Temporary residence, permanent residence and citizenship of Slovenia

General concepts and basic immigration terms

Contents

Temporary residence permit

A temporary residence permit is a temporary authorisation for long-term residence in the country. The first temporary residence permit in Slovenia is usually issued for 2 years (Blue Card - up to 2 years), with subsequent extensions. A residence permit for study is issued for the duration of the studies, for a maximum of 1 year with annual renewal.

Rights with a temporary residence permit

With a Slovenian temporary residence permit, you can:

  • Travel freely across Schengen countries without visas
  • Open bank accounts in the EU
  • Children of residents can attend state schools free of charge on equal terms with citizens

Permanent residence

Permanent residence in Slovenia is granted for 10 years and is then renewed automatically. It grants almost all the rights of citizens (working without restrictions, using healthcare and social insurance, studying at universities on state-funded places, and so on) except for political rights (you cannot vote or be elected).

Conditions for obtaining permanent residence

Continuous residence of 5 years on a temporary residence permit. There is a nuance for students: years of residence on a student temporary residence permit count for half (1 year as 6 months) - therefore, if all 5 years you held a study-based permit, you will need to reside for 10 years to obtain permanent residence.

Slovenian citizenship

Slovenian citizenship is the highest status. Conditions: 10 years of residence (5 years on a temporary residence permit + 5 years on permanent residence) for business immigration or employment. Reductions: if you obtain higher education in Slovenia, you can apply 7 years after your first temporary residence permit.

Warning: there are fraudulent firms promising fast-track acquisition of citizenship for money. The Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia officially warns that no one can act as an intermediary in obtaining citizenship on behalf of the authorities. It is impossible to buy Slovenian citizenship; you must go through all the established stages. Be vigilant and do not trust such promises.

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The information on this page is general and current as of the publication date; it is not individual legal advice. Rules and figures change - confirm the exact conditions for your case at a consultation.