Checklist Before Moving to Slovakia After Obtaining a Residence Permit
Have you received a residence permit (TRP) in Slovakia and are preparing to move? This checklist will help you organize the process efficiently, reducing stress and avoiding unexpected issues.
1. Documents and Legalization
✔️ Check the validity of your passport and renew it if necessary.
✔️ Ensure you have your residence permit and all required supporting documents.
✔️ Translate and notarize important documents (birth certificates, diplomas, marriage certificates, medical records).
✔️ Obtain an international driver’s license if you plan to drive.
✔️ Verify if you need to register your residence upon arrival.
2. Financial Matters
✔️ Prepare cash for initial expenses.
✔️ Check international transfer options and associated fees.
✔️ Familiarize yourself with tax obligations in Slovakia.
✔️ Plan your budget for the first few months.
✔️ Obtain health, housing, and vehicle insurance.
3. Housing and Logistics
✔️ Find temporary or permanent housing before moving.
✔️ Research the real estate market if planning to buy a property.
✔️ Book tickets and organize the transportation of your belongings.
✔️ Explore options for shipping large items.
✔️ If you plan to drive, learn about the car registration process in Slovakia.
4. Work and Education
✔️ Check employment requirements related to your residence permit.
✔️ Update your resume in Slovak or English.
✔️ Research the job market and available vacancies.
✔️ Verify if your diploma requires nostrification (official recognition).
✔️ If moving with children, research schools and kindergartens and submit applications.
✔️ Enroll in language courses if you are not yet fluent in Slovak.
5. Healthcare and Insurance
✔️ Learn about Slovakia’s healthcare system.
✔️ Obtain health insurance.
✔️ Find the nearest hospitals and pharmacies.
✔️ If you have chronic conditions, stock up on necessary medications and check for local alternatives.
✔️ Register with a general practitioner after arrival.
6. Social Adaptation and Integration
✔️ Learn about local laws, culture, and traditions.
✔️ Familiarize yourself with basic Slovak phrases.
✔️ Join expat and local community groups.
✔️ Learn about public transportation.
✔️ Set up a mobile phone and internet connection.
✔️ Register with local authorities if required.
7. Preparing for the First Month
✔️ Create a list of emergency contacts (embassy, police, medical services).
✔️ Keep digital copies of all important documents.
✔️ Prepare for the local climate and pack appropriate clothing.
✔️ Locate nearby supermarkets, banks, and public offices.
✔️ Plan to explore the city and its infrastructure.
Moving to Slovakia after obtaining a residence permit is an exciting opportunity but comes with various organizational tasks. The better you prepare, the smoother your transition and adaptation to your new life will be!
