Visa & Residency

No, Slovakia does not currently offer a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa. The closest option is the Trade Licence (Živnosť) for self-employed individuals, but from July 2025 business residence permits are capped at 700/year with stricter requirements. EU citizens can work remotely without restrictions. Non-EU digital nomads often use the 90-day Schengen tourist stay.

Dramatically. In 2024, Slovakia issued 10,256 business residence permits. From July 2025, the quota is just 700/year for all nationalities. Applications must now be submitted at consulates in your home country (not in Slovakia), and a detailed business plan is mandatory. This effectively closes the easy freelancer residency route that attracted many expats.

Technically, remote work for a non-Slovak employer during a 90-day tourist stay is a legal grey area. You are not working 'in' the Slovak labour market, but you don't have formal authorisation either. Many digital nomads do this discreetly. If you plan to stay longer, you need a residence permit.

The trade licence itself is issued in 3–5 working days and costs just €5 for unregulated trades. However, the associated Temporary Residence Permit for Business takes 30–90 days and, since July 2025, must be applied for at a consulate in your home country within the annual quota.

Yes, since a 2022 amendment Slovakia permits dual citizenship. Previously, acquiring another citizenship could result in loss of Slovak citizenship. This change benefits expats who want to naturalise without giving up their original passport.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens have an unrestricted right to live and work in Slovakia. You must register with the Foreigners Police within 10 working days of arrival if staying longer than 3 months. Registration is straightforward and grants a Residence Certificate valid for 5 years.