Europe – Slovakia Visa – Citizenship

1. What is a Slovakia visa and why do I need one?


A Slovakia visa is a travel permit that allows foreign nationals to enter and stay in Slovakia for a specific period of time. It is required for individuals who come from countries that are not members of the European Union, the European Economic Area, or the Schengen Zone.

2. Who needs a visa to enter Slovakia?

Foreign nationals from countries outside the EU/EEA/Schengen Zone need a visa to enter Slovakia. Individuals from certain countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan may be exempt from obtaining a visa if their stay does not exceed 90 days.

3. What are the different types of visas for Slovakia?

There are several types of visas for Slovakia depending on the purpose of your visit:
– Short-stay or Schengen visa: This type of visa allows you to stay in Slovakia for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is suitable for tourist visits, business trips, or transit purposes.
– Long-stay visa: This type of visa allows you to stay in Slovakia for more than 90 days for various reasons such as work, study, family reunification, or medical treatment.
– Airport transit visa: This type of visa is required for individuals who need to pass through a Slovak airport without entering the country.
– Residence permit: This is not strictly considered a visa but it allows foreigners to live and work in Slovakia for an extended period.

4. How can I apply for a Slovakia visa?

You can apply for a Slovakia via through the nearest Slovak embassy or consulate in your home country. You must submit a completed application form along with all required documents and pay the necessary fees.

5. What documents are required for a Slovakia visa application?

The specific requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. In general, you will need:
– A valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond your intended stay
– Completed visa application form with your personal information and travel details
– Two recent passport-size photos
– Proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses in Slovakia
– Round-trip flight reservation or itinerary
– Travel and medical insurance that covers your entire stay in Slovakia
– Support documents for the purpose of your trip (e.g. invitation letter, hotel reservations, proof of enrollment if studying)
– Proof of ties to your home country (e.g. employment letter, property ownership)
– A valid residence permit if you are not a citizen of the country where you are applying for the visa

It is recommended to check with the nearest Slovak embassy or consulate for the full list of requirements and any additional documents that may be needed.

6. How much does a Slovakia visa cost?

The visa fee for Slovakia varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your nationality. Generally, short-stay visas cost 60 euros while long-stay visas cost 99 euros. The airport transit visa fee is 35 euros.

7. How long does it take to process a Slovakia visa?

It usually takes up to 15 days for a Slovakia visa application to be processed. However, processing times may vary depending on your nationality and the volume of applications received by the embassy or consulate.

8. Can I extend my stay in Slovakia if my initial visa expires?

If you wish to extend your stay in Slovakia beyond the validity of your current visa, you must apply for a new one before it expires. Extensions are not allowed.

9. What happens if my Slovakia visa application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you may reapply with additional supporting documents or appeal the decision within 30 days from receiving the rejection notice.

10. Is there any other important information I should know about obtaining a Slovakia visa?

It is important to keep in mind that possession of a valid visa does not guarantee entry into Slovakia. The final decision on entry is made by the border authorities upon arrival. You may be asked to provide additional documents or reasons for your visit upon entry. It is always best to check with the embassy or consulate before your trip to ensure you have all necessary documents and information.

2. How can I apply for a Slovakia visa?


To apply for a Slovakia visa, follow these steps:

1. Determine the type of visa you need: There are various types of visas for Slovakia, including tourist visas, business visas, and student visas. Make sure you select the correct type based on your purpose of travel.

2. Gather required documents: The documents required for a Slovakia visa may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for, but generally include a completed application form, passport-sized photos, passport or travel document with at least 3 months validity beyond the intended stay in Slovakia, proof of financial means, and travel itinerary.

3. Book an appointment: Visit the website of the Slovak embassy or consulate in your country to book an appointment to submit your application. Some countries also allow online applications via visa processing websites.

4. Submit your application: On the day of your appointment, take all required documents to the designated embassy or consulate and submit your application.

5. Pay the fee: You will be required to pay a non-refundable fee when submitting your application. The amount may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for.

6. Wait for processing: After submitting your application and paying the fee, it can take several weeks for it to be processed. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your planned trip.

7. Collect your visa: When your visa has been approved, you will be notified to collect it from the embassy or consulate where you submitted your application.

Note: Nationals from some countries may require an invitation letter from a host in Slovakia as part of their visa application process. Check with the embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.

3. What documents do I need to submit for a Slovakia visa application?


The documents required for a Slovakia visa application may vary depending on the type of visa being applied for, but typically include:

1. Completed visa application form: This is available online or can be obtained from the embassy or consulate of Slovakia.

2. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay in Slovakia and should have at least two blank pages.

3. Two recent passport-sized photos: The photos should meet the requirements set by the embassy or consulate, such as size and background color.

4. Proof of accommodation: This can be a hotel reservation, invitation letter from a friend or relative, or confirmation of accommodation from a tour company.

5. Flight reservation: A copy of your flight itinerary showing arrival and departure dates.

6. Travel medical insurance: Provide proof of travel medical insurance that covers medical expenses, repatriation, and emergency hospital treatment during your stay in Slovakia.

7. Financial means: You need to show proof that you have enough funds to cover your accommodation and living costs during your stay in Slovakia. This can be in the form of bank statements or sponsorship letters.

8. Purpose of visit: You may need to provide additional documents depending on your purpose of visit, such as an employment contract, invitation letter from a business partner, or school enrollment confirmation.

9. Proof of legal residence: If you are not applying for a visa from your home country, you may need to provide proof that you are legally residing in the country where you are applying for the visa.

10. Visa fee payment: Payment for the visa fee is usually required when submitting the application.

It’s important to note that these requirements may vary depending on your nationality and individual circumstances. It is recommended to check with the embassy or consulate before submitting your application to ensure you have all the necessary documents.

4. Is there an age limit for applying for a Slovakia visa?

There is no specific age limit for applying for a Slovakia visa. However, minors under the age of 18 may need additional documents and permission from their parents or legal guardians in order to travel to Slovakia.

5. How long does it take to process a Slovakia visa application?


The average processing time for a Slovakia visa application is approximately 15 days. However, this can vary depending on the type of visa being applied for and the individual circumstances of each case. It is recommended to submit your application as early as possible to allow enough time for processing.

6. Can I work or study in Slovakia with a tourist or business visa?

No, a tourist or business visa does not allow you to work or study in Slovakia. If you wish to work or study in Slovakia, you will need to obtain the appropriate visa or permit for that purpose.

7. Is travel medical insurance required for a Slovakia visa?


Yes, travel medical insurance is required for a Slovakia visa. Applicants are required to provide proof of valid travel medical insurance that covers the entire duration of their stay in Slovakia. The insurance must have a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 and must cover any medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation in case of illness or accident.

8. Can I enter other European countries with a Slovakia visa?


Yes, you can enter other European countries with a Slovakia visa as long as it is a Schengen visa. Slovakia is a member of the Schengen area, which allows for free movement between its member states. This means that once you have entered Slovakia with your visa, you can travel to other Schengen countries without needing to apply for additional visas. However, please note that there may be specific entry requirements for each individual country and it is important to check these before travelling.

9. What are the different types of visas available for Slovakia and their purpose?


1. Tourist visa: This type of visa is issued for the purpose of tourism, leisure, or visiting friends or relatives in Slovakia.

2. Business visa: Business visas are issued for individuals traveling to Slovakia for business-related purposes, such as attending conferences, meetings, or negotiations.

3. Study visa: This type of visa is issued for students attending educational institutions in Slovakia for a period longer than 90 days.

4. Work visa: Individuals who plan to work in Slovakia must obtain a work visa before entering the country. The visa is issued based on the employment offer and the validity period of the employment contract.

5. Transit visa: A transit visa allows travelers to pass through Slovakia on their way to another destination. It is valid for a maximum of 5 days.

6. Temporary residence permit: Individuals staying in Slovakia for more than 90 days need a temporary residence permit (TRP).

7. Family reunification visa: Spouses and minor children of foreign nationals holding a TRP can apply for this type of visa to join them in Slovakia.

8. Medical treatment visa: This type of visa allows individuals to enter Slovakia specifically for medical treatment purposes.

9. Official and diplomatic visas: These visas are given to officials and diplomats representing their countries in diplomatic missions or international organizations located in Slovakia. This category also includes visas issued to family members of officials and diplomats.

10. Are there any specific requirements for minors applying for a Slovakia visa?


Yes, minors (under the age of 18) applying for a Slovakia visa must provide the following additional documents:

1. A letter of consent signed by both parents or legal guardians, authorizing the minor to travel to Slovakia and specifying the purpose and duration of the trip.

2. The minor’s birth certificate.

3. Copies of the parents’ or legal guardians’ ID cards or passports.

4. If traveling without their parents or legal guardians, minors must also provide copies of their parents’ or legal guardians’ consent for the trip and an affidavit from their parents or legal guardians stating who will be responsible for their transportation, accommodation, and maintenance in Slovakia.

5. Minors traveling with only one parent must provide a certified copy of their parents’ or legal guardians’ custody agreement.

6. If one parent has sole custody, a court order evidencing such custody must also be provided.

7. If a minor is adopted, they must provide their adoption papers and proof of the adoptive parent’s citizenship.

11. Can I extend my stay in Slovakia beyond the duration of my visa?


Yes, you can apply for a visa extension through the Foreign Police department in Slovakia before your current visa expires. However, the extension is subject to approval and you will need to provide valid reasons for it, such as medical treatment or educational purposes. The maximum duration of stay with a Schengen visa is 90 days in any 180-day period.

12. Do I need a transit visa if I am only passing through Slovakia on my way to another country in Europe?


The need for a transit visa in Slovakia depends on your nationality and the length of your stay. If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country, you do not need a transit visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, if you are a citizen of a country requiring a visa for short-term stays in Slovakia, you may also require a transit visa even if you are only passing through the country.

If you are from a non-EU country and plan to stay in Slovakia for more than five days as part of your transit, you will need to apply for a C-type Schengen visa instead of a transit visa. This will allow you to travel through Slovakia and stay for up to 90 days in other Schengen countries.

It is best to check with the Embassy or Consulate of the country you will be traveling to, as well as the Slovakian Embassy or Consulate nearest to you, to determine if a transit or another type of visa is required for your trip.

13. Are there any particular restrictions on certain nationalities when applying for a Slovakian Visa?

There are no specific restrictions on certain nationalities when applying for a Slovakian Visa. All applicants are subject to the same application process and will be evaluated based on their individual circumstances and purpose of travel. Each applicant must fulfill all necessary requirements and provide all required documents during the application process.

14. Are biometric data and fingerprints required for the Visa application process?

Yes, biometric data and fingerprints are required for the Visa application process in most cases. This is to ensure that the person applying for the Visa is who they claim to be and to prevent fraud or identity theft. The exact requirements for biometric data may vary depending on the country issuing the Visa and their specific visa processing procedures. It is important to check with your local embassy or consulate for specific information on what biometric data is required for your particular situation.

15.Post Brexit, what is the impact of contingency measures on UK nationals living in EU nations like Slovac Republic?


The impact of contingency measures on UK nationals living in EU nations, including the Slovak Republic, post Brexit can vary depending on the specific measures that are put in place. Some potential impacts could include:

1. Loss of freedom of movement: As the UK is no longer a member of the EU, UK nationals will no longer have the right to live and work freely in EU nations. This could potentially make it more difficult for UK nationals to move to or stay in the Slovak Republic.

2. Changes to residency and work permits: Depending on the arrangements made between the UK and Slovakia, UK nationals may need to apply for new residency or work permits in order to continue living and working in Slovakia.

3. Impact on healthcare coverage: UK nationals may lose access to healthcare coverage provided by their home country’s national health service. They will need to arrange for healthcare coverage through private insurance or through Slovakia’s public health system.

4. Impact on pensions and social security: The change in status may also affect pensions and social security benefits for UK nationals living in Slovakia, as they will no longer be covered by EU regulations.

5. Currency fluctuations: Changes in exchange rates between the British pound and the Euro could also impact UK nationals financially, especially if they are receiving income from the UK.

It is important for UK nationals currently residing in Slovakia (or any other EU nation) to closely monitor developments and ensure they have all necessary documents and permits in place before any deadlines set by authorities. They should also seek guidance from relevant government agencies or legal professionals if needed.

16.Are there any special visas available for entrepreneurs and investors in Slovakia?

There are several types of visas available for entrepreneurs and investors in Slovakia, including:

1. Business visa: This visa is designed for individuals who want to come to Slovakia for the purpose of conducting business activities such as negotiations, attending conferences or trade fairs, or establishing a company.

2. Investment visa: This visa is intended for individuals who want to invest in Slovakia by purchasing a stake in an existing Slovak company or starting their own business.

3. Startup visa: This visa is specifically targeted towards innovative entrepreneurs who want to establish a startup company in Slovakia that has the potential to significantly contribute to the country’s economy.

4. Golden Visa: This program allows non-EU citizens to obtain residency in Slovakia by investing a significant amount of money (at least 300,000 euros) into real estate in the country.

5. EU Blue Card: This visa is available for highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries who have a job offer from a Slovak employer and meet certain salary requirements.

It’s important to note that each of these visas has different requirements and application processes. It is recommended that individuals interested in obtaining one of these visas consult with a legal professional in Slovakia for guidance and assistance.

17.What is the validity period of a Slovakian Visa?

The validity period of a Slovakian Visa varies depending on the type of visa and the purpose of your trip. Generally, short-term visas are valid for 90 days within a 180-day period from the date of issue. Long-term visas, such as study or work visas, may be valid for up to one year or longer. It is important to check the specific validity period of your visa before traveling to Slovakia.

18.Is it possible to obtain dual citizenship in Slovakia?

Yes, it is possible to obtain dual citizenship in Slovakia under certain circumstances. Slovak citizenship can be acquired by birth, descent, marriage, naturalization, or special provision for persons of Slovak origins. Foreigners who acquire Slovak citizenship through naturalization are generally required to renounce their previous citizenship, but exceptions can be made for citizens of EU/EEA countries, as well as those with strong ties to Slovakia (such as long-term residents or persons with Slovak ancestors). However, dual citizenship is not automatic and must be approved on a case-by-case basis by the Ministry of Interior. It is important to note that maintaining dual citizenship may have implications for tax obligations and military service requirements. Anyone interested in obtaining dual citizenship in Slovakia should consult with the relevant authorities and seek professional legal advice before proceeding.

19.What are the main benefits of having Slovakian citizenship?

Some of the main benefits of having Slovakian citizenship include:

1. Right to live and work in Slovakia: As a Slovakian citizen, you have the right to live and work in Slovakia without any restrictions.

2. Visa-free travel: A Slovakian passport allows you to travel to 173 countries without needing a visa or with the option of obtaining one upon arrival.

3. Access to social benefits: As a citizen of Slovakia, you will have access to social benefits such as healthcare, education, and social security.

4. Political rights: You will have the right to participate in political processes and vote in elections for local and national government positions.

5. Freedom of movement within EU: With Slovenian citizenship, you can freely move within the European Union and live, work, or study in any member state.

6. Dual citizenship: Slovakia allows for dual citizenship, so you can retain your original citizenship while also being a Slovakian citizen.

7. Inheritance rights: As a citizen of Slovakia, you have inheritance rights that allow you to inherit property and assets from family members who are citizens of Slovakia.

8. Greater job opportunities: Having Slovakian citizenship can open up more job opportunities within Slovakia as it is preferred by employers over other foreign nationals.

9. Cultural connection: Being a citizen of Slovakia allows you to fully immerse yourself in the culture, language, and history of the country.

10.Protection through consular services: If you encounter any legal issues or emergencies while traveling abroad, you can seek assistance from the nearest Slovakian embassy or consulate for consular services and protection.

20.How can I apply for citizenship in Slovakia as an immigrant?


In order to apply for citizenship in Slovakia as an immigrant, you must meet certain criteria and follow the necessary steps outlined by the Slovakian government. This includes:

1. Meeting the basic requirements – You must be at least 18 years old, have valid resident status in Slovakia, and have no criminal record.

2. Reside in Slovakia for a certain amount of time – The length of residency required varies depending on your situation. For example, if you are married to a Slovak citizen or have Slovak ancestry, you may only need to reside in Slovakia for 3 years. However, if you do not have any ties to Slovakia, you may need to reside there for 8 years.

3. Learn the Slovak language – Applicants are required to pass a language exam to demonstrate their proficiency in the Slovak language.

4. Have knowledge of Slovak history and culture – Applicants must also pass a test about the history and culture of Slovakia.

5. Gather necessary documents – This includes your valid resident permit, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), proof of income or employment, and other documents that may be required based on your circumstances.

6. Submit an application – You can download the application form from the Ministry of Interior’s website or obtain one from any district office in Slovakia. Make sure to fill out the form completely and accurately.

7. Pay application fee – There is a fee of €640 that must be paid upon submitting your application.

8.Investigate Citation – Once all submissions have been made, it may take anywhere between 1-2 months until your application has been processed, whereupon you may find out whether your request has been approved or rejected.

9. Attend an interview – After submitting your application, you may be called for an interview with a representative from the Ministry of Interior who will assess your eligibility for citizenship.

10.Appeal a decision (if necessary) – If your application is rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision within 30 days.

11. Take an oath – Upon approval of your application, you will be required to take an oath of allegiance to Slovakia in front of a designated authority.

12. Receive a certificate of citizenship – Once all steps have been completed and your application has been approved, you will receive a certificate of Slovakian citizenship. This document is necessary when applying for a passport and other official documents as proof of your citizenship.

It is recommended that you consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the Ministry of Interior for further guidance and clarification on the citizenship application process.