architecture bratislava bratislava castle building
Immigration

What is the minimum period of residence in Slovakia necessary to be eligible for Slovak citizenship?

October 24, 2023

QUESTION
I’d like to inquire about the possibility of applying for Slovak citizenship. I’m a permanent resident of Serbia, but I hold Slovak nationality. I’ve been living in Bratislava since 2015, where I completed my university education. In 2018, I married a Slovak woman. Currently, I run a business in Slovakia, pay for my own health insurance, and contribute to social services. Having Slovak citizenship would be more cost-effective and beneficial for my future since I live and work in Slovakia. If you could provide guidance on the process of obtaining citizenship, I’d greatly appreciate it.

THE ANSWER
The acquisition and loss of Slovak citizenship are regulated by Act No. 40/1993 Coll. on the Citizenship of the Slovak Republic, also known as the “Citizenship Act.”

One of the prerequisites for obtaining Slovak citizenship is a legal residence in the territory of the Slovak Republic immediately before applying for citizenship. The specific duration of this residency requirement depends on individual circumstances. If you, as a foreign-born Slovak citizen, hold a certificate confirming the status of a Slovak living abroad, you can apply for Slovak citizenship under the provisions of § 7 par. 3 of the Citizenship Act. In this case, you must have continuously resided in the Slovak Republic for at least three years immediately preceding your application.

If you do not possess the certificate for a Slovak living abroad and are married to a Slovak citizen, and if your marriage has lasted for at least five years while living together in a joint household in the territory of the Slovak Republic immediately before applying for Slovak citizenship, you may be eligible for citizenship.

It’s worth noting that, in the absence of marriage to a Slovak citizen, you would need to have a continuous permanent residence in the Slovak Republic for at least eight years immediately before submitting your application for Slovak citizenship.

These are the key considerations for acquiring Slovak citizenship, and the specific requirements may vary based on your circumstances. For a more detailed and accurate assessment of your eligibility and guidance on the application process, it is advisable to consult with Slovak immigration authorities or legal experts.