What benefits does Slovak citizenship offer to foreigners?

The paths to obtaining Slovak citizenship are diverse. In addition to being born on the territory of Slovakia, the law also considers foreigners with permanent residence and Slovak roots, spouses of Slovak citizens, and other categories of individuals. But what happens once you have acquired Slovak citizenship? What benefits does it bring you?

Slovak citizenship allows you to fully participate in the social, economic, and political life of the country. Among the most important benefits of Slovak citizenship are:

Free movement and residence within the European Union
● Slovak citizens have the right to travel, work, and live freely in any EU member state without visas or restrictions.
● They can also study, work, and do business abroad, taking advantage of the benefits of the EU single market.

The right to vote and be elected
● As a Slovak citizen, you have the right to vote for members of the National Council of the Slovak Republic, the president of the Slovak Republic, and members of the European Parliament.
● You can also run for these positions if you meet the conditions set by law.

Access to public services
● Slovak citizens are entitled to free healthcare within the public health insurance system, provided they pay health insurance contributions.
● With Slovak citizenship, you are also entitled to social security in cases of unemployment, illness, maternity, and old age. The eligibility conditions vary depending on the type of benefit (such as unemployment support, maternity allowance, or old-age pension).
● Children of Slovak citizens have the right to free primary and secondary education.

Diplomatic protection
● If you find yourself in need abroad as a Slovak citizen, you can seek assistance from a Slovak diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate). They are obliged to provide the necessary help and protection in accordance with international agreements and laws.

Dual citizenship
● Slovakia allows its citizens to hold, under certain conditions, citizenship of another country alongside Slovak citizenship. This can be advantageous, for example, if you have family ties in another country or if you want to benefit from the advantages of both Slovak citizenship and that of another state.