Obtaining a residence permit

To move or reside long-term in the European Union, you need to obtain a residence permit (RP) in one of the EU countries, such as Slovakia. In comparison, temporary protection is granted only for a limited time and comes with restrictions (e.g., it is not possible to start a business like an individual entrepreneur or a limited liability company), while a biometric passport allows Ukrainian citizens to stay in Schengen countries only for up to 90 days every six months.

Citizens or permanent residents of other EU countries (e.g., Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia) or Israel also require a residence permit for extended stays in Slovakia.

We recommend obtaining a residence permit in Slovakia by starting a private enterprise (individual entrepreneur) or a company (Ltd. or S.R.O.), which could be a small or micro-business (without employees).

Residence Permit in Slovakia: Key Information

Obtaining a residence permit in Slovakia requires a valid reason. According to the Slovak Foreigners’ Residence Act, you can apply for an RP under the following categories:

1. Business immigration – as an individual entrepreneur or director of an S.R.O.
2. Education – studying in secondary schools (up to 20 years old) or higher education institutions in Slovakia;
3. Employment.
4. Special activities (athletes, volunteers, musicians, etc.).
5. Blue Card (an opportunity for highly qualified specialists).
6. Family reunification is automatically allowed under any of the above grounds.

Obtaining an RP in Slovakia based on business, education, or family reunification is practically guaranteed. However, other grounds may depend on external factors (e.g., government policy, labor ministry quotas, the country’s interest), and therefore, the approval of the application cannot be guaranteed.

Most RPs are issued for 1.5–2 years. Upon expiration, you must renew the RP by meeting specific legal requirements, such as maintaining a company with a minimum net profit or residing in Slovakia for at least 185 days annually.

After five consecutive years of holding an RP without interruptions, you can apply for permanent residency (PR), which does not need to be renewed. This also means that the original grounds for the RP (business, education, etc.) are no longer required.

RP in Slovakia for Education: Features

Obtaining an RP in Slovakia for education purposes is available to any foreign citizen regardless of age. The main criterion is enrollment in an educational institution in Slovakia, such as a secondary school, university, preparatory courses, or even Slovak language courses.

The advantages of obtaining an RP in Slovakia are significant. These include unlimited stay within Schengen countries and the potential to acquire PR and eventually immigrate to other EU countries.

The main advantages of applying for an RP in Slovakia include:

1. Duration: The maximum term for an RP for education is six years, compared to three years for business activity or five years for family reunification. However, in practice, the police usually limit the RP to the duration of the education period.
2. No fees: No administrative fee is required when applying for an RP for education. By comparison, an RP for business activities requires a fee of €232, and an RP for employment requires €165.50.
3. Entrepreneurial opportunities: During the validity of the RP for education, there is an option to engage in entrepreneurial activities. For example, you can register as a private entrepreneur or establish a limited liability company. According to the law, an RP for education can be converted to an RP for business during the study period.

For instance, you can initially obtain an RP in Slovakia for studying Slovak language courses and then convert it to an RP for business activity.

1. Work during studies: Holders of an RP for education in Slovakia can work up to 10 hours per week or a corresponding number of hours per year without requiring additional work permits. Alternatively, it is possible to obtain a work permit to work unlimited hours.

If the RP is issued for business activities, work is not allowed, and vice versa—an RP for employment does not allow for business activities.

1. Insurance: Health insurance is required for obtaining an RP on any grounds. However, for RPs issued for education, insurance is not mandatory.

A residence permit in Slovakia offers the opportunity to obtain a quality education at a European university and a diploma recognized throughout the EU. For those planning to move to Slovakia, an RP for education can be an excellent starting point for business or employment opportunities.

By obtaining an RP for Slovak language courses, you can gradually familiarize yourself with the country’s economic environment, identify suitable niches, and start work or business activities with language proficiency and a better understanding of Slovakia’s internal structure.

RP in Slovakia: Moving to the Country

Often, individuals who travel abroad for studies eventually decide to move permanently. Obtaining an RP in Slovakia is the first step in this process.

Initially, the traveler meets with family members or acquaintances to arrange a transfer schedule. Depending on the starting date of work or the flight date, they plan the packing of personal belongings for shipment to Slovakia.

Until recently, families relied on international maritime shipping for moving apartments abroad. However, in the past two years, maritime shipping costs have risen significantly, leading many families to reconsider sending heavy containers with furniture, appliances, and all personal belongings.

Instead, many families opt to send only the personal items needed for long-term living abroad, such as clothing, books, and children’s toys. They often donate furniture and appliances or store them locally. The approach saves on shipping costs and allows families to purchase new items upon arrival.

When relocating to Slovakia, logistical challenges arise because the country lacks a seaport. Consequently, maritime shipments arrive in Trieste, Italy, or a German port, depending on supply feasibility, and are transported overland to Slovakia. When exploring how to obtain an RP in Slovakia, these details are worth considering.

A preferred option for many families is to travel with suitcases only. Using this method, family members pack essential belongings into suitcases or boxes for their new home. Collaborating with Ben-Gurion Airport, the family is picked up by a large minibus for both their luggage and personal travel.

Upon reaching the airport, they are guided through a unique process, saving time during security checks. All luggage is handled directly by airport staff and loaded onto the same flight as the family members.

Moving to Slovakia often involves visa arrangements to allow employment in the country. Generally, visas are prepared before the family arrives. However, delays can occur, and experienced contacts help liaise with government offices to expedite the process, ensuring families can work upon arrival.

Families often have plans for a transitional period, such as living in Slovakia, enrolling in schools, traveling to beautiful sites, and enjoying life different from what they knew in Israel.

Each shipment, whether by sea or air, requires comprehensive insurance coverage for full compensation in case of damage or loss during transit.

What Is a Residence Permit in Slovakia?

An RP in Slovakia is a chance to familiarize yourself with the country. Under Slovak law, the police may issue temporary RPs in 2024 to individuals who:

• Own a business or hold a Blue Card;
• Have permanent or seasonal employment;
• Are enrolled in academic or research activities;
• Arrived for peacekeeping missions;
• Are Slovak citizens residing abroad;
• Have long-term residency rights in another EU country.

Eligibility for Permanent Residence

A permanent residence card with unlimited validity may be issued to spouses of Slovak citizens, residents with permanent residence rights in the country, or dependents of family members in Slovakia. This includes:

• Minors under 18 years of age placed under the care of a Slovak resident;
• Children born to Slovak citizens or under their guardianship with a residence card valid for at least five years;
• Individuals with disabilities or those unable to sustain themselves due to health conditions, granted residence under exceptional circumstances.

The Ministry of the Interior (MOI) can also issue expedited permanent residence permits to:

• Foreign nationals without citizenship in other countries;
• Legal adults holding valid temporary residency;
• Minors entering Slovakia unaccompanied to attend school for at least three years, during which the state ensures additional protection;
• Individuals under witness protection programs;
• Foreign nationals deemed valuable to Slovak security or defense agencies.

The processing time for such applications is typically no longer than 90 days from the submission date.

Conditions for Obtaining a Residence Permit

When seeking an RP in Slovakia, the first step is meeting specific legal requirements. Submit a completed application and required documentation to a Slovak immigration police department or consulate in your country of residence. The key requirements include:

• A minimum of €4,400 in the entrepreneur’s business account and €2,650 in their personal account;
• Proof of property ownership or rental for both personal and business use;
• Registration of a new business or employment contract in Slovakia.

The applications of primary applicants and their family members can be processed simultaneously. Depending on the applicant’s purpose, temporary or permanent residence cards may be issued:

1. Temporary residence – Valid for 2, 3, 5, or 6 years. Reasons may include employment, business ownership, or education.
2. Permanent residence – Valid for five years and renewable. Applicants must have lived in Slovakia for at least five years or hold long-term EU residency.

How to Obtain a Residence Permit in Slovakia?

An RP in Slovakia provides access to rights equivalent to Slovak citizens. These rights include:

• Free healthcare and insurance;
• Pension and other social benefits;
• Child benefits and tax credits;
• Free education in Slovak-language schools, colleges, and universities;
• Work authorization in Slovakia and throughout the EU.

With a Slovak RP, you can also engage in business activities across the EU, such as managing local companies or operating as a private entrepreneur.

To start the application process, submit the following documents:

1. A criminal record certificate for individuals aged 14 and above;
2. Proof of accommodation, such as utility bills, payment receipts, rental agreements, or ownership documents;
3. A passport valid for at least six months;
4. Two passport-sized color photographs (3 x 3.5 cm);
5. Evidence of the purpose of residence, such as a marriage certificate, company incorporation documents, or a certificate of entrepreneurial activity;
6. Financial proof, including bank statements with at least 12 months’ worth of living expenses or a letter from your employer;
7. A medical certificate from a licensed health institution;
8. A notarized parental consent (translated into Slovak) for children under 18 applying for RP.

The processing time for an RP varies by case. Applicants must submit documents in person at the Slovak immigration office or consulate in their country.

After five years of uninterrupted residency, you may apply for PR or citizenship.

Basis for Residence Permit Approval

Common reasons for RP approval include business ownership, family reunification, employment, or study. Entrepreneurs benefit from low taxation (15% on profits) and annual tax declarations. Residence permits for business require:

1. An investment of at least €50,000, which may include real estate or equipment purchases;
2. A monthly business turnover of €10,000+ for six months;
3. Employment of an EU or Slovak resident for six months.

Additionally, students, pensioners, and dependents may qualify for RPs with fewer requirements.

Residence Permit Costs

The total cost of an RP includes fees for documentation, real estate searches, business registrations, and insurance. For a detailed cost breakdown, contact Togetthere consultants for personalized assistance. We guarantee efficient and transparent service to help you achieve your residency goals.
Partnering with Togetthere: Key Advantages

1. Efficiency: Prompt processing of applications and requirements.
2. Reliability: Years of trusted experience in RP assistance.
3. Comprehensive services: Full support for business and legal queries.
4. Competitive pricing: Pay only for required services.
5. Expert guidance: Free consultations for informed decision-making.

Trust Togetthere to secure your Slovak RP effortlessly and effectively. Contact us to learn more.