Slovakia is a member of the Schengen Area. Citizens of many countries can enter Slovakia without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180 days for tourism, business, or family visits. Visa-free countries include EU/EEA countries, the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and others. Citizens from non-visa-exempt countries must obtain a visa before traveling.

Passport requirements:

• Valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay.
• Issued within the past 10 years.
• Must have at least two blank pages.

Official visa guidance is available on the Ministry’s website.

This short-stay visa allows entry for up to 90 days in 180 days. It is valid for Slovakia and other Schengen countries. It’s typically used for tourism, business, cultural events, short-term studies, or family visits. You can apply at the Slovak Embassy or Consultate in your country of residence. A prior appointment is ussually required. Processing time is typically 15 calendar days, but can be extended to 30 or 60 days in exceptional cases.

Documents required:

• Completed application form.
• Passport photo.
• Valid passport.
• Travel insurance (min. €30,000 coverage).
• Proof of accommodation.
• Proof of sufficient financial means.
• Travel itinerary or return ticket.

A National Visa is issued for stays in Slovakia exceeding 90 days and often serves as a precondition for obtaining temporary residence. This type of visa is typically granted for purposes such as long-term study, employment, family reunification, or volunteering.

Key facts:

• Can be single or multiple-entry.
• Usually valid for up to 1 year.
• Must be followed by a residence permit application in Slovakia if staying long-term.

Slovakia has bilateral working holiday agreements with countries like Australia, Canada, Japan, and New Zealand. These allow young travelers (usually 18–30 or 35) to work and travel in Slovakia for up to one year.

All foreigners must register with local authorities. If staying in a hotel or hostel, the accommodation provider will handle this. If staying in private housing, the host or the foreigner must register with the Foreigners’ Police within 3 working days.

Overstaying your permitted duration in Slovakia can lead to serious consequences, including:

• Administrative fines up to €1,600.
• Deportation orders.
• Temporary entry bans to Slovakia or the Schengen Area.

Travelers entering or leaving Slovakia with €10,000 or more in cash or equivalent must declare it to customs.

All travelers should have valid travel health insurance covering potential medical expenses in Slovakia. A policy with a minimum coverage of €30,000 is mandatory for visa applicants.