Moving to Slovakia
Slovakia is amongst others known to have a low cost of living compared to many European countries, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle. But what else? And what is it like to live there?
Here we aim to provide a better idea of what living in this cool country can look like.
Popular cities in Slovakia
Life in Slovakia
Slovakia has many festivals and events throughout the year. From traditional folk festivals to modern music events, there’s always something to enjoy. And no matter if you are a nature enthusiast, history buff, or seeking a welcoming community, Slovakia has it all.
Slovaks are also very open to foreigners, and they take it as a compliment that you want to visit their country. However, don’t expect huge smiles and long conversations since they are very straightforward, in a polite way. If you show them at least a basic knowledge of the language they will be enthusiastic to help you.
Quick facts about working in Slovakia:
- Average working hours per week: 40 hours, 8 hours daily
- Typical working day: Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Number of Vacation days: 20 days / 4 weeks
- Commute: Mostly by bus and train/tram
- Work culture: Hierarchical and formal, non-confrontational
Quick info about Slovakia
Typical food
Bryndzove halushky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese (bryndza) and roasted bacon), Zemiakové placky (potato pancakes fried in oil with garlic), Granadír (pasta with potato), Fried cheese in bread crumbs
Population
~5.4 million people
Location
Slovakia is situated in Central Europe and borders Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Ukraine. The capital city is Bratislava.
Languages
Slovak
Famous people
Adriana Karembeu, Albín Brunovský, Marián Hossa
Currency
Euro (€)
Avg. working week
40 hours
8 hours daily
Healthcare
Slovak healthcare has a good standard and is covered by mandatory social contributions.
Other countries nearby
FAQ
No, as an EU citizen, you generally do not need a work permit to work or live in Slovakia. You can read more about it here.
Slovak is an official language in Slovakia, and even though majority of the society speaks at least the basics of English and it is used in the business environment, it’s always good to be able to speak the language of the country you are in, even if it is just “please”, “thank you” and “have a nice day”.
Learning online you can start even before departure and there are two ways for doing that. You can find a video course and go through it on your own, there are a lot of videos available, you can also visit websites like this slovake.eu, where the learning plan was already made and you just have to follow it. Most online courses are free, but if you prefer paid ones, there is also a possibility like this.
If you would like to learn on-site, IOM Migration Information Centre in Bratislava and Košice offers free language courses for European foreigners and this course focuses more on the daily usage of Slovakian with elements of culture. There are also courses organised by private teachers where a small group of foreigners is gathered, but this type of activity is paid and prices may vary depending on the institution.
No matter how you decide to learn Slovak, the key is to apply it every day. Speak with nationals while asking for directions or buying a cinema ticket, every possibility is good!
Slovakia has a temperate continental climate with distinct seasons. In winter (December to February), temperatures can range from -5°C to -10°C in lowland areas and even colder in mountain regions. Spring (March to May) brings milder temperatures between 5°C to 15°C, while summer (June to August) sees averages of 20°C to 25°C. Autumn (September to November) brings cooling temperatures of 5°C to 15°C before the onset of winter.
Getting around in Slovakia is relatively easy, thanks to a well-developed transportation network. The country offers an extensive and efficient public transport system, including buses, trams, and trains, connecting major cities and towns. Taxis are readily available in urban areas, while rental cars provide flexibility for exploring rural regions. Slovakia’s picturesque landscapes make traveling by train or bus a scenic and enjoyable experience.
Healthcare in Slovakia is generally good, with a mix of public and private facilities. The public system is accessible and provides essential services to residents, while private options offer shorter waiting times and additional amenities. Slovakia has a mandatory health insurance system, ensuring coverage for most medical needs. However, the quality of care may vary between regions, and some specialized treatments may require seeking medical services abroad.
Still not convinced about Slovakia?
Living in Slovakia offers a unique blend of cultural richness, picturesque landscapes, and affordable living. With its diverse history and architecture, the country boasts charming medieval towns, majestic castles, and beautiful mountains perfect for outdoor activities.
The country also offers a strong education system, making it an attractive destination for families. Moreover, Slovakia’s healthcare system is of high standard, providing accessible and quality medical services.
Slovaks are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, making it easy to immerse yourself in the local community. The cost of living is relatively lower compared to many European countries, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle. Slovakia’s central location in Europe makes it an ideal base for exploring neighboring countries and experiencing different cultures.
