

  - A valid passport or ID card.

  - Two color photos sized 3 x 3.5 cm.

  - A document confirming the purpose of stay (e.g., employment contract, business registration certificate, proof of enrollment in an educational institution).

  - Proof of health insurance.

  - Proof of financial solvency.

Upon successful registration, a certificate of residence registration is issued.

Work

Employment: EU/EEA citizens have the right to work in Slovakia without the need for a work permit. The employer must notify the local labor office of the employment of an EU/EEA citizen within 7 working days of the start of employment.

Self-employment: EU/EEA citizens can engage in business activities under the same conditions as Slovak citizens. It is necessary to register with the relevant authorities and comply with local laws.

Social rights

Social security: EU/EEA citizens are entitled to social benefits and allowances on par with Slovak citizens, provided certain requirements, such as contributions to the social insurance system, are met.

Healthcare: With a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), EU/EEA citizens can receive emergency medical care in Slovakia. For full access to healthcare services, it is recommended to obtain local health insurance.

Education

Children of EU/EEA citizens have the right to free education in Slovakian state educational institutions.

Permanent residence

After residing legally and continuously in Slovakia for 5 years, EU/EEA citizens may apply for permanent residence.

Please note that, despite general rules, there may be specific requirements and procedures. It is recommended to seek up-to-date information from Slovakian official authorities or consulates.

Citizens of countries outside the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) face certain requirements and procedures for legal residence and work in Slovakia.

Residence

Short-term stay (up to 90 days): Some countries' citizens can enjoy visa-free access, allowing them to stay in Slovakia for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Citizens of other countries will need to obtain a Schengen visa category C.

Long-term stay (over 90 days): For a stay exceeding 90 days, it is necessary to obtain a residence permit specifying the purpose, such as work, study, business activities, or family reunification.

Work

Work permit: Non-EU citizens are required to obtain a work permit before starting employment in Slovakia. Exceptions are made when the foreigner already has a residence permit with the right to work or an EU "Blue Card."

Single permit: In some cases, it is possible to obtain a single permit that combines a residence permit and a work permit.

Features

EU "Blue Card": Highly qualified specialists can apply for an EU "Blue Card," which combines a residence permit and a work permit, offering additional advantages.

Seasonal work: For seasonal work (up to 6 months), simplified procedures for obtaining a work permit and residence permit are provided.

Self-employment: Foreigners can register as individual entrepreneurs subject to certain conditions.

Please note that requirements may change, so it is recommended to seek up-to-date information from the official authorities or Slovak consulates.

Extending a residence permit in Slovakia requires timely preparation and compliance with certain procedures.

 

Determine the application submission timeframe

 

Temporary residence permit: The application for extension should be submitted not earlier than 90 days and not later than 30 days before the expiration of the current permit.

 

Permanent residence permit: The application for extension must be submitted not later than 90 days before the end of its validity.

 

Prepare the necessary documents:

 

- Completed application form for residence permit extension.

 

- Valid international passport.

 

- Two color photographs of size 3 x 3.5 cm.

 

- Document confirming the purpose of stay, corresponding to the current residence permit (e.g., updated work contract, confirmation of continued education).

 

- Proof of accommodation in Slovakia.

 

- Evidence of financial sufficiency to cover living expenses.

 

- Certificate of no criminal record from the country of citizenship and countries where you have lived for more than 90 days within the last 3 years (not required in all cases, check with the local police department).

 

- Proof of medical insurance for the entire intended stay period.

 

Please note that all documents must be issued not earlier than 90 days before application submission, legalized (apostille or consular legalization), and translated into Slovak.

 

Submission of the application

 

In person at the local foreign police department in the area of your residence.

 

Online appointment booking: It is recommended to schedule an appointment in advance through the electronic booking system available on the official website of the Slovak Ministry of the Interior.

 

Awaiting the decision

 

Review period: Up to 90 days from the submission of the complete set of documents.

 

Notification: You will be notified in writing about the decision.

 

Receiving the updated residence permit card

 

After the application is approved, you will be issued a new residence permit card. The production time of the card may vary, usually from 30 to 60 days.

 

Additional recommendations

 

Consultation: In case of questions, it is advisable to consult the local foreign police department or a lawyer specializing in immigration law.

 

Please note that requirements may change, so it is recommended to seek up-to-date information from the official authorities or Slovak consulates.

To obtain a residence permit in Slovakia, it is necessary to provide proof of health insurance covering the entire intended period of stay. This requirement is aimed at ensuring access to medical services and preventing financial risks related to possible illnesses or accidents.

 

Health insurance options:

 

Private health insurance

Foreign insurance companies: You can obtain a policy in your country before departure. It is important to ensure that the insurance company provides coverage in Slovakia and that the policy meets the requirements of local authorities.

Slovak insurance companies: After arriving in Slovakia, you can enter into a contract with one of the local insurance companies. This may be a preferred option, as local policies often better meet requirements and provide broader access to medical services.

 

State health insurance

After obtaining a residence permit and registering your place of residence, you can register in the Slovak state health insurance system. This will provide access to a wide range of medical services on par with citizens of the country.

 

Insurance Policy Requirements

 

Coverage: The policy must cover all necessary medical services, including emergency care, hospitalization, and repatriation for medical reasons.

Validity period: The insurance must be valid for the entire duration of the intended stay in Slovakia.

Minimum coverage amount: It is recommended that the minimum coverage amount is no less than 30,000 euros.

 

Recommendations

 

Consultation: If needed, seek advice from experts or local immigration services to obtain up-to-date information.

 

Please note that requirements may change, so it is recommended to seek current information from official bodies or Slovak consulates.

Citizenship by Birth

By origin: A child automatically becomes a Slovak citizen if at least one parent is a citizen of the Slovak Republic, regardless of the place of birth.

By place of birth: A child born on Slovak territory to foreign parents can obtain citizenship if:

Both parents are unknown.

Both parents are stateless persons.

The child does not acquire parental citizenship at birth.

 

Citizenship through Adoption

A child adopted by a Slovak citizen can obtain citizenship if the adoption is completed before the child turns 18.

 

Citizenship through Naturalization

General requirements:

- Continuous legal residence in Slovakia for at least 8 years immediately before applying.

- Proficiency in the Slovak language sufficient for everyday communication.

- No criminal record and no violations of public order.

- Financial stability and accommodation.

Exceptions:

- Marriage to Slovak citizen: Possibility to apply after 5 years of marriage and cohabitation in Slovakia.

- Refugees: Possibility to apply after 4 years of residence as a refugee.

- Significant contribution to Slovakia's development: Individuals who have made a special contribution to the country's economy, culture, science, or sports may be eligible for citizenship in shorter terms.

 

Citizenship for Ethnic Slovaks

Individuals with Slovak ancestry up to the third generation can apply for citizenship upon confirmation of ethnic origin and maintenance of cultural ties with Slovakia.

 

Additional Notes

Dual citizenship: Slovakia generally does not recognize dual citizenship. However, there are exceptions for EU citizens and those who obtained citizenship by origin.

Exemption from language exam: Individuals over 65 years, children under 14, and those with certain physical or mental limitations may be exempt from taking the Slovak language exam.

 

It is recommended to seek advice from local authorities or immigration law specialists for up-to-date information and assistance in the process of obtaining Slovak citizenship.

Holders of a temporary residence permit in Slovakia have the right to freely leave the country and return during the validity of their permit. The residence permit allows for multiple border crossings without the need for additional visas.

 

Main Provisions

Multiple trips: With a temporary residence permit, you can make an unlimited number of trips outside Slovakia and return as long as your residence permit is valid.

 

Schengen Area: As Slovakia is part of the Schengen Area, residence permit holders can travel to other Schengen countries without a visa, complying with the stay rules established for third-country nationals.

 

Important Points

 

Residence permit validity: Ensure that your residence permit is valid for the entire period of your planned trips. If the validity is nearing its end, it is recommended to apply for an extension in advance.

 

Resident obligations: If you plan to be absent from Slovakia for more than 180 consecutive days, you are required to notify the immigration authorities.

 

Documents when crossing the border: Always carry a valid passport and a residence permit card when entering and exiting Slovakia.

 

Recommendations

 

Informing authorities: If you plan to be absent for an extended period, contact local immigration authorities for details on your obligations.

 

Following these recommendations will ensure seamless border crossings and compliance with Slovakia's immigration rules.

Receiving a denial for a residence permit in Slovakia can be unpleasant, but there are specific steps you can take to appeal the decision or reapply.

 

Analyzing the reason for denial

Written notification: After a denial, you will receive an official letter stating the reasons. Carefully review it to understand the grounds for the denial.

 

Appealing the decision

Appeal deadlines: According to Slovak law, you have the right to appeal the decision within 15 days of receiving it.

 

Procedure for filing: An appeal is submitted in writing to the same authority that issued the denial. The appeal must include:

  - Your personal data.

  - A description of the decision being appealed.

  - The grounds on which you believe the decision is unfounded.

  - Evidence or documents supporting your position.

Reviewing the appeal: After submitting an appeal, the competent authorities will review your case and make a decision. The review periods may vary.

 

Reapplying for a residence permit

Eliminating reasons for denial: If you do not plan to appeal or your appeal was denied, you can file a new application for a residence permit. It is important to address the reasons that were the basis for the initial denial beforehand.

Preparing documents: Ensure all documents meet the requirements and are up-to-date.

 

Consultation with a lawyer

Professional assistance: It is recommended to consult a lawyer specializing in Slovak immigration law. They can help evaluate your situation, prepare necessary documents, and represent your interests in the appeal or reapplication process.

 

Adhering to stay periods

Legality of stay: If your legal stay in Slovakia is nearing its end and you have been denied a residence permit, you must leave the country before your stay expires to avoid violating immigration law.

 

Recommendations

 

Informing: Maintain communication with immigration authorities and respond promptly to their requests or notifications.

 

Note that requirements may change, so it is recommended to seek up-to-date information from official Slovak authorities or consulates.

During immigration procedures in Slovakia, official documents often need to be translated into Slovak. Such translations must be done by court (sworn) translators accredited by the Ministry of Justice of the Slovak Republic.

 

When translations are needed

 

Applying for a residence permit: All documents issued in a foreign language must be translated into Slovak by a court translator.

 

Registering a marriage: Documents proving marital status must be officially translated.

 

Recognition of education (nostrification): Diplomas and certificates require certified translation.

 

How to find a court translator

 

Official registry: The Ministry of Justice of the Slovak Republic (https://www.justice.gov.sk/) maintains a registry of court translators. You can find a list of accredited translators on the ministry's official website.

 

Translation agencies: Many agencies offer court translator services. Ensure the agency collaborates with accredited specialists.

 

Note that requirements may change, so it is recommended to seek up-to-date information from official Slovak authorities or consulates.