Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is a beautiful and vibrant city that attracts visitors from all over the world. Its rich culture, stunning architecture, and affordable cost of living make it an attractive destination for those looking to relocate. However, for non-EU nationals, the process of obtaining a visa can be daunting. In this blog post, we will explore the different visa options available for non-EU nationals who want to live in Bratislava.
Short-stay visa
Depending on your country of origin and the passport you hold, you may or may not need a visa to visit Bratislava short term . If you do not need a visa, keep in mind that starting from 2023 you will need a valid ETIAS application to enter the EU Schengen Area, including Slovakia. (Who needs ETIAS.)
If you are a non-EU national who wants to stay in Bratislava for a short period of time and you require a visa to enter the Schengen Area, you can apply for a short-stay visa. This type of visa allows you to stay in Slovakia for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Short-stay visas are typically issued for tourism, business trips, or family visits.
To apply for a short-stay visa, you will need to submit the following documents:
- A completed application form
- A valid passport
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
- Travel insurance
- A return ticket or proof of onward travel
Long-term visa
If you want to stay in Bratislava for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-term visa. There are several types of long-term visas available, depending on the purpose of your stay. These include:
Employment visa
This type of visa is for those who have been offered a job in Slovakia. To apply for an employment visa, you will need to provide a job contract, proof of qualifications, and proof of financial stability.
Study visa
If you are planning to study in Bratislava, you will need to apply for a study visa. To do this, you will need to provide proof of enrolment in a recognized educational institution, proof of financial stability, and a valid health insurance policy.
Family reunification visa
If you have family members who are Slovak citizens or permanent residents, you can apply for a family reunification visa. To apply for this type of visa, you will need to provide proof of your relationship, proof of financial stability, and a valid health insurance policy.
Business visa
If you are planning to start a business in Slovakia, you can apply for a business visa. To do this, you will need to provide a business plan, proof of financial stability, and a valid health insurance policy.
Permanent residence permit
If you have been living in Slovakia for an extended period of time, you may be eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit. This type of permit allows you to stay in Slovakia indefinitely and provides you with many of the same rights as Slovak citizens.
To apply for a permanent residence permit, you will need to meet certain requirements, including:
- Having a valid long-term visa
- Being able to support yourself financially
- Having a clean criminal record
- Having a valid health insurance policy
There are several visa options available for non-EU nationals who want to live in Bratislava. Whether you are planning to stay for a short period of time or want to make Slovakia your permanent home, it is important to research the different visa requirements and application processes carefully. With the right documentation and preparation, you can make your dream of living in Bratislava a reality.
