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Slovakia Introduces Digital Portal for Residence Permits and EU Blue Card Applications

February 22, 2026 3:49 pm

Slovakia Introduces Digital Portal for Residence Permits and EU Blue Card Applications

Slovakia has launched a new digital immigration portal, enabling foreign nationals to apply online for residence permits, passport services, and EU Blue Card renewals. This exciting development simplifies the application process significantly starting in 2026.

If you plan to live or work in Slovakia, be aware of this important update. As of February 18, 2026, the digital immigration portal is fully operational. This means you can now manage applications for residence permits, passports, and EU Blue Cards from the comfort of your home. This transition marks a significant departure from the previous system, which required numerous in-person visits.

What’s New in 2026?

The online platform now allows foreign nationals to:

Apply for any type of residence permit
Renew a temporary residence permit
Apply for a passport
Renew an EU Blue Card

After submitting your application online, you must visit the immigration authorities within 30 days to provide your fingerprints. Once approved, your residence permit card will be delivered directly to you by courier.

Improvements Over the Old System

This new approach replaces the outdated process, which required in-person applications. Previously, approval updates arrived via SMS, and applicants had to physically pick up their cards. Now, travelers only need to visit the immigration office once, reducing the hassle significantly.

Initial Challenges of the Portal

Initially, the rollout faced several issues. In July 2025, the portal went live but could not process applications for residence permits, passports, or EU Blue Cards. Many applicants experienced confusion due to the incomplete functionality of the system. Fortunately, these problems have been resolved.

How to Use the New Slovakia Immigration Portal

Here’s how the current process works:

Submit your application online via the official digital portal.
Book and attend a biometric appointment within 30 days.
Wait for your application to be approved.
Receive your residence permit card by courier.

This streamlined process means that foreign workers and their families will face fewer queues and reduced paperwork.

Significance for Skilled Workers and EU Blue Card Applicants

Slovakia aims to attract skilled foreign professionals, particularly through the EU Blue Card scheme. By digitizing the application process, Slovakia enhances its competitiveness against other EU destinations. The EU Blue Card is especially vital for highly skilled non-EU nationals, and the ability to renew it online minimizes stress, especially for those already in full-time employment.

For employers, this could also expedite hiring timelines.

What to Do If You Plan to Move to Slovakia

If you intend to relocate to Slovakia in 2026, check if your application can now be submitted online. Keep these points in mind:

You still need to provide your fingerprints in person.
The biometric appointment must occur within 30 days of submitting your application.
Processing times may vary based on demand.

Though the new system cuts down on office visits, it does not eliminate all in-person requirements.

Conclusion

Across Europe, governments are gradually transitioning immigration systems online, and Slovakia is now following this trend. For foreign nationals, particularly skilled workers and long-term residents, this update simplifies the application process and increases predictability. While it is not perfect yet, it represents a significant improvement over the old system that required long waits in immigration offices, making the journey to settle in Slovakia a much smoother experience.