Slovakia is a member of the European Union, which means citizens of EU countries don’t need a visa to move to Bratislava. You will, however, need to register with the Slovakian authorities on arrival.
Citizens of many non-EU member countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, can also enter Slovakia without a visa for tourist or business stays that don't exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
National Visa (for stays exceeding 90 days)
Any stay exceeding 90 days requires a Type D National Visa. This visa is for individuals planning to work, study, or settle long-term in Slovakia. Valid for up to one year, it’s often the first step towards obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP). Applications must be submitted at the Slovak consulate in your country of residence before departure.
You can find full details – and download the National Visa application form – on the Ministry of Interior website.
Temporary Residence Permits (TRPs)
The TRP for Employment is designed for foreign workers who have secured a job in Slovakia. It's valid for two years, with the potential to extend to five years under certain international agreements.
Slovakia offers other long-term residence permit options, including the Single Permit, EU Blue Card for Highly Qualified Professionals, and Intra-Company Transfer Permit.
The IOM Migration Information Centre has lots of useful information about residence options in Slovakia.
Slovakia’s healthcare system operates on a mixed model, which combines mandatory public insurance and complementary private options.
Mandatory public health insurance
The Slovak public system operates through three main insurers, which residents can freely choose from. Coverage is automatically included in social security contributions for employees.
Public insurance covers GP and specialist consultations, hospitalisations, emergencies, most prescribed medications, and basic medical examinations.
Private and complementary insurance
Many expat families, however, choose private or complementary health insurance to benefit from reduced waiting times, a wider choice of English-speaking doctors, and private rooms during hospital stays.
International private insurance also covers expenses in other European countries, which is a big advantage for frequent travellers.
Non-residents and individuals outside the public system (unregistered self-employed and long-term visitors, for example) must have private insurance.
Bratislava is a very walkable city, especially if you live close to the centre. And even if not, your destination is never more than 10-15 minutes away, thanks to an excellent public transport system.
Public transport
Living in Bratislava, you can rely on an extensive network of buses, trams, and trolleybuses to commute to work, explore the city’s neighbourhoods, and visit friends. The transport system is quick and efficient, with regular schedules and reasonable fares.
You can find more information about public transport on the official IMHD website.
Taxis
Taxis are also widely available throughout the city. Ride share services, such as Uber, Bolt, and Hopin, also operate in Bratislava. A taxi is a convenient way to get to Vienna airport, too, which is just one hour away. Vienna airport offers more frequent flights to multiple destinations than those arriving to and departing from Bratislava’s Štefánik Airport.
Cycling
Bratislava also has a popular bike-sharing scheme. The yellow bikes are easy to spot and even easier to use. You’ll need to register via the Slovnaft Bajk website (available in English), choose your plan (daily, monthly, annual), and pay online.
Driving
Traffic in Bratislava is less stressful than in many other European capitals. Still, due to the compact size of the city, many expats prefer to use public transport or bikes. If you prefer to drive – and you have a driving license issued by another country within the EU – you won’t have to exchange it for a Slovakian license. If you have a driving license from a country outside the EU, however, you’ll need to register for your Slovakian paperwork at the Office of Driver Records.
Getting to BISB
To help our children get to school safely and efficiently, BISB offers a transport service, provided by JUMAP. Our comfortable buses cover every district of Bratislava, up to 15km from the school. The school can provide transport to and from suburbs further out of the city, too.
There are plenty of fun activities for families living in Bratislava. From interactive museums to awe-inspiring castles, the Slovakian capital offers something for all interests and ages.
Some great options include:
Sport
Sport is hugely popular in Bratislava. The city has two football clubs, ŠK Slovan Bratislava and FC Petržalka Akadémia, and attending a match is a great way to meet locals and feel a sense of pride in the city.
Day trips from the city
Beyond the city, Slovakia boasts beautiful castles dating back to the Habsburg Empire and various UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Slovak countryside features mountains for hiking, mineral springs, caves, lakes, and campgrounds. There are also many spas built around hot springs.
Exploring the continent
Living in Bratislava also offers the advantage of easy access to other European cities. The city’s central train station connects you to several major destinations, making it a great base for exploring the continent. Whether you’re craving a weekend getaway to Prague or want to explore the beauty of the Austrian Alps in Salzburg, the excellent train connections make lots of adventures possible.
One of the top-performing international schools in Slovakia, The British International School Bratislava is home to a diverse community of global students and families. This creates a warm and inclusive learning environment, where your child will quickly feel at home.
Learning at BISB, your child will follow personalised academic pathways packed with exciting learning experiences. They’ll also receive the care they need to thrive as global citizens. The school’s holistic approach ensures every student achieves remarkable success, opening doors to the world’s best colleges and universities.
Yes, it is! Bratislava’s expat community is ever-increasing, and you’ll find groups and meet-up opportunities for all interests.
Several churches and religious groups provide services in English, for example. There are lots of sports clubs for both foreigners and locals, and many events and festivals – particularly in the spring and summer – bring communities together.
Slovak language classes often have a mix of expats, too, giving you a chance to bond with others in a similar situation.
Bratislava is a safe and welcoming place, with plenty of parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly attractions. It’s generally OK to walk around the city during the day or at night, and crime is mainly limited to petty theft in busy tourist areas.
The city’s family focus is evident through initiatives like City for Children, which is driving the development of new – and improving existing – public spaces.
Bratislava has a continental climate. This is characterised by hot, humid summers and cool winters, with rainfall spread evenly throughout the year.
August is the warmest month, with temperatures averaging around 27°C (80.6°F). In contrast, the average temperature in January, the coldest month of the year, is 0°C (31°F). Snow does occasionally fall during the winter months.
Want to find out more about what it’s like to live in Bratislava? BISB’s Admissions Team is here to help.
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