Residence Permit in Slovakia

Residence Permit in Slovakia: Key Information

Permanent residence in Slovakia can only be granted to a limited group of individuals, such as:

• Spouses of Slovak citizens;
• Minor children of foreigners who already have permanent residence in Slovakia;
• Relatives dependent on a Slovak citizen.

Temporary residence permits in Slovakia, on the other hand, can be issued to various categories of migrants, provided they meet the state’s requirements.

Grounds for Obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit

Slovakia may issue a temporary residence permit on the following grounds:

• Starting a company or running a business;
• Conducting research activities;
• Status of a Slovak citizen living abroad;
• Serving in Slovakia as a peacekeeper;
• Permanent residence in another EU country;
• Employment;
• Long-term studies;
• Family reunification;
• Lecturing, cultural, or certain other activities.

The type of grounds determines both the application procedure and the list of required documents. Failure to comply with the rules may result in refusal.

Applications for residence must be submitted using a special form, which can be obtained at:

• The consulate in your country of residence;
• The migration office if you are already in Slovakia.

Documents Required for a Residence Permit in Slovakia

Typically, the following documents are needed:

• Completed application form;
• Two color photos (3x3.5 cm);
• Bank statement proving financial means;
• Receipt confirming payment of the state fee (the cost of the residence permit depends on the grounds and place of application);
• Valid passport;
• Proof of accommodation in Slovakia;
• Criminal record certificate;
• Proof of purpose of stay.

Additional documents may be required depending on the situation. To avoid difficulties, consult our specialists.

Once approved, you must enter Slovakia within 6 months and report to the migration office within 3 days after crossing the border.

Types of Residence Permits in Slovakia

The most common options include:

Residence Permit for Studies

Students must apply for admission to a Slovak educational institution and provide:

• Passport;
• Registered address in the home country;
• Grades from the last 3 years;
• Short CV;
• Motivation letter;
• Certificates/awards (if available).

Applications are usually accepted from January 1 to March 31 (private universities accept all year round).

If accepted, students must submit:

• Application in Slovak;
• Two color photos (3x3.5 cm);
• Acceptance letter;
• Criminal record certificate with apostille;
• Proof of at least €2600 in a personal bank account;
• Registered address;
• Parental authorization (for minors).

Residence Permit for Employment

Issued only if the employer invites the migrant and registers the company with the Ministry of Labor, confirming vacancies.

Required documents:

• Completed application form;
• Two color photos (3x3.5 cm);
• Employment contract;
• Criminal record certificate with apostille;
• Registered address.

State fee for this category: €165.50. Applications are reviewed within 2–3 months.

Residence Permit for Entrepreneurs

Available for both sole traders and company founders. Requirements differ by category.

Entrepreneurs must hold a “Živnostenský list” (trade license). Costs vary depending on status.

For sole traders:

• Application form;
• Two color photos (3x3.5 cm);
• Certificate of registration as a sole trader;
• Bank statements confirming €4500 in a business account and €2600 in a personal account;
• Criminal record certificate;
• Registered address.

For company founders:

• Completed application form;
• Two color photos (3x3.5 cm);
• Extract from the Slovak Commercial Register;
• Protocol of director changes signed by the founder;
• Criminal record certificate with apostille;
• Proof of €21,200 in a corporate account and €2600 in a personal account.

Other options are available — Incluence experts will select the best solution for your case during a consultation.