The Slovak government has finalized discussions on a new bill for the residence of foreigners and approved the final changes for 2026. Despite hundreds of public comments during the preparation phase, the final text approved by the ministers does not contain revolutionary changes compared to the autumn version. However, there are key adjustments that will significantly affect the lives of migrants in the near future.
New Deadlines and Digitalization
The first important change concerns deadlines: the reform launch has been moved from May to July 15, 2026. One of the state's main priorities is digitalization. The police are implementing artificial intelligence to analyze documents submitted online. This means that when extending a temporary residence permit through electronic services, foreigners will be required to submit the full package of documents immediately. There will be no option to "submit missing documents later" (as is possible during an in-person visit) in digital format – the system will be set up for automatic rejection of incomplete applications.
At the same time, digitalization will also bring relief. Property owners will be able to grant consent for a foreigner's residence remotely through a special service, which will eliminate the need for tenants to have their paper applications notarized.
Risks and Benefits for Business
The most controversial point of the reform is the radical easing of income requirements for business temporary residence permits. For sole traders (živnostník), the income threshold is planned to be lowered to the minimum income (~€2,900 per year), and for companies, to the fact of paying the minimum tax (from €340). While this looks like a "green light" for foreign entrepreneurs, experts warn of the downside: debt control is being strengthened. Now, any debt to the tax office or insurance company at any time of the year can become a direct reason for revoking the residence permit.
Employment and Education
For those working in Slovakia, the law brings positive news. The period for finding a new job in case of dismissal will be extended from 60 days to 3 months (for newcomers) and up to 6 months (for those who have had a residence permit for more than two years).
On the other hand, students will have to be patient. Due to the heavy workload of the migration police, the official processing time for student applications will be extended from 30 to 90 days.
Easing for Permanent Residence and Families with Children
The procedure for obtaining permanent residence (dlhodobý pobyt) will become simpler regarding language proficiency proof. Now, those who have studied in a Slovak school (of any level) for at least two years will not need to take the exam. The police will also start accepting language certificates above level A2 (e.g., B1 or B2), which sometimes caused bureaucratic difficulties before. An important technical amendment is also the official cancellation of the medical examination and financial security requirements for newborn children of foreigners.
Increased Control
At the border, police powers are expanding: law enforcement officers will be able to confiscate suspicious documents not only during checks but also during searches of personal belongings or vehicles. The right to check phone content has also been added to combat the organization of illegal migration.
Slovakia is preparing for a gradual exit from the state of emergency benefits. The rule of automatic extension of expired documents, which currently helps thousands of people, is planned to be finally abolished on July 15, 2027. By this time, all foreigners must update their cards to avoid being in an illegal status.
The bill is currently being prepared for discussion in parliament. Although the government has already given its consent, MPs may still make amendments to the final version of the law.
