We would like to bring to your attention the ongoing challenges impacting immigration processes in Slovakia. Due to the current situation, securing appointments at the Foreign Police offices has become increasingly difficult, and delays in the issuance of residence cards are further complicating matters. Below, we outline the key issues and how they may affect your immigration process.
Limited Availability of Appointments at the Foreign Police
For the past several weeks, the availability of appointments at Foreign Police offices across Slovakia has been severely limited. This issue is particularly pronounced in major locations such as Bratislava, where securing an appointment has become especially challenging. In many instances, appointments must be booked at least two months in advance, adding significant delays to the immigration process.
To help mitigate this issue, we have prepared an instruction manual with detailed guidelines on how to book appointments. These instructions are available to our clients who wish to attempt booking appointments individually. However, please note that even with these efforts, success in securing appointments may vary due to the high demand and limited slots.
Delays in Issuance of Residence Cards
In addition to the challenges with appointment availability, there are significant delays in the issuance of residence cards. This issue affects both EU and non-EU citizens.
These delays have several implications:
- Process takes longer: The prolonged waiting period for residence cards means that the overall immigration process is delayed. This can affect your ability to finalize your legal status in Slovakia within expected timeframes.
- Travel Complications for Non-EU Citizens: For non-EU citizens, the delay in receiving a residence card poses an additional challenge. Without a valid travel document, business or personal travel outside Slovakia can become problematic. Even if your residence is in the process of being renewed or granted, re-entry into Slovakia without a valid card could lead to complications at border controls.
- Impact on Expiring Documents: The Foreign Police will process only pre-approved applications by the Labour Office.
- EU citizens: longer wait for residence registration and delay in obtaining residence card.
At this moment, it is unclear when these issues will be fully resolved.
Residence Cards – the problem appears to stem from a shortage of the plastic cards used for residence permits, contributing to delays in issuance.
Appointments Booking – we have been informed that changes to the online booking system are expected to take place towards the end of 2025. We hope that these updates will improve the situation with appointment booking and availability. However, until these changes are implemented, both the scarcity of available appointments and the delays in issuing residence cards will continue to pose challenges, particularly for those planning to travel.
To navigate these challenges, we recommend the following actions:
- Monitor Appointment Availability: Regularly check for available appointments and be prepared to book as soon as slots open. We recommend that those customers we are assisting utilize the instruction manual provided by our team to maximize your chances of securing a timely appointment.
- Prepare and check Documents: Ensure that all required supporting documents are prepared and valid checked in advance of your appointment. This will help avoid the need for resubmission due to expired documents.
- Consider Travel Plans: If you anticipate needing to travel outside Slovakia, particularly if you are a non-EU citizen, please consider the potential delays in receiving your residence card and the implications for your travel.
We understand frustrations these issues may cause and are committed to supporting you through this period. Our team remains at your disposal for any assistance or clarification you may need. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as more information becomes available. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
