Slovakia, a member of the European Union, requires a visa for certain individuals planning to stay for more than 90 days. The Schengen Visa for Slovakia allows entry to all Schengen Area countries, valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Applicants must meet specific requirements, including having a valid travel health insurance, proof of sufficient funds, and a clear reason for travel. The application process includes submitting documents, attending an interview at the Slovak Embassy or Consulate, and paying a fee. It’s essential to apply well in advance of the intended travel date due to processing times.
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Important informations
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Schengen visa application | €60 |
| Children between the age of 6 – 12 years | €35 |
| National of a third country which has concluded a visa facilitation agreement with the European Union | €35 |
| Nationals of Ukraine, Russian Federation, or Belarus (if the visa is to be issued in an accelerated procedure) | €70 |
| Children younger than 6 years old | Free |
Do I Need a Visa to Go to Slovakia?
Citizens of the European Union, Schengen Area countries, and the United States do not require a visa to enter Slovakia for tourism or business stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, travelers from other countries should check the Slovak embassy or consulate in their home country for visa requirements and application procedures. It’s essential to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Slovakia. Non-EU/Schengen visitors may also need to provide proof of sufficient funds, a return ticket, and health insurance coverage during their stay.
Types of Slovakia Visas
Slovakia offers various types of visas for foreigners intending to enter the country for different purposes. The Schengen Visa is the most common type, which allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or attending conferences. For longer stays, such as study, work, or family reunification, separate visas are required. The Student Visa permits the holder to study at a Slovak educational institution, while the Work Visa is issued to those who have secured a job offer from a Slovak employer. The Family Reunification Visa enables family members of Slovak residents to join them in the country. It is essential to apply for the correct visa based on the intended purpose and duration of stay in Slovakia.
Difference Between Slovakia Schengen Visa and Long-Term Visa
Slovakia, a member of the European Union, offers two types of visas for non-EU citizens planning to stay in the country: Schengen Visas and Long-Term Visas. While both allow foreigners to enter and reside in Slovakia, they serve distinct purposes and come with different conditions.
A Schengen Visa is a short-term visa, valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is designed for travelers intending to visit Slovakia for tourism, business, or family purposes. This visa does not allow the holder to work or study in Slovakia. Once the 90-day limit is reached, the visa holder must leave the Schengen Area and wait for at least six months before reapplying.
In contrast, a Long-Term Visa is intended for individuals planning to stay in Slovakia for more extended periods, typically for work, study, or family reunification. This visa can be granted for up to one year and can be extended for subsequent periods. Holders of a Long-Term Visa are permitted to work and study in Slovakia, and they can apply for a permanent residence permit after five years of continuous stay.
In summary, the primary difference between a Slovakia Schengen Visa and a Long-Term Visa lies in their duration and purpose. A Schengen Visa is a short-term visa for travelers, while a Long-Term Visa is for those intending to stay in Slovakia for an extended period for work, study, or family reasons.
Document Checklist for Slovakian Visa
A Document Checklist for a Slovakian Visa is an essential tool for applicants to ensure they submit all necessary documents for their application to be processed. The checklist may vary depending on the type of visa applied for, such as a work visa, student visa, or family reunification visa. However, common documents include a valid passport, completed application form, passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, travel health insurance, and proof of accommodation. Applicants should also provide original and translated documents, certified by a Slovak embassy or consulate, if the original documents are not issued in Slovakia. It is crucial to carefully review the checklist and gather all required documents before submitting the application to avoid delays or denials.
Slovakia Visa Application Process
Slovakia visa application process involves several steps. Applicants must first ensure they meet the eligibility requirements for the desired visa type, such as business, tourism, or work. They can check the Slovak embassy or consulate website for detailed information.
Next, applicants must fill out the online application form and pay the application fee. The form requires personal information, travel plans, and supporting documents, such as a valid passport, proof of financial means, and travel insurance.
Once the application is complete, applicants must schedule an appointment at the Slovak embassy or consulate for an interview. During the interview, applicants will need to provide their original documents and answer questions about their application.
After the interview, the embassy or consulate will process the application and make a decision. Applicants can check the status of their application online. If approved, they will receive a visa sticker in their passport. If denied, they will receive a written explanation.
It’s important to note that the visa application process can take several weeks, so applicants should plan accordingly and apply well in advance of their travel dates.
How Long Does it Take to Process a Slovakia Visa?
Processing times for Slovakia visas can vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. For a standard Schengen visa, the processing time is typically between 15 to 60 days from the date of application. However, in some cases, it may take longer. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well in advance of their intended travel date to allow sufficient time for processing. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee in certain circumstances, such as for urgent travel or humanitarian reasons. It’s important to note that the processing time does not include the time required for delivering the passport with the visa to the applicant. Applicants are advised to check the status of their application online or contact the Slovak embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.
How to Pay The Slovakia Visa Fee?
To pay the Slovakia visa fee, applicants must first complete the online visa application form available on the Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic’s website. Once the application is submitted, applicants will be directed to pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card. The fee amount varies depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s age. For example, a short-stay Schengen visa for adults costs €60, while a short-stay visa for children under six years old is free of charge. Applicants will be prompted to pay the fee during the online application process and will receive a confirmation receipt upon completion. It’s important to note that the visa fee is non-refundable, even if the visa application is denied.
Can I Be Exempt From The Visa Fee?
Certain individuals may be exempt from paying the U.S. visa application fee under specific circumstances. These exemptions include:
1. Avisa applicant under 13 years old or over 79 years old.
2. Avisa applicant holding a diplomatic or official passport.
3. Avisa applicant participating in certain designated international organizations or programs, such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) or the Visa Waiver Program.
4. Avisa applicant who has previously paid the visa application fee and the same fee was not refunded.
5. Avisa applicant applying for a transit visa with a valid onward ticket and staying in the U.S. for less than 29 days.
It is essential to note that these exemptions do not apply to all visa categories and each case is evaluated individually. For more information on visa fee exemptions, consult the U.S. Department of State website or speak with an immigration attorney.
What Can I Do if My Application Is Rejected?
If your job application is rejected, it can be disheartening, but it’s essential to maintain a positive attitude and learn from the experience. First, request feedback from the employer if it’s not already provided. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and adjust your application strategy accordingly. Networking and building professional relationships can also increase your chances of learning about future opportunities. Consider updating your resume and cover letter to better align with the job description and industry trends. Lastly, don’t be discouraged by one rejection. Continue applying to positions that match your skills and career goals, and eventually, you will find the right opportunity.
Entering Slovakia After Receiving a Visa
After receiving a valid Slovak visa, travelers are required to go through specific entry procedures when arriving in Slovakia. At the border or port of entry, they must present their original passport with the visa stamp, completed landing card, and any other required documents, such as proof of health insurance or financial means. Customs officials may ask questions about the purpose and length of the stay, as well as other related matters. Upon satisfying all entry requirements, travelers will be granted entry into Slovakia and permitted to stay for the duration of their visa validity. It is essential to keep the visa and entry stamp in a safe place, as they will be required for any future travels to and from Slovakia.
How Long Can I Stay in Slovakia With a Valid Visa?
A valid visa for Slovakia permits the holder to stay for a specific period, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days, depending on the type of visa granted. For tourism purposes, a Schengen Visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. Business visas may allow stays of up to 180 days per year, while work visas enable the holder to reside and work in Slovakia for the duration of their employment contract. It is essential to adhere to the visa validity period and respect Slovakia’s immigration laws to maintain legal status. Overstaying a visa may result in penalties, including fines and potential denial of entry to Slovakia in the future.
Can I Extend a Slovakian Visa?
If you hold a Slovakian visa and wish to stay in the country for a longer period, you may be able to extend it under certain conditions. The extension process generally involves submitting an application to the Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic before the current visa expires. Eligibility for a visa extension depends on the purpose and category of your initial visa. For instance, business visa holders may be granted extensions if they can prove that the purpose of their stay has not changed and that they still meet the requirements. Similarly, students and employees may also be eligible for extensions, provided they continue to meet the conditions that justified their initial visa issuance. It is essential to note that the extension process can take several weeks, so applicants are advised to apply well before their current visa expires to avoid any potential complications. Applicants should also be prepared to provide all necessary documentation, including proof of financial means, travel insurance, and a valid passport.
Fun Facts About Slovakia
Slovakia, a land-locked country in Central Europe, is rich in history and natural beauty. Here are some fun facts that highlight its unique characteristics. Slovakia is home to the highest peak in Central Europe, Mount Gerlachovsky, reaching an elevation of 2,655 meters. The country is also known for its stunning castles, with over 100 spread across its territory. One of the most famous is Spis Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Slovakia’s capital city, Bratislava, is the smallest among European capitals, making it an easy and charming place to explore. The country is also famous for its traditional handcrafts, including wooden toys, lace, and pottery. Slovakia’s national dish, bryndzpesto, is a delicious potato dish made with sheep’s cheese and bacon. Lastly, Slovakia is home to the world’s largest bell, the Bell of Peace, which weighs over 21 tons and is located in the town of Bojnice.
Eligible countries
- EU nationals and citizens of other Schengen countries
- Citizens from the USA, Britain, Canada, Australia, Japan, etc. (for stays up to 90 days)
These nationalities do not need a visa to enter Slovakia. For other nationalities, the following types of Slovakia visas are available:
- Slovakia Tourist (Schengen) Visa
- Slovakia Transit Visa
- Slovakia Work Visa
- Slovakia Student Visa
- Slovakia Family Visa
The choice between a Schengen (Tourist) visa and a long-term visa depends on the length of stay and the purpose of travel. The document checklist includes a completed visa application form, valid passport, passport-sized photos, itinerary of travel, proof of accommodation, travel health insurance, and a cover letter, among other documents. The visa application process involves choosing the visa type, scheduling an appointment, filling out the application form, gathering the documents, and submitting the application. The usual processing time is from 10 to 15 days, but it may be delayed due to COVID-19 or other circumstances. The visa fee can be paid in a convertible currency or in the local currency of the application location. Certain categories of applicants may be exempted from paying the visa fee. If an application is rejected, an appeal can be made to the diplomatic mission that issued the decision. After receiving a visa, foreign nationals must inform the competent Foreign Police Department about their place and the estimated length of their stay within three days of entering Slovakia. A Slovakia national (D) visa is issued for up to one year and can be extended if necessary. Slovakia has many unique features, including its high number of castles and chateaux per capita, the largest natural freshwater supplies after Austria, and the fact that Bratislava is the only capital in the world that borders two countries.
Summary
* Slovakia is a country in Central Europe requiring a visa for most foreign nationals, including those from the USA, Canada, Australia, and Japan for stays longer than 90 days.
* Types of Slovakia visas include tourist (Schengen), transit, work, student, and family visas.
* A Schengen visa allows entry to Slovakia and the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, while a long-term visa is required for stays longer than 90 days.
* Required documents for a Slovakia visa application include a completed application form, valid passport, passport-sized photos, itinerary of travel, proof of accommodation, travel health insurance, and bank statement.
* The visa application process involves choosing the visa type, scheduling an appointment, filling out the application form, gathering documents, and submitting the application in person.
* The processing time for a Slovakia visa application is typically 10-15 days but may be delayed due to COVID-19 or other circumstances.
* The visa fee is €60 for a Schengen visa application, with exemptions for certain categories of applicants.
* If a visa application is rejected, applicants can appeal the decision within 15 days and pay an administrative fee of €80.
* After receiving a visa, foreign nationals must report their place and length of stay to the competent Foreign Police Department within three days of entering Slovakia.
* Slovakia visas are issued for single or multiple entries and have a validity period based on the purpose of the visit.
* Slovakia has many unique features, including being the only capital city that borders two countries, having the highest wooden altar and tallest cave column in the world, and having the lowest birth rate.