Immigration Law at Slovenia
Comprehensive, up-to-date breakdown of immigration law in Slovenia—covering entry, work permits, residence pathways, family reunification, and citizenship:
Legal Framework & Authorities
Immigration is governed by the Aliens Act and Employment of Foreigners Act, with the single permit system simplifying combined work-residence authorization.
Key authorities:
Administrative Units (Upravna enota) handle permit issuance and residence registration.
Employment Service (ZRSZ) assesses labor market needs and permits.
Labour Inspectorate oversees compliance.
Entry & Visitor Options
Visa-exempt citizens can enter Slovenia (and stay up to 90 days within Schengen) without a visa. Others must apply in advance via Slovenian consulates.
A Working Holiday Visa exists for nationals of select countries (e.g., Canada, Australia), allowing up to 1 year of work and residence.
Work & Residence Permits for Non-EU Citizens
Single Permit (Work + Residence)
Replaces separate permits with one combined document.
Eligibility:
Job offer from a Slovenian employer.
Proof that no suitable local candidate exists.
Employment contract (≥1 year), salary meeting at least the minimum wage, plus qualifications and insurance.
Procedure:
Employer submits job to Employment Service for approval.
Applicant and/or employer files application (often with fingerprints).
Processing typically takes 1–3 months.
After approval, register residence within 8 days of arrival.
Flexibility:
Can change employers (with notification).
Work for multiple employers (subject to labor law and notifications).
EU Blue Card (Highly Skilled Workers)
Requires:
University degree.
Employment contract (≥1 year).
Salary ≥1.5× average annual salary (~€43,000 in 2025).
Issued for 2 years and renewable; provides faster track to permanent residency.
Permanent Residency Pathways
After 5 years of continuous legal residence (on valid permits), one may apply for Permanent Residence.
Requirements include:
Proof of financial self-sufficiency.
Slovenian language skills—A2 level per CEFR.
No serious criminal record, and valid health insurance.
Family Reunification
Non-EU residents with valid temporary or permanent permits (minimum 1 year) can sponsor family members:
Spouse, minor children, dependent parents, and potentially extended relatives under special circumstances.
Language prerequisites:
A1 level for temporary residence (family reunification).
A2 level for permanent residency.
Language & Integration Requirements
From November 1, 2024:
Temporary residence (family-based) → A1 Slovenian.
Permanent residence → A2 Slovenian.
Authorities provide free language and integration courses to assist applicants.
Citizenship & Dual Nationality
Paths include:
By descent: Children born in Slovenia to Slovenian parents; children born abroad may register before age 36 or take permanent residence before age 18.
By naturalization: After 10 years of legal residence (including 5 years with PR), with language, integration, and clean record requirements.
Dual citizenship is generally permitted for those by birth or descent. Naturalized citizens may be required to renounce previous citizenship, except in special cases.
2025 Digital Nomad Visa (Coming Soon)
Launching November 21, 2025, for remote workers outside the EU/EEA:
Valid for 1 year, non-renewable.
Requires remote employment and a minimum income (exact amount TBD).
Family members allowed (but cannot work).
Enables travel within Schengen for up to 90 days.
Summary Table
| Category | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Entry Options | Visa-free for many; Working Holiday for select nationals |
| Work & Residence | Single Permit; EU Blue Card for highly skilled |
| Permanent Residency | Eligible after 5 years on valid permits + A2 Slovenian |
| Family Reunification | Allowed with proper permit; language required |
| Citizenship | Through descent or after 10 years residence; dual nationality mostly allowed |
| New Digital Nomad Visa | Launches late 2025, 1-year remote work visa |
Final Thoughts
Slovenia offers a streamlined, structured immigration system for non-EU nationals—combining work and residence in a single permit, easing job transitions, and offering clear routes to permanent residency and citizenship. Language integration is increasingly emphasized. Additionally, the upcoming digital nomad visa makes Slovenia an attractive destination for remote professionals.
Would you like guidance on preparing single permit documentation, integrating via language resources, or tracking updates on the digital nomad visa?
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