If you are planning to live or work in Slovakia, there is an important update you should know. As of February 18, 2026, Slovakia’s new digital immigration portal is fully operational. Foreign nationals can now apply online for residence permits, passports, and EU Blue Cards.

This is a big shift from the old system, which required multiple in-person visits.

What Has Changed in 2026?

Slovakia’s online immigration 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

Once the application is submitted online, applicants must visit the immigration authorities within 30 days to provide fingerprints. After approval, the residence permit card is delivered by courier.

This replaces the older process where applications had to be filed in person, approval updates were sent by SMS, and the card had to be collected physically.

In short, at least one visit to the immigration office is now eliminated.

A Quick Look at the Earlier Delays

The rollout was not up to the mark at first. In July 2025, the portal was live but did not allow applications for residence permits, passports, or EU Blue Cards. Many applicants were confused because the system was partially functional but incomplete.

Now, those issues appear to have been resolved.

How the New Slovakia Immigration Portal Works

Here is how the process works today:

1. Submit your application online through the official digital immigration platform.
2. Book and attend a biometric appointment within 30 days.
3. Wait for approval.
4. Receive your residence permit card by courier.

For many foreign workers and families, this means fewer queues and less paperwork.

Why This Matters for Skilled Workers and EU Blue Card Applicants

Slovakia has been working to attract skilled foreign professionals, especially under the EU Blue Card scheme. Making the application process digital makes the country more competitive compared to other EU destinations.

The EU Blue Card is especially important for highly qualified non-EU nationals. Being able to renew it online saves time and reduces stress, particularly for people already working full-time.

For employers in Slovakia, this could also speed up hiring timelines.

What Travellers and Expats Should Do Now

If you are planning to move to Slovakia in 2026, it is worth checking whether your application can now be submitted online. Keep in mind:

• You still need to provide fingerprints in person.
• The biometric appointment must be completed within 30 days of filing.
• Processing times may vary depending on demand.

While the system reduces office visits, it does not eliminate all in-person steps.

Final Thoughts

Across Europe, governments are slowly moving immigration systems online. Slovakia is now catching up with this trend.

For foreign nationals, especially skilled workers and long-term residents, this update makes the process simpler and more predictable.

It is not perfect yet. But compared to standing in long lines at immigration offices, it is a meaningful step forward.

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