Quick Guide to Residence Permit in Slovakia
There are 3 main categories of Slovak residence permit: temporary, permanent, and special. To obtain one of these statuses, a person must submit an official application to the relevant authorities.
Temporary Residence Permit
A foreigner can live, travel, and return to Slovakia. Permits are issued for one purpose only. The main purposes of a temporary residence permit Slovakia are:
- work;
- business;
- research;
- study;
- family reunification;
- performance of special duties;
- Slovak status abroad;
- long-term EU resident status.
If the purpose changes, a new application is required. It is possible to study during the stay. “Blue Card” for qualified specialists.
Permanent Residence
This type of residence entitles you to live and enter the country freely. It can be for 5 years or indefinitely. It is also available to holders of EU long-term resident status.
The permanent Slovakia residence permit cost is 250 euros. If you are under 18 years of age or married to a Slovak citizen, you don’t need to pay this fee.
Special Residence
Issued in special cases. For example, if deportation is impossible, travel is not feasible, or family life needs to be preserved. Also applies to victims of human trafficking.
The term is limited. Usually up to 90 days, sometimes with an extension. May be related to departure, quarantine, or legal proceedings.
How is the Issuance of Residence Permits Regulated?
A Slovak residence permit is always linked to a specific purpose - work, study, or business. The permit usually limits activities to this specific area.
Sometimes there are exceptions. For example, students are allowed to work a few hours a week. However, if a person wants to do something else, they need to change the purpose of their residence.
The application must be submitted in person. It helps to confirm your identity and pass an interview.
