FAQ – Slovak Citizenship
Q1. Who is eligible to apply for Slovak citizenship by descent?
Q2. How many generations back does Slovak or Czechoslovak ancestry qualify?
Q3. Can Slovak citizenship be claimed through deceased ancestors?
Q4. Do you offer an initial eligibility assessment or consultation?
Q5. Is approval of Slovak citizenship guaranteed?
Q6. What options do I have if none of my ancestors held Czechoslovak citizenship?
Q7. Is it possible to obtain Slovak citizenship by exception or in the national interest?
Q8. When do I become a Slovak tax resident?
Q9. Is a residence permit in Slovakia required before applying for citizenship?
Q10. Do I need a temporary or permanent residence permit to apply for citizenship?
Q11. Can residence and citizenship applications be submitted at the same time?
Q12. What government fees apply and when are they payable?
Q13. Do I need to be physically present in Slovakia during the process?
Q14. Where must a Slovak citizenship application be submitted?
Q15. What documents are required to prove Slovak or Czechoslovak ancestry?
Q16. Which personal and civil status documents must be submitted with the application?
Q17. What happens if some required documents are missing or unavailable?
Q18. Do foreign documents need to be apostilled or superlegalized?
Q19. Is knowledge of the Slovak language required for citizenship by descent?
Q20. Can my children apply for Slovak citizenship together with me?
Q21. What options are available for my spouse?
Q22. Can I retain my current citizenship after acquiring Slovak citizenship?
Q23. How long does the Slovak citizenship application process usually take?
Q24. Can the applicant be invited for an interview during the process?
Q25. What are our fees and what services do we offer?
Q1. Who is eligible to apply for Slovak citizenship by descent?
Under Slovak law effective as of April 1, 2022, Slovak citizenship may be granted by descent under a simplified regime to applicants who do not meet the standard long-term permanent residence requirement.
This pathway applies to individuals who have obtained lawful residence in Slovakia and who have never previously held Slovak citizenship, provided that at least one of their direct ancestors — a parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent — was a Czechoslovak citizen born within the territory of today’s Slovak Republic.
In practical terms, eligibility for Slovak citizenship by descent requires that the applicant:
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holds a valid residence permit in Slovakia at the time of application,
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has never been a Slovak citizen in the past, and
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can demonstrate direct lineage to a qualifying ancestor (parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent) who was a Czechoslovak citizen born in present-day Slovakia.
This legal framework allows eligible descendants to apply for Slovak citizenship without completing the standard eight-year permanent residence period.
Q2. How many generations back does Slovak or Czechoslovak ancestry qualify?
Slovak citizenship by descent is limited to applicants who can trace their lineage to a direct ancestor no more than three generations back. In practical terms, this means that eligibility may be established through a parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent.
The qualifying ancestor must have been a Czechoslovak citizen and must have been born in the territory that forms present-day Slovakia. Ancestry beyond the great-grandparent level does not, by itself, create entitlement to citizenship by descent under the standard legal framework.
If the Slovak or Czechoslovak ancestor falls into the fourth generation or earlier, citizenship may still be possible through alternative legal pathways, such as residence-based naturalization, a Slovak Living Abroad certificate combined with residence, or an application based on an exceptional contribution or family reunification. These routes, however, are discretionary and subject to a more rigorous assessment by the authorities.
Q3. Can Slovak citizenship be claimed through deceased ancestors?
Yes. The fact that a qualifying ancestor is deceased does not prevent an applicant from pursuing Slovak citizenship by descent.
What matters is not whether the parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent is still living, but whether that ancestor can be shown to have held Czechoslovak citizenship and to have been born in the territory of present-day Slovakia. This must be proven through official records, such as birth certificates, citizenship documents, or other archival evidence.
As long as the lineage can be reliably documented and the remaining legal requirements are met, citizenship by descent may be granted even if the qualifying ancestor passed away many years ago. The key challenge in such cases is typically evidentiary rather than legal, and successful applications depend on the availability and quality of historical documentation.
Q4. Do you offer an initial eligibility assessment or consultation?
Yes. We offer an initial eligibility assessment to help determine whether you may qualify for Slovak citizenship or a related residence pathway.
As part of this preliminary review, we assess your family background, available documentation, and personal circumstances to identify the most appropriate legal route, whether through citizenship by descent, residence-based options, or alternative solutions.
This initial assessment is designed to clarify feasibility, outline potential risks, and explain the next procedural steps before any formal application is submitted.
Following the assessment, we can provide a clear recommendation on how to proceed and, if appropriate, propose a tailored legal strategy for your case.
Q5. Is approval of Slovak citizenship guaranteed?
Applications for Slovak citizenship are assessed on an individual basis by the competent authorities. Each case is reviewed in light of the applicant’s personal circumstances, supporting documentation, and the specific legal grounds relied upon in the application.
During the review process, the Ministry of Interior may verify the submitted information, consult other public authorities, and, where necessary, request additional documents or explanations. The final decision is therefore made after a comprehensive evaluation of all relevant factors in the particular case.
For this reason, the outcome of a Slovak citizenship application depends on the individual merits of each application and the authorities’ assessment under applicable Slovak law.
Q6. What options do I have if none of my ancestors held Czechoslovak citizenship?
If an applicant cannot rely on Czechoslovak ancestry and does not intend to fulfill a three-year residence requirement in Slovakia, an alternative pathway may still be available based on a demonstrated contribution to the Slovak community abroad.
In such cases, the application is typically grounded in the applicant’s ability to create a meaningful benefit for the Slovak diaspora in areas such as economic, scientific, technical, cultural, social, or athletic.
These applications are assessed by the Ministry of Interior, which may seek input from the Office for Slovaks Living Abroad as well as statements or support from recognized Slovak expatriate organizations in the applicant’s country of residence.
There are currently no fixed benchmarks or formal criteria defining what constitutes a sufficient contribution. Each case is therefore evaluated individually, with attention given to the applicant’s background, professional standing, and potential long-term impact within the Slovak diaspora. A well-prepared application typically emphasizes where the applicant’s skills, experience, or public profile can generate the greatest value.
As part of the process, we assist clients in identifying relevant Slovak expatriate organizations and establishing credible connections that help substantiate their role and prospective contribution within the Slovak community abroad.
Q7. Is it possible to obtain Slovak citizenship by exception or in the national interest?
Applicants who do not meet the standard statutory conditions may still explore the possibility of Slovak citizenship through an exceptional or discretionary procedure. This route may be considered where the applicant can demonstrate a substantial benefit to the Slovak Republic or where granting citizenship aligns with a broader country's interest.
In certain circumstances, family unity may also be taken into account. This can be relevant, for example, for family members who do not have Slovak ancestry themselves—such as a spouse or children—where the Slovak lineage traces back beyond the normally recognized generational limit.
Applications submitted on this basis are assessed on an individual, discretionary basis by the authorities. Because this pathway does not constitute a legal entitlement, it involves a higher degree of uncertainty, and outcomes depend on the specific facts and supporting evidence presented in each case.
Q8. When do I become a Slovak tax resident?
Tax obligations in Slovakia generally arise once an individual is considered a Slovak tax resident. This may occur, for example, if a person has permanent residence in Slovakia, spends more than 183 days per calendar year in the country, or establishes a stable home or household there.
If none of these conditions apply, there is typically no obligation to file tax returns in Slovakia solely on the basis of citizenship or residence status. Tax reporting is usually required only in respect of income sourced in Slovakia, such as employment income earned in Slovakia, profits distributed from a Slovak business, or gains derived from the sale or rental of Slovak real estate.
Slovakia has entered into double taxation treaties with several countries, including the United States and Canada, which are intended to prevent the same income from being taxed in both jurisdictions. The application of these treaties depends on the individual’s specific circumstances.
Given the complexity of tax residency and cross-border taxation, individual situations should be reviewed with a qualified legal or tax advisor in the relevant jurisdiction.
Q9. Is residence permit in Slovakia required before applying for citizenship?
A residence permit is required as part of the citizenship application process. In practice, one of the most straightforward options is a permanent residence permit granted for exceptional reasons, which may be available to applicants with qualifying Czechoslovak ancestry.
While lawful residence status must be obtained prior to submitting a citizenship application, there is generally no minimum period of residence that must be completed before applying under this pathway.
Once residence has been granted, certain legal and administrative obligations arise, and these are addressed with applicants as part of the process.
Q10. Do I need a temporary or permanent residence permit to apply for citizenship?
One of the most practical residence options is a permanent residence permit granted for exceptional circumstances, which may be available to applicants with qualifying Czechoslovak ancestry.This permit is issued for a five-year period.
While holding lawful residence status is required before submitting a citizenship application, there is generally no obligation to reside in Slovakia for a defined minimum period prior to applying under this route. Once residence is granted, certain legal and administrative responsibilities apply, and these are addressed with applicants as part of the process.
Q11. Can residence and citizenship applications be submitted at the same time?
When applying for a five-year permanent residence permit on exceptional grounds, it is possible to file both the residence application and the citizenship application during the same appointment at a Slovak embassy or consulate abroad. In this scenario, the citizenship application does not need to be postponed until the residence permit has been formally approved.
Q12. What government fees apply and when are they payable?
Government administrative fees are payable only after Slovak citizenship has been granted.
The amount of the fee depends on the legal basis of the application and the applicant’s circumstances. For citizenship by descent, the administrative fee is EUR 30 where the qualifying ancestor is a parent or grandparent, and EUR 1,000 where eligibility is based on a great-grandparent. For minor applicants, the fee is EUR 210 for children aged over 15 and EUR 140 for children under the age of 15.
Where citizenship is sought on the basis of a Slovak Living Abroad certificate combined with either a completed three-year residence in Slovakia or a demonstrated contribution to the Slovak diaspora, the applicable administrative fee is EUR 560.
Applicants over the age of 65 are exempt from the administrative fee.
In certain cases, the fee may also be reduced or waived entirely, particularly where the applicant has made a significant contribution to the Slovak Republic or has been long-term devoted to the benefit of the Slovak diaspora.
Q13. Do I need to be physically present in Slovakia during the process?
Personal presence in Slovakia is usually not required at every stage of the process. Much of the communication with the relevant authorities can be handled through legal representation, which helps reduce the need for travel to Slovakia.
Q14. Where must a Slovak citizenship application be submitted?
The citizenship application must be filed in person with the competent authority. Applicants residing in Slovakia submit their application at the appropriate district office, while those living abroad apply through a Slovak embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
As part of our services, we assist in identifying the correct authority and provide guidance throughout the submission process.
Q15. What documents are required to prove Slovak or Czechoslovak ancestry?
To prove Slovak or Czechoslovak ancestry, applicants are required to submit documentation demonstrating both their family lineage and the qualifying status of the ancestor.
This typically includes birth certificates of the relevant ancestors showing birth in the territory of present-day Slovakia, as well as civil records that confirm the direct family connection between the applicant and the qualifying parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent.
Evidence that the ancestor held Czechoslovak citizenship is also required and can be supported by documents such as citizenship certificates, census records, passports, or similar official records.
In addition, applicants must be able to show that they have never previously held Slovak citizenship and that their claim is based on direct descent from a qualifying ancestor born in Slovakia.
Any available documents showing birth in Slovakia or Czechoslovak citizenship may be submitted to us in electronic form for an initial assessment. These may include birth, marriage, or death certificates, naturalization records, passport copies, registry extracts, and other relevant historical documents. We review the submitted materials in detail, help identify which documents are legally relevant, and advise on any additional evidence that may be needed to strengthen your case.
Q16. Which personal and civil status documents must be submitted with the application?
A Slovak citizenship application must be supported by a set of personal, civil status, and background documents that allow the authorities to verify the applicant’s identity, family situation, residence status, and eligibility.
These typically include a structured curriculum vitae containing personal details (such as full name, date and place of birth, current address), educational and professional background, language abilities, skills, and a signed declaration. A copy of the applicant’s valid passport must also be provided, with the original presented for verification.
Applicants are required to submit their birth certificate and, where applicable, documents confirming marital status, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or a spouse’s death certificate.
Proof of lawful residence in Slovakia is also required.
A criminal record extract must be submitted from the applicant’s current country of nationality and residence, as well as from any country where the applicant has resided or held nationality during the past 15 years, provided the document is not older than six months.
Where citizenship is claimed by descent, relevant documents concerning direct ancestors who were Czechoslovak citizens born in the territory of present-day Slovakia must be included. If issued, a Slovak Living Abroad certificate should also be submitted.
Additional documentation may be required depending on the applicant’s circumstances, such as employment confirmation, proof of health insurance, or statutory affidavits relating to tax, social security, or financial status. For minors, a completed questionnaire and parental consent in the required form must be provided.
Applicants who previously held Czechoslovak or Slovak citizenship may also be asked to submit documentation confirming the loss of that citizenship and evidence of their last permanent residence in Slovakia.
We assist clients in identifying which documents apply to their specific situation and in preparing a complete and compliant application package.
Q17. What happens if some required documents are missing or unavailable?
If certain documents are missing or unavailable, we can assist with identifying alternative sources and obtaining records from relevant archives, registries, and public authorities in Slovakia. Where appropriate, we also coordinate with trusted genealogical professionals who specialize in locating historical and family records.
Our role is to help assemble the strongest possible evidentiary file based on what can reasonably be obtained in your specific case.
Q18. Do foreign documents need to be apostilled or superlegalized?
All documents submitted with the application must be provided either as originals or as certified true copies. Official documents issued outside the Slovak Republic must be properly authenticated. This generally means apostillation for documents issued in countries that are parties to the Hague Convention, or full authentication followed by superlegalization for documents originating from non-Hague Convention countries.
Foreign documents must also be accompanied by an official translation into Slovak. Translations must be prepared either by a sworn translator registered with the Ministry of Justice of the Slovak Republic or by an officially authorized foreign translator. Where a foreign translator is used, the translation may also require apostillation or superlegalization, unless the Slovak embassy or consulate confirms the translator’s credentials in writing.
We assist clients throughout this process and can arrange certified Slovak translations through qualified translators to ensure that all documents meet the formal requirements of the authorities.
Q19. Is knowledge of the Slovak language required for citizenship by descent?
Knowledge of the Slovak language is not required when applying for Slovak citizenship based on ancestry.
Q20. Can my children apply for Slovak citizenship together with me?
Children may apply for Slovak citizenship alongside a parent, provided they independently satisfy the applicable eligibility criteria. Where a child meets the same conditions as the parent, no additional requirements generally apply.
If a child does not qualify on the same basis as the parent, citizenship may still be considered if at least one alternative condition is fulfilled. Depending on the circumstances, this may include a period of lawful residence in Slovakia prior to the application, with the required length varying according to the child’s age and whether the parent has already obtained Slovak citizenship. In certain cases involving very young children, no prior residence may be required.
Alternatively, a child’s application may be assessed on discretionary grounds, such as where granting citizenship would serve the interests of the Slovak Republic or support family unity, including situations involving a demonstrated contribution to the Slovak diaspora.
Applications involving children require particular care, as they may be subject to additional procedural rules and consent requirements and may be assessed with special attention by the authorities. For this reason, we generally recommend professional legal assistance in all cases involving minor applicants. We help ensure that applications are properly structured, that all required parental consents and supporting documents are correctly prepared, and that the process proceeds smoothly and without unnecessary risk.
Q21. What options are available for my spouse?
If a spouse does not qualify for a Slovak Living Abroad certificate or citizenship by descent, alternative pathways may still be available.
Slovak citizenship may be considered where the spouse has been married to a Slovak citizen and has maintained long-term residence in Slovakia, with the required residence period depending on whether the marriage took place before or after the Slovak citizenship was acquired. Citizenship may also be pursued in cases where the spouse has made a substantial contribution to the Slovak Republic itself, or where granting citizenship is in the interest of the Slovak Republic, including for reasons such as family reunification.
In addition to citizenship options, a spouse is generally eligible to apply for a renewable temporary residence permit based on family reunification. This residence status allows the spouse to live in Slovakia and engage in employment, business, or studies without the need for additional work or business permits. Holders of this residence permit also enjoy the same travel rights within the European Union as other lawful residents.
Granting this type of residence permit requires evidence of genuine residence in Slovakia, typically demonstrated through ownership or a lease of residential property.
We assist spouses throughout both the residence and citizenship processes and advise on the most appropriate strategy based on individual circumstances.
Q22. Can I retain my current citizenship after acquiring Slovak citizenship?
Slovak law permits dual citizenship in certain situations. Each case must be assessed individually, taking into account both Slovak law and the legislation of the applicant’s current country of citizenship.
Q23. How long does the Slovak citizenship application process usually take?
The overall timeframe for obtaining Slovak citizenship by descent varies depending on the individual circumstances of each case. While the formal decision-making phase is governed by statutory deadlines, the total duration also depends on preparatory steps completed before the application is submitted.
Based on current practice, the Ministry of Interior often issues decisions within several months, although the law allows a maximum decision period of up to 24 months. The total process may be extended by factors such as the time needed to collect historical documents, arrange certified translations, and secure appointments at Slovak embassies or consulates.
Cases with clearly identifiable ancestors and readily available documentation tend to progress more quickly, while more complex family histories or limited document availability may require additional time. We assist clients in managing each stage efficiently in order to minimize avoidable delays and streamline the process wherever possible.
Q24. Can the applicant be invited for an interview during the process?
Yes, an interview may be requested during the citizenship proceedings if the authorities consider it necessary. The Ministry of Interior, or in some cases a Slovak embassy or consulate, may invite the applicant to an interview in order to clarify specific facts, verify information provided in the application, or address any inconsistencies in the submitted documentation.
Q25. What are our fees and what services do we offer?
The standard fee structure is as follows:
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Initial consultation: EUR 250
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Legal representation onboarding: 0.5 hour (EUR 100)
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Residence application process: EUR 2,225
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Citizenship application process: EUR 2,225
The above fees are payable in advance.
Should the total number of hours expended on the matter exceed 25 hours, any additional legal services shall be billed at the applicable hourly rate of EUR 195. Billing applies to each commenced half-hour. Additional hours shall be payable in advance in blocks of 20 hours, or in a lower number of hours where the estimated required time is less than 20 hours.
Costs related to document procurement, official translations, and government administrative fees are not included. VAT at 23% applies where required by law.
Our services are comprehensive and tailored to each case, and typically include:
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Case assessment and eligibility review
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Verification and analysis of submitted documents
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Guidance on obtaining required civil, archival, and citizenship records
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Drafting and review of residence and citizenship application materials
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Review of apostilles, official translations, and document validity
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Booking of embassy or immigration authority appointments
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Preparation of a complete and compliant submission package
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Legal representation before the relevant authorities
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Ongoing case-specific consulting and communication with public bodies
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Assistance following approval, including guidance on obtaining a Slovak passport and related obligations
Where required, we can also assist with:
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Apostille processing (fees depend on document type and jurisdiction)
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Official translations
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Retrieval of historical or registry documents, such as birth records or census entries