Slovakia Residence Permit

The residence permit in Slovakia enables foreign citizens to stay in the country for a period that exceeds three months with the possibility to be employed, conduct business activities, study, or reunite with their family. Slovakia, being a member state of the European Union, attracts a number of foreign investors, businessmen, students, and skilled workers.

Main types of residence permits in Slovakia

Application procedure for residence permit

Preparation of documents

Before filing the application, it is necessary to prepare a complete set of documents corresponding to the type of residence permit applied for. Correspondingly, all documents shall be duly executed, translated into the Slovak language, and certified.

Filing the application

The application for a residence permit is filed with the relevant local Office for Migration and Citizenship (Oddelenie cudzineckej polície) in Slovakia or, if the applicant is already residing legally in another state, via the Slovak consulate there. It is a good idea to book an appointment in advance and to have all the documents required for the procedure at your disposal.

Decision-making on application

The residence permit application processing period generally takes 30-90 days, according to the type of permit applied for and depending on the workload of the migration authorities. During this time, the migration authorities check the authenticity of the documents and verify whether the applicant meets the requirements.

Receiving the Decision

An applicant shall, after successful processing of the application, be issued with a residence permit entitling him/her to legally stay in Slovakia for a certain period of time. Depending on the type of permit, a residence permit can be issued for one to five years and may be renewed.

Renewal of residence permit

An application for a residence permit renewal shall be submitted no later than 30 days before its expiration. In this case, the applicant shall be required to submit documents proving the legality of his or her staying in the Republic and/or the grounds for further staying in the country.

Obtaining a residence permit in Slovakia includes multi-stages that need careful preparation and adherence to all legal requirements. The successful passing of all the stages in the process of obtaining residence will widely open opportunities for work, business, studies, and living in Slovakia for foreign citizens. In order to minimize risks of refusal and accelerate the process, it is recommended to seek the assistance of professional legal advisors who will help at all stages of the procedure and ensure successful obtaining of a residence permit in Slovakia.

Types of Slovakian temporary residence permits

Entry and stay of foreigners in Slovakia are highly governed, particularly by Act No. 404/2011 Coll., which differentiates between temporary and permanent types of stay, each for a different purpose and requirement. The main points to consider go as follows:

Temporary stay

A temporary residence permit is issued in connection with stay for purposes that, in particular, will involve the following:

• Commercial activities
• Employment
• Study
• Special activities (e.g., cultural, sports)
• Research and development
• Family reunification
• Service responsibilities of civilian components of the armed forces
• Status of a Slovak living abroad
• Long-term stay in another EU Member State

Temporary residence shall be granted for a period that corresponds to the purpose of stay and ranges up to 5 years.

Permanent residence

Permanent residence is granted to foreigners who can prove long-term ties with Slovakia or fulfil certain criteria:

Five-year residence

Permanent residence for an indefinite period of time

The status of the long-term resident in European Union

Application lodging

Applications for temporary or permanent residence may be filed in person, from abroad at the relevant consulate and, under the conditions stipulated, also at a police authority in the Slovak Republic. Conditions for Application: The applicant must have a valid travel document and must comply with all the requirements laid down by law.

Peculiarities of the national visa

The national visa is the type under which, upon arrival in the Slovak Republic, a third-country national can apply for a residence permit. Long-term stays are usually granted under this type of visa, and it is always submitted with a complete set of documents for the relevant purpose of stay.

Extensions and changes to the conditions of stay

A change in the purpose of temporary residence requires a new application. The period of temporary residence may be extended, taking account of the purpose, for such period as may be necessary.

Important nuances

• The applications and all the attachments thereto are to be submitted in the Slovak language.
• Filing an application is conditional on paying an administrative fee according to tariffs.
• When there is a change in service or the purpose of one’s stay, then a new permit shall be obtained.

These acts provide for severe control and management in immigration into Slovakia so that security for the country is maintained along with the rights of foreign nationals on the territory of the Slovak Republic.

Slovakia allows, as a European Union member state, foreign nationals a possibility to acquire a temporary residence permit for various purposes: work, study, business, or family reunification. A temporary residence permit of the Slovak Republic allows its holder to stay legally in the country for a certain period of time. This period of time depends on the purpose of stay.

Application procedure of a temporary residence permit

Collection and Preparation of Documents

To apply for a temporary residence permit, one needs to gather a complete set of documents, depending on the type of permit that is required. All documents must be prepared in the Slovak language and, if necessary, notarized.

Submitting an Application

Application for a temporary residence permit shall be filed at the competent Office for Migration and Citizenship, Oddelenie cudzineckej polície, of the territory on which the applicant intends to reside in the Slovak Republic or at the Slovak diplomatic mission in the state of applicant’s residence. It is recommended to book the appointment well in advance and submit all the required documents.

Application procedure

The time period taken to process an application differs with the type of residence permit, but usually ranges between 30 and 90 days. This is because during this time, all the documents presented are scrutinised by the migration authorities.

Obtaining residence permit

After the successful processing of the application, a temporary residence permit is issued to the applicant, who has legal residence in Slovakia for a certain period of time.

The temporary residence in the Slovak Republic opens large opportunities for work, business, study, and family reunification of foreign citizens. Each type of residence has its peculiarities and needs that have to be brought into consideration during the preparation of documents and the application itself. Proper preparation and correct execution of all necessary documents raise chances of successful receipt of a temporary residence permit in the Slovak Republic. It is highly recommended to carry out the process with the help of professional legal advisers who will be able to guide you throughout all stages of the procedure and arrange a successful completion of the process.

Duration of a Slovakian temporary residence permit

A temporary residence permit in the Slovak Republic will enable foreign nationals to stay legally in Slovakia for a certain period with various purposes, such as work, studies, business, and family reunification. The length of a temporary residence permit in Slovakia depends on the type of permit and the purpose of stay.

Main types of temporary residence permits and their duration

The procedure of the temporary residence permit extension

Preparation of documents

Extension of the TRP will require creating a so-called package of documents corresponding to this status and confirming the continuation of the grounds for stay: labor contract, business operation, studying, etc. The document should also prove financial solvency and health insurance.

Obtaining an Extension

The application for the extension should be filed with the relevant local Office for Migration and Citizenship – Oddelenie cudzineckej polície no later than 30 days before the expiry date of the current residence.

Consideration of application

This varies according to the residence permit that is applied for, as well as according to the workload at the migration authorities. Usually, it is between 30 to 90 days.

Obtaining a New Permit

After the application for extension has been duly processed, a new temporary residence permit shall be issued for a further period. This will give you further legal stay in the territory of the Slovak Republic under conditions specified in the new permit.

The duration of temporary residence in Slovakia is subject to its type and purpose of stay. For not having any problems with legal staying in the country, one has to duly implement all the conditions and deadlines concerning the submission of documents for the extension. So, such careful preparation and due renewal of your residence permit will allow you not to violate migration legislation and ensure stability in your status in Slovakia. Professional help and recommendations on the issue should be directed to the specialists of migration legislation, who will provide professional assistance in the organization and implementation of the procedure for obtaining and extending a temporary residence permit in Slovakia.

How to apply for a residence permit for Slovakia?

The application for temporary residence in the SR will be submitted through accredited Slovak representations abroad or in the office of the Alien Police in the territory of the Slovak Republic. Your current status and purpose of stay are determining factors regarding the application process.

Basic steps to apply for temporary residence:

Application Filing in Person: It shall be presented in person at a relevant consulate or, in case the applicant has already arrived in the country with a valid visa or by other lawful titles, at the Alien Police Station in Slovakia.

Interview: The representation office shall arrange a personal interview with the applicant for the preliminary assessment of the application.

Required Documents:

Application form completed.

A 3 x 3.5 cm colour photograph.

Stamp Duty: The amount of the fee depends on the purpose of the stay.

A valid passport.

Document confirming the purpose of stay: may include an employment contract, invitation from an educational institution, documents confirming family ties, etc.

Confirmation of Financial Assurance.

Proof of housing in the territory of Slovakia.

Health insurance and medical clearance.

Procedural Features:

Documents issued abroad must be certified (apostille or consular legalisation) and translated into Slovak.

Validity of documents: not older than 90 days from the date of application.

Application processing times vary from 30 to 90 days depending on the type of application and the grounds for stay.

After obtaining a temporary residence permit:

Entry into Slovakia shall be made within 180 days from the date of issue of the permit.

Registration with the police shall be carried out within 3 working days following arrival in Slovakia.

Registration of health insurance within 3 working days of obtaining a residence permit.

A medical report shall be submitted to the relevant foreign police station within 30 days of obtaining a residence permit.

This corresponds to making sure that the stay of foreigners in the Slovak Republic is legally and orderly, within the frames of local legal demands and international norms and standards on processing and security of personal data.

Obtaining a residence permit in Slovakia is the principal step in the whole process of obtaining the right to legally stay on Slovakian territory, for any purpose: for work, studies, enterprise, or reunification with one’s family. And now, the process of getting a residence permit is to be prepared responsibly and to fulfill many formalities. First of all, he shall determine what type of residence permit he will need to obtain:

Preparation for the issuance of a residence permit in Slovakia and the fulfillment of formalities is required. Proper preparation of the documents, understanding of requirements, and following of procedures is the guarantee to successfully obtain a residence permit and legally stay in Slovakia. For more details, please contact the migration law specialists who will assist you in all stages, from preparation to the very end.

 Slovakian temporary residence permit requirements

A Slovakian temporary residence permit is for those aliens who intend to reside in Slovakia for a certain period of time, depending on reasons such as work, studying, business, or family reunification. A temporary residence permit is issued and granted with the fulfilment of a number of formalities and in conformance with certain requirements.

The temporary residence permit in Slovakia needs careful preparation and fulfillment of several conditions. A proper understanding of the type of permit required, the documents needed, careful preparation, and submission of the application well in time will enable you to succeed in the process of getting through with your legal stay in the country. It’s recommended that professional lawyers or migration agents can be consulted for further assistance and compliance with all the formalities.

How to get permanent residence in Slovakia?

The conditions and procedures for granting residence permits to foreigners who are third-country nationals in the territory of the Slovak Republic are developed depending on the foreigner’s status, the purpose of stay, and origin.

It is recommended that for more accurate information and for further facilitation in complying with all legal requirements, one should seek qualified legal experts and official sources from the Slovak government. Permanent residence is usually a very important gateway for several opportunities to be opened to foreign nationals: a residence right, access to social services and health care, and free movement within the Schengen area. Obtaining a residence permit represents several requirements being complied with and steps being taken.

Basic eligibility criteria for permanent residence

The general criteria to be satisfied by any person who will be entitled to permanent residence in Slovakia are as follows:

Long-term residence: In general, a person must reside on the territory of the Slovak Republic as a holder of a temporary residence permit for at least 5 years. In some cases, this period may be shortened.

Good residence manners: You must show that you comply with Slovak law and do not have serious offences.

Financial solvency: Proof of sufficient financial means to live without social assistance.

Language and cultural knowledge: Indication of proficiency in the Slovak language and knowledge of the country’s culture and history in some cases.

Preparation of the necessary documents

Permanent residence application requires the following documents:

1. Completed questionnaire
   • The residence permit application form will be provided by the Slovak Migration and Citizenship Office. Fill it out in Slovak.
2. Valid passport
   • Your passport should have a valid date and with blank pages for visa stamps.
3. Photos
   • Several 3.5cm x 4.5cm current colour photographs will be needed.
4. Documents on current residence status
   • Copies of the temporary residence permit testifying to your legal stay in the Slovak Republic.
5. Documents confirming financial solvency
   • Bank account statements, tax returns, or other documents showing that you have enough money to subsist on.
6. Records of offences
   • Criminal record certificates from your country of citizenship and from all countries where you have lived for more than 6 months in the last 5 years;
7. Health insurance
   • Health insurance policy that would be valid for the entire period of stay.
8. Documents proving knowledge of language and culture
   • Certificates or other documents proving the level of proficiency in the Slovak language and knowledge of the country’s culture and history.

Application process for permanent residence

Make an appointment

• Book an appointment at the Oddelenie cudzineckej polície (Office for Migration and Citizenship) in Slovakia. Sometimes it is possible to book an appointment online or by phone.
• Filing of documents: The applicant should file all collected documents with the local Office for Migration and Citizenship. In some cases, the applicant may need to file the documents to the Slovak Consulate abroad.
• Payment of the fee: Pay the administrative fee for processing the application. The fee may vary depending on the type of permit and other factors.

Going through the interview

• In some cases, you may have to attend an interview, which may test your knowledge of Slovak language and culture.

Awaiting judgement

• Depending on the case workload of the migration authorities, the processing of your residence permit application may take several months or up to one year.

Prolongation and extension of the status

Having obtained permanent residence in Slovakia, you would have to extend your status from time to time—when legally required:

Document Renewal: Typically, the residence permit is to be renewed periodically. Deadlines differ and depend on the type of permit.

Maintenance Requirements: Keep Slovakian laws and maintain financial standing to avoid any potential problems with the renewal of status.

Permanent residence Permit: No renewal is required.

Right to social and health care: Avail of all the rights which shall be provided by local legislation.

Working and business activities: Employment and entrepreneurship are allowed in the country.

The following are the responsibilities to be followed in return:

Compliance: Obey every law and regulation in effect in the country.

Update of your data: In case of any change in status or personal data, it is important that you communicate this to the relevant immigration authorities.

Permanent residence in Slovakia needs not only thorough preparation but also meeting many requirements. Further steps are divided into three main areas: document collection, application submission, and the stage of waiting for a decision by migration authorities. The right performance of all steps with possible consultations with professional lawyers will help you to be successful in this process and secure your legal stay in Slovakia on a permanent basis.

Who and where to apply for permanent residence in Slovakia?

The whole process of application, which eventually leads to permanent residence in Slovakia, is initiated with the submission of an appropriate application form to the relevant competent authorities. More importantly, it is crucial to find out with certainty where documents can be submitted to prevent delays and mistakes.

Main places of application for a residence permit

Below are some institutions to which foreigners can apply for permanent residence in Slovakia:

Preparation for submission of application

It is going to be good if, before filing the application, all necessary documents are prepared in advance and in accordance with the requirements to avoid disappointments from the Slovak authorities.

In some cases, it may be necessary to make an appointment with the Office for Migration and Citizenship beforehand. Check how the appointment is handled in your area.

Payment of the administrative fee

• Pay the administrative fee for processing the application. The fee depends on the type of permit and may vary. Information on the fee can be found on the official website or at the local office.

Application process

1. Submission of documents to the Office for Migration and Citizenship Affairs
   • In person: Submit all collected documents to the local Office of Migration and Citizenship. Make sure that all forms are filled out correctly and all the documents are in order.
   • Through a consulate: In case of application from abroad, the documents should be sent to a Slovak consulate/embassy that will forward them to Slovakia for further processing.
2. Interview
   • In certain cases, you may be called to an interview only just to test your knowledge with regards to the language and culture of the Slovak Republic. Be prepared for this stage beforehand.
3. Awaiting the Verdict
   • After filing, wait for the decision. Depending on the complexity of your case and the workload of the migration authorities, it usually takes from several months to a year before the actual processing takes place.
   • If you are in doubt about something, or it is difficult for you to prepare your documents, consult a migration lawyer or specialist. They will help you to collect and organize your documents correctly.
   • Make sure that your temporary residence permit is valid until you get the permanent residence and so all the legal formalities.

Obtaining permanent residence in Slovakia requires attention and proper following of the overall procedure that is required. To know where and how to apply, what kind of documents will be required, and what further action would be required, one can contact the local Office of Migration and Citizenship or the Slovak Consulate abroad, which can help in the preparation of the documents by you and following all formalities for successfully fulfilling the process in getting permanent residence in Slovakia.

Documents required for permanent residence application in Slovakia

Permanent residence application requires preparation and submission of a series of documents. Correct preparation and submission of all necessary documents are key to successful processing of your application.

Special features:

Payment has to be made in advance and then the receipt attached to the application pack.

The preparation and submission of an application for permanent residence in Slovakia should be done with great care and precise observance of all formalities. The basic documents will include an application form, a valid passport, photos, a proof of financial solvency, a criminal record certificate, health insurance, and proof of language skills. Keep in mind that all the documents should be correctly completed and translated into Slovak for successful processing of your application. Consult with professional advice in order to avoid any mistakes and to speed up the process of residence permit obtaining.

Slovakia residence permit by investment

The residence permit for investment in Slovakia forms one of the most attractive possibilities for foreign investors who are interested in obtaining a long-term stay in the country. This residence permit opens business opportunities, tax benefits, and access to the European market.

Basic conditions for obtaining a residence permit for investments

In order to obtain residence on investment in Slovakia, there are basically the following conditions to be met:

Minimum investment amount: The investor is to invest a certain amount of money into the economy of Slovakia. As of the writing of this book, the minimum investment amount has been 100,000 euros.

Creation of jobs: Sometimes, it will be required that a certain number of jobs are created for the citizens of Slovakia.

Evidence of benefit to the economy: The investments should bring substantial contribution to the economy of the Slovak Republic, such as new technologies, increased possibilities for export, or infrastructure improvements.

The application shall be in the Slovak language, and shall include personal data, information on investments intended and a business plan in general.

Supporting documents on investments

• Proof of an investment, such as contracts, bank statements, confirmation of a wire transfer.

Business plan

• In detail, a business plan on investment goals and strategy, expected outcomes of the investment and their contribution to the economy of the Slovak Republic.

Documents on financial solvency

• Bank statements, tax returns, income statements and other documents proving that you have sufficient funds for investment and living expenses.

Documents confirming legal registration of the business

• If you are setting up a new company, it is necessary to provide documents on its registration in Slovakia, statutory documents and tax registration certificates.

Criminal records

• Criminal record certificates of your country of citizenship and from all countries where you have lived for a period of over 6 months in the last 5 years.
• Health insurance policy for the duration of the stay in Slovakia.
• Documents on current residence status: Copy of the temporary residence permit – only if you already are in the Republic of Slovakia.

Submitting an application

• Make an appointment – one applicant per every booking – if possible, with the embassy/consulate personally.
• Make an appointment at the Office for Migration and Citizenship (Oddelenie cudzineckej polície) in Slovakia or at a Slovak consulate abroad.

Filing of documents

• Submit all collected documents to the designated agency. Make sure that all forms are filled out correctly and that all documents are submitted in full.

Payment of the administrative fee

• Paying the administrative charge to process the application. This may vary; hence, it is always important to inquire from the local office the existent charges at the time.
• Once the application is submitted, it may take some time for review and a decision; this usually takes many months or a year.

Rights and obligations of the investment residence permit holder

Rights:

Right of permanent residence: In case of fulfilling all the conditions, the permit does not need to be renewed.

Right to do business: To legally operate a company and make a profit.

Social services access: Rights to health care and other social services.

Responsibilities:

Adherence to Laws: Comply with all laws and regulations of the locality.

Investment Maintenance: Maintain and develop investments according to the provided business plan.

Updating of documents: Periodic updating of the residence permit and other necessary documents.

Additional Tips

Take the counsel of professionals by consulting, for example, legal or financial experts who will help in preparing your documents correctly and meeting all the requirements.

Follow any changes in the legislative framework: Immigration laws and other regulations change from time to time, so check the official websites regularly to see what the current requirements and changes are.

Obtaining an investment-type residence permit in the Slovak Republic requires serious preliminary preparation and full adherence to all the prescribed requirements. The main stages will be the collection and submission of documents, business plan, and proof of financial solvency, respectively, and following all the rules and procedures. Timely preparation and consultations with professionals will help you to successfully complete the process and secure your long-term stay in Slovakia.

Requirements for obtaining Slovakian residency by investment

A residence permit for investment in Slovakia is a good option to provide foreign investors with the possibility of their long-term stay in the country. Slovakia can offer very favorable conditions for investors who can make a big contribution to the state economy.

Investment in Slovakia for a residence permit involves serious preparation and compliance with all the conditions. It will be needed to prepare all necessary documents, to provide a detailed business plan, explaining what contribution your investment will bring into the economy of the country. Then, attention to all the stages and consultation with professional lawyers will assist you in the successful receipt of the residence permit and long-term staying in Slovakia.

How long does it take to process a Slovakia residence permit?

Applications for residence permits in Slovakia may be a complex and time-consuming process, as many factors may impact this issue.

The processing time of the application for a residence permit in Slovakia depends on many factors, including the type of permit, completeness of the documents, and workload of migration authorities. It may take from 60 to 12 months depending on the case. Careful preparation, on-time submission of the application, and use of professionals’ assistance may speed up the process and minimize the risk of possible delays.

How long after permanent residency can I apply for Slovak citizenship?

Acquiring a permanent residence permit in Slovakia marks one of the important milestones towards Slovak citizenship. Nevertheless, certain conditions of eligibility and statutory time limits must be observed when considering application for Slovak citizenship.

Acquiring Slovak citizenship after a permanent residence permit has some conditions and time limits. Residence on the ground of a permanent residence permit shall be at least 8 years, integrated into the Slovak society, and financially stable. Gathering all the necessary documents, preparing well, and following each step in the procedure will contribute to successful citizenship and long-term residence in Slovakia.

Knowing what citizenship application entails in terms of the process and steps involved, a person will be well-planned for it and will sail through this generally important process. This is, in essence, being on top of matters.

How can Regulated United Europe help with Slovakia residence permit?

Obtaining a residence permit in the Slovak Republic may be considered a strategic step in business and personal development. However, the procedure and conditions of obtaining it may be confusingly complex. A wide range of services offered by the Regulated United Europe law firm will enable substantial facilitation of the whole procedure, especially in the field of entrepreneurial effort.

Full range of services for obtaining a residence permit in Slovakia

Regulated United Europe provides every type of service to make the residence permit obtaining process in Slovakia as easy as possible. Our services include not only consultations on establishing a new enterprise, acquiring a ready-made business, collecting documents, applying, and liaising with relevant authorities but also on how to make it as comfortable and effective for the client as possible in order to successfully go through all the stages of obtaining a residence permit in connection with his business plans in Slovakia.

Plan on opening a business, buying an already operating one, or perhaps obtaining residence in Slovakia? Feel free to contact us for professional assistance and counseling.