Changes to the Aliens Residence Act from July 1, 2025

The Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic has approved a comprehensive amendment to Act No. 404/2011 Coll. on the Residence of Foreigners, which will enter into force on 1 July 2025. The aim of the legislative changes is to streamline processes at the Aliens Police Department, minimize bureaucracy and prevent overloading of systems when processing residence permits for third-country nationals.

Extension of validity of national visa

• The validity of the national visa is extended from 90 to 120 days .
• The purpose is to provide more time to book an appointment at the Aliens Police .
• The reservation system becomes a legal obligation - a visit without an appointment will no longer be possible.
• Expected result: reduction of departmental overload and prevention of conflicts .

Introduction of quotas for business stays

• Temporary residence for business purposes will be granted for 3 years.
• Applications will be submitted exclusively at Slovak embassies abroad.
• Quotas are set by the government annually through regulation.
• Each application will also be assessed by the Ministry of Economy from the perspective of its benefit to the economy.
• Mandatory attachment: business plan and all documents in Slovak .
• Citizens with a valid temporary residence permit can only start a business after 2 years of residence .

Simplifying documentation

• A color photo will no longer be necessary - the police are collecting biometric data.
• A translation of the proof of financial security will not be required (except for selected purposes).
• New rule: a current confirmation of the account balance is sufficient , not 3 months' statements.

More efficient action and agenda shifting

• Expanding the possibilities to delegate the processing of stays to other departments of the Police Force .
• It concerns, for example, EU citizens , their family members or applications for permanent residence .
• Goal: relieve overloaded departments and increase service availability.

Accelerated legislative procedure

Given the urgency and practical problems on the ground, the government approved an accelerated legislative process . The amendment to the law will enter into force on July 1, 2025 .

Practical impact on employers and foreigners

• Mandatory reservations for appointments at the Aliens Police.
• Business control through quotas and benefit assessment.
• Fewer documents , but increased language editing requirements.
• It is recommended to plan administrative steps well in advance.

Tip for foreign workers and employers

We recommend preparing all documents in advance, especially for business or temporary stays . Do not underestimate preparation in Slovak and check the current quotas for the given calendar year.

Are you also interested in an English version of this article or an information leaflet for foreign workers? We will be happy to prepare it - just contact us.