Permanent Residence (Act No. 404/2011 Coll.)

You can apply for permanent residence in Slovakia through three different pathways: Permanent residence for five years (usually for family members of Slovak citizens), Permanent residence for an unlimited period (for those who have already held the 5-year permit for at least 4 years), or Long-term residence (for those who have lived in Slovakia for 5 uninterrupted years).

The application must be submitted in person. If you are currently abroad, you must apply at the Slovak Embassy or Consulate in your country. If you are already legally in Slovakia, you must book an appointment and apply at the local Cudzinecká polícia (Foreign Police Department).

Step 1: Gather and Translate Documents

All documents you submit (except your passport) must be no older than 90 days on the day you hand them in. If your documents were issued outside of Slovakia, they must be apostilled or super-legalized to be recognized. You must then have them translated into Slovak by an official sworn translator.

Step 2: Book an Appointment

The Foreign Police use an online booking system that is highly competitive. Slots often open at midnight and fill up almost immediately. It is recommended to secure your appointment before finalizing documents that have a strict 90-day expiration date.

Step 3: Submit the Application

Visit the Foreign Police or Embassy in person to submit your file. You will need:

• The Application Form: Completed in Slovak.
• Passport: A valid travel document.
• Photos: Two color photos (3 x 3.5 cm).
• Proof of Purpose: Such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate proving your relationship to a Slovak citizen.
• Criminal Record Clearance: From your home country and any country where you lived for more than 90 days in a 6-month period over the last 3 years.
• Financial Proof: A bank statement showing at least €3,300 (12 times the subsistence minimum).
• Proof of Accommodation: A notarized lease agreement or a List Vlastníctva (ownership title).
• Health Insurance: Proof of coverage in Slovakia.

Step 4: The Interview and Decision

An officer may conduct a brief interview to verify your details. The police have 90 days to issue a decision. During this time, they will verify your documents and may visit your place of residence.

Step 5: Biometrics and Medical Report

Once approved, you will visit the police to provide biometric data for your residence card. Within 30 days of receiving your permit, you must submit a medical report from a specific Slovak clinic confirming you do not have a disease that threatens public health.

Total Estimated Cost: Approximately €450 – €600 (excluding legal fees). Note: This does not include costs for apostilles in your home country, travel expenses, or optional legal consultancy fees which typically range from €1,000 to €1,500.

• Official Decision Window: The Foreign Police must decide on your application within 90 days of receiving a complete file.
• Document Validity: Most supporting documents (criminal records, bank statements) are only valid for 90 days from their date of issuance.
• Card Issuance: After approval, your physical residence card will be delivered within 2 to 30 days, depending on the fee paid.
• Medical Report Deadline: You must complete your medical exam and submit the results within 30 days of your permit being granted.
• Regional Variations: Expect the full 90-day wait time in major hubs like Bratislava or Trnava due to high application volumes.