Immigration
EU free movement with temporary residence tied to purpose
EU citizens move freely. Third-country nationals apply under the 2011 Act on the Residence of Foreigners for temporary residence tied to a specific purpose such as employment, business or study, with permanent residence generally after five years.
Key rules
- Temporary residence is granted for a defined purpose and lapses if the purpose ends.
- Employment usually requires a confirmation of a vacancy or a single permit.
- Permanent residence normally follows five years of continuous temporary residence.
- Registration of residence with the foreign police is required within statutory deadlines.
Governing law
- Act on the Residence of Foreigners (404/2011)Principal immigration statute.
- Asylum Act (480/2002)International protection.
- Citizenship Act (40/1993)Naturalisation and loss of citizenship.
In practice
Acquiring another nationality can cost Slovak citizenship under the 2010 rules, though a 2022 amendment carved out long-term residents of the other state.