Few people know that Slovak law has a law that separately regulates the status of people who have finished higher education. It gives them a unique chance to extend their student temporary residence permit (pobyt) for another 9 months. In this article, we will explain how to use this opportunity, what documents are needed, and what to do next to achieve your plans.
This is possible thanks to the law Act No. 404/2011 Coll. – in paragraph § 34, which clearly states that any person who has obtained a bachelor's, master's, engineer's, or other academic degree can apply for an extension of their temporary residence permit within 30 days after officially finishing their studies.
This is especially important because usually, a student temporary residence permit stops being valid on the same day you take your last exam or defend your thesis. This option is ideal for those who have not yet found a job or started their business before finishing their studies and need more time for this.
Who can apply for a 9-month temporary residence permit?
This type of temporary residence permit is available for citizens of third countries who:- Successfully completed their studies at an accredited Slovak university (bachelor's, master's, engineering degree, etc.).
- Applied within 30 days after officially finishing their studies, meaning after the date of their thesis defense or final exam.
- Intend to stay in Slovakia to look for a job or start a business.
How to apply for a 9-month temporary residence permit?
The procedure is practically the same as for a regular temporary residence permit extension. Here's what you need to do:Step 1. Book an appointment
Book an appointment in advance to submit your documents through the booking system. Choose the option "obnovenie prechodného pobytu" (extension of temporary residence permit). It's best to book as early as possible, as there are very few available appointments right now. Also, be careful, as scammers have become active in Slovakia. They sell appointments for submitting documents but may cheat you and leave you without money. Read more about scam schemes in Slovakia and how to avoid them in our article: Scam Schemes in SlovakiaStep 2. Prepare your documents
To apply for the 9-month temporary residence permit, you will need:- Standard application form: Download the form, fill it out, and state the purpose as "štúdium" (this is a formality, as you have already finished your studies).
- Proof of completion of studies: This can be a diploma or a certificate from the university. If the diploma is not ready yet (it is often issued 1–2 months after graduation), get a certificate of completion of studies from the studijnom oddelení (study department) of your university. The certificate must be signed by the dean of the faculty. The police usually accept the certificate, but may later ask you to submit the diploma (they will scan it and return it).
- Two photos: Size 3×3.5 cm, taken no more than 90 days ago.
- Proof of financial means: A bank account statement showing at least €3300 (the amount depends on the subsistence minimum, which is updated annually).
- Proof of accommodation: The rental agreement must be signed by the landlord and notarized, or a confirmation of residence (or property ownership document) for at least 6 months, preferably a year.
- Valid passport: Make sure your passport does not expire within the next 9 months. If you need to get a new passport, contact the Passport Service
