Temporary residence

What it means

Temporary residence is a permit allowing a third-country national to stay in Slovakia for a set period and a specific purpose, such as employment, business, study, research or family reunification. It is issued by the foreign police, and its validity is tied to the duration of the purpose.

For Slovak citizens the term means something else: registering a temporary address alongside their permanent residence, for example while studying or working in another town. It is mainly a matter of registration and does not change the place of permanent residence.

For foreigners the purpose is key. Residence for business follows the rules on business activity of foreign nationals, residence for employment the single permit, and highly qualified workers can obtain the EU Blue Card. Changing the purpose requires a new application.

How it works in practice

The application is supported by documents depending on the purpose: for business, a business plan and proof of funds; for employment, an employment contract or confirmation that the vacancy may be filled. Proof of accommodation, health insurance and a clean criminal record is always required.

An employer hiring a foreigner must check that they hold valid residence allowing work and must meet its reporting duties towards the labour office. Employing foreign nationals without valid authorisation brings heavy fines and exclusion from public procurement and grants.

A renewal must be applied for before the permit expires. After several years of continuous temporary residence, a foreigner may qualify for permanent residence, which offers a more stable status and broader access to the labour market.

What to watch out for

Residence is tied to its purpose. If a foreigner with residence for employment stops working or changes employer without meeting the conditions, they may lose their residence. Likewise, a company that stops operating puts its third-country member's residence at risk.

Procedures take a long time and document requirements are strict, including official translations and legalisation. An incomplete application is returned for completion, which drags out the process, so it pays to prepare well in advance.