There are a number of administrative formalities that apply to expatriates who wish to live and work in Slovakia. A visa may or may not be required, depending on whether your home country has a bilateral agreement with Slovakia.
It’s recommended that you also bring along all of the following documents, which may be necessary to meet legal, employment or educational requirements:
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Diplomas and CV
- Children’s school records
- Medical records
- Vaccination schedules
- Driving license
- Proof of health insurance
- Employment contract
- Lease agreement/purchase contract
- Criminal background check
The necessary confirmation for a residence permit of EU citizens can be obtained from the Slovak Foreign Police. It is required to submit a passport, two passport photos, an employment contract, and a notarized lease agreement or proof of homeownership.
Non-EU citizens must first apply in person for a temporary residence permit, which can be done at the Slovak Embassy or Consulate in the home country. This will allow you to stay in Slovakia for up to one year for business and/or educational purposes.
There are a number of things you should do prior to leaving your home country to minimize or eliminate potential problems down the road. It is recommended to notify all banks and credit card companies of your relocation. Nowadays you can arrange for online payment of bills in most situations. Ensure that you have packed all documents, bring a generous supply of any prescription medications you may require, beware that electronic appliances from your home country may not work in Slovakia. In case you are bringing your family pet, ensure that they have a pet passport (for EU citizens) or a veterinary health certificate (non-EU citizens).
For more detailed info regarding residency permits for EU and non EU citizens we suggest you visit:
Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic
IOM Migration Information Centre