Visa Requirements
Comprehensive overview of visa types and entry regulations specific to Slovenia.
Visa-Free Entry: Who Qualifies?
Citizens of EU and EEA countries may enter Slovenia visa-free. No maximum stay applies for these travelers.
Visa-free access (up to 90 days in 180 days) is granted to citizens of:
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- South Korea
- United Kingdom
- Israel
- Singapore
- Several other countries (full list on the Slovenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website)
Schengen Area rules apply in Slovenia. The 90-day limit covers all Schengen countries combined, not just Slovenia.
Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond planned departure from Slovenia. Entry may be refused if the passport is damaged or expires soon.
Minors traveling alone or with one parent may need additional documents, such as parental consent.
Dual citizens should use the same passport to enter and exit Slovenia.
Entry is through border crossings at Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, Port of Koper, or land borders with Austria, Italy, Hungary, and Croatia.
Short-Stay Schengen Visa Explained
Travelers from non-EU/EEA countries may need a Slovenian short-stay (Type C) Schengen visa. This visa allows stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Slovenia issues short-stay visas for tourism, business, family visits, cultural events, and medical reasons.
Apply at the Slovenian Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. If there is no Slovenian mission, apply at a Schengen partner representing Slovenia. Applications must be submitted in person.
Required documents for Slovenia:
- Completed Schengen visa application form (Slovenian version)
- Passport valid at least three months after departure from Slovenia
- Two recent passport-size photos (35x45 mm)
- Proof of travel medical insurance (minimum coverage €30,000, valid in Slovenia)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, invitation letter, or rental agreement)
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, minimum €70 per day in Slovenia)
- Travel itinerary (flight reservation, travel plan)
- Proof of paid visa fee (€80 for adults, €40 for children aged 6-12)
Processing time is usually 15 calendar days. In some cases, it may take up to 45 days. Submit your application at least 15 days before travel.
Tips: Submit complete, original documents. Provide certified translations if not in Slovenian or English. Attend the visa interview if required.
Staying Longer: National Visas & Residence Permits
A Slovenian national visa (Type D) or residence permit is required for stays over 90 days.
Common reasons include:
- Study at Slovenian universities (Univerza v Ljubljani, Univerza v Mariboru)
- Employment with a Slovenian company
- Family reunification with Slovenian residents
- Scientific research or training
Application procedure:
- Apply at a Slovenian embassy or consulate abroad
- Some residence permits allow application at the Administrative Unit (Upravna enota) in Slovenia
- Processing time: 1–3 months for most permits
Key documents:
- Valid passport (minimum 3 months beyond stay)
- Proof of purpose (enrolment, work contract, family ties)
- Proof of accommodation in Slovenia
- Health insurance valid in Slovenia
- Proof of sufficient funds (at least €402.18/month for students in 2024)
- Background check from home country
Fees: Type D visa: €77. Residence permit: €50–€102 (2024 rates)
Renewal/extension:
- Apply before current permit expires at Upravna enota
- Extensions possible if conditions remain met
- Overstaying may result in fines or entry bans
Essential Documents & Entry Tips
When entering Slovenia, border officers will check your documents.
Carry the following:
- Valid passport (must be valid at least 3 months after departure from Slovenia)
- Schengen visa (if required for your nationality)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, invitation letter, or rental contract)
- Return or onward ticket (bus, train, or flight)
- Proof of sufficient funds (at least €70 per day, as required by Slovenian authorities)
- Travel insurance covering medical costs up to €30,000, valid in Slovenia
Border officers may ask:
- Purpose of your visit (tourism, business, study)
- Duration and location of stay (provide addresses)
- Evidence of funds (bank statements, cash, or credit card)
Tips for smooth entry:
- Keep all documents printed and ready for inspection
- Ensure your passport is stamped on entry and exit
- Do not overstay the allowed period; fines start at €250
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Missing accommodation proof
- Insufficient travel insurance
- Expired passport or visa
Quick Reference: Slovenia Visa Checklist
Visa-free travelers:
- Passport valid at least 3 months beyond planned departure from Slovenia
- Entry stamp required at Schengen border (Slovenia is Schengen member)
- Maximum stay: 90 days in any 180-day period
- Proof of onward travel and funds may be requested
Visa-required travelers:
- Apply for Slovenian Schengen visa (Type C) at nearest Slovenian embassy or consulate
- Application fee: €80 adults, €40 children (6-12 years)
- Submit application 15–90 days before travel
- Required: completed application, passport, photo, proof of accommodation, travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage), itinerary, financial means
- Processing time: up to 15 calendar days
For stays over 90 days:
- Apply for national visa (Type D) or residence permit before arrival
Official updates:
- Check Policija.si and Slovenia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for latest requirements