Annual tax return in Slovakia: what it is and how not to lose your residence permit

260930/05/2025

In short

A "medziročník" in Slovakia is an extra year of study for students who did not finish their subjects or defend their diploma on time. It allows them to complete unfinished subjects without losing their student status and extends their temporary residence permit (pobyt). However, this year costs between 600 and 1500 euros. A "medziročník" slows down the accumulation of years needed for permanent residence (trvalý pobyt), as one year of study counts as half a year of residence.

1. What is a medziročník and how does it work?

Did not manage to finish all subjects or defend your diploma on time? In Slovakia, there is a solution – an extra year of study, or a "medziročník". This is a kind of "lifebuoy" for students who did not meet the standard study deadlines. But is it worth taking? In this article, we will discuss what a medziročník is, how it works, what its advantages and disadvantages are, and how it affects your temporary residence (pobyt) and permanent residence (trvalý pobyt).

What is a medziročník and how does it work?

A medziročník is an extra year that a student takes if they did not manage to pass mandatory subjects, earn the required number of credits, or defend their diploma thesis. It is not a repetition of the course, but rather a "

Frequently asked questions

What is a "medziročník" in Slovakia?+

A "medziročník" is an extra year of study that a student takes if they do not manage to pass required subjects, earn enough credits, or defend their thesis on time.

How much does a "medziročník" cost and how can I avoid paying?+

You will have to pay between 600 and 1500 euros for the extra year of study, depending on the university. You can avoid paying if you pass your exams on time, retake failed subjects without a "medziročník", participate in the Erasmus+ program, or take an academic leave for valid reasons.

How does a "medziročník" (student repeating a year) affect residence permits (pobyt) and permanent residence (trvalý pobyt) in Slovakia?+

A "medziročník" (student repeating a year) does not create problems with your residence permit (pobyt) – your student status is maintained and your residence permit is extended. However, for permanent residence (trvalý pobyt), one year of study counts as half a year, so a "medziročník" extends the path to obtaining permanent residence.

What are the advantages of a "medziročník"?+

A "medziročník" gives you more time to prepare for exams and your thesis, a lighter study schedule, maintains your student status and benefits, and allows you to participate in Erasmus+ without the risk of losing your academic standing.

What should I do if I did not earn enough credits or pass my subjects?+

You can take a "medziročník" – an extra year to pass failed subjects, prepare for state exams, and finish your thesis. You should check your university's rules in the "Študijný poriadok" (study regulations) and contact the dean's office for advice.

Updated 29 July 2026