Types of Residency in Slovakia
Slovakia offers several types of residency permits for foreign nationals. The type of permit you need will depend on the purpose of your stay and the length of time you intend to stay in the country.
Temporary Residence
Employment Residence Permit
Foreign nationals who are employed by a Slovak employer can obtain a temporary residence permit for the purpose of employment. The permit is usually valid for up to two years, with the possibility of an extension.
Business Residence Permit
Foreign nationals who intend to establish a business or invest in an existing business in Slovakia can obtain a temporary residence permit for the purpose of business. The permit is usually valid for up to one year, with the possibility of an extension.
Study Residence Permit
Foreign nationals who intend to study at a Slovak educational institution can obtain a temporary residence permit for the purpose of study. The permit is usually valid for up to one year, with the possibility of an extension.
Family Reunification Residence Permit
Foreign nationals who have a family member with temporary or permanent residence in Slovakia can obtain a temporary residence permit for the purpose of family reunification. The permit is usually valid for up to one year, with the possibility of an extension.
Other Temporary Residence Permits
Other types of temporary residence permits are available for foreign nationals who intend to engage in research, cultural activities, or other non-employment related activities in Slovakia.
Permanent Residence
Foreign nationals who have legally resided in Slovakia for at least five years can apply for permanent residency. There are two types of permanent residence permits available:
Permanent Residence for EU Citizens
EU citizens who have legally resided in Slovakia for at least five years can apply for permanent residence. This permit allows the holder to stay and work in Slovakia without any restrictions.
Permanent Residence for Non-EU Citizens
Non-EU citizens who have legally resided in Slovakia for at least five years can apply for permanent residence. This permit allows the holder to stay and work in Slovakia without any restrictions.
Applying for Residency in Slovakia
Foreign nationals who intend to stay in Slovakia for more than 90 days must obtain a residency permit. The process for obtaining a residency permit is as follows:
Apply for a visa (if required) at the Slovak embassy or consulate in your home country.
Register your residence with the Foreign Police department in Slovakia within three working days of your arrival in the country.
Apply for a residency permit at the Foreign Police department in Slovakia. You will need to provide the following documents:
- Valid passport
- Proof of accommodation in Slovakia
- Proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay in Slovakia
- Criminal record certificate from your home country (if required)
- Medical examination certificate (if required)
- Once your application has been processed, you will receive a decision from the Foreign Police department. If your application is approved, you will be issued a residency permit.
Registering with Government Departments/Organisations
Foreign nationals who stay in Slovakia for more than 90 days must register their residence with the Foreign Police department. Additionally, if you intend to work in Slovakia, you must register with the Social Insurance Agency and the health insurance provider.
Information on Residence in Slovakia
For reliable, up-to-date information on residence in Slovakia, you can visit the website of the Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic. The website provides information on the types of residence permits available, the application process, and other related information. Additionally, the Foreign Police department can provide information on the specific requirements for obtaining a residency permit. Foreign nationals can visit the following websites:
- Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic (https://www.minv.sk/en/)