Since 15 July 2026 Slovakia has updated rules for the residence of foreigners. Act No. 128/2026 Coll. amends Act No. 404/2011 Coll. on the Residence of Foreigners and several other laws. The aim is to speed up and simplify national visa and residence proceedings, cut paperwork and at the same time tighten some conditions for entrepreneurs. Below is what matters for our clients.
Single permit for residence and employment
The biggest change for workers: residence and employment are now covered by one permit. Until now a third-country national handled residence at the foreign police and the work permit or labour office confirmation separately. The single permit merges the two into one document.
For clients this means fewer visits to authorities and a clearer procedure. Preparation is still needed: documents proving the purpose of stay (employment contract or job offer) and proof of housing remain the core of the application.
Protection period after losing a job
If a person with residence for employment loses their job, they now have a protection period of 3 to 6 months (depending on the permit length) to find new work. Residence does not end during this time. The amendment also allows an extension for people who were exploited at work.
In practice: losing a job no longer automatically means losing residence, but the clock starts on day one. We recommend contacting us right away, not when the period is about to end.
Employing people with temporary protection
An employer may keep employing a person with temporary protection after it ends if the employment continues without interruption. This matters for thousands of Ukrainians who work in Slovakia under temporary protection and will be moving to temporary residence.
Deadlines for authorities
- Decision on residence for study: within 30 days; for employment (single permit) within 60 days, otherwise within 90 days.
- Issue of the residence document after the decision: within 30 days.
- The law provides for the owner’s electronic consent via eID; the service is not running yet, until then a notarised signature applies.
- At most offices the photo for the residence card is taken directly at the police (check with your office).
Business: stricter conditions
For sole traders and company managers the amendment tightens checks on whether the business is real. Taxable income is expected, companies must have paid the minimum tax, and there must be zero debts to the tax office, customs, the Social Insurance Agency and the health insurer.
If you hold residence for business, check your accounting and arrears before renewal. This is the first thing we check.
EU citizens
The first residence registration of an EU citizen is now valid for 10 years (previously 5). Via the booking system the application can be filed at any foreign police office.
What to do now
- If your permit expires in the coming months, start the renewal early, deadlines and documents have changed.
- If you changed or lost your job, count your protection period and contact us.
- If you run a business, check arrears at the tax office and insurers.
- Take our questionnaire, it shows exactly what you need for your situation.
FAQ
Does the single permit apply to people who already have residence? Existing permits remain valid until they expire. The new rules apply at the next application or renewal.
Do I need to do anything immediately? No, if your permit is valid and nothing changes. The changes affect you at your next filing.
Where is the exact wording? Act No. 128/2026 Coll. is in the Collection of Laws, link below.
Sources
Does this affect you?
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This is a short summary of public news with links to sources, not legal advice. We will clarify details for your situation in the chat.