Slovenia Digital Nomad Visa
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Andy Stofferis
Freelance Writer
Last update
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Slovenia Rating from Citizen Remote
Overall 
3.8
Internet Infrastructure 4.0
Country Stability 4.0
Cost of Living 5.0
Ease of Obtaining Visa 2.0
Taxes 4.0
Quick Visa Facts
Visa length 12 months
Possible to extend? Yes
Who can apply? Register a business that you work for in Slovenia
Minimum Income Requirements
Time for visa applications 15 days
Want to know if you can apply?
Complete a visa quiz and see if you qualify!
Slovenia Digital Nomad Visa Overview
Slovenia is at the center of Europe and is one of the most affordable countries in the region. Unfortunately, there is no specific Digital Nomad Visa Slovenia. The most accessible visa for digital nomads is a Schengen Tourist Visa that lets you stay in the region for up to 90 days.
Slovenia does have a self-employment visa, which is granted for one year in the first instance. However, you must first enter Slovenia on a short-term visa and register a business locally for which you will work. You can then apply for the self-employment visa.
The neighboring country of Hungary offers a one-year digital nomad visa, which offers a great opportunity to explore Slovenia too. You can spend up to 90 days of your one-year Hungary digital nomad visa in Slovenia.
Who Can Apply for the Schengen Tourist Visa for Slovenia?
The Schengen tourist visa is open to people of all nationalities. Some passport holders can travel to Slovenia visa-free and will receive the visa in their passport upon arrival. Other nationalities need to secure the visa in advance.
The visa allows you to stay in the Schengen region for up to 90 days within any 180 days. Working in Slovenia with a tourist or visitor visa, or during visa-free stay, including remote work, is illegal. However, as an EEA or EU citizen, you can be a digital nomad in Slovenia for three months with no restrictions.
If You Are a United States Citizen
If you are a United States citizen, you do not need to apply for a Schengen tourist visa before you travel to Slovenia. When you arrive, you will receive a visa stamp in your passport, and that will let you stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days. You must then wait another 90 days before you can return to the Schengen area.
If You Are an EU Citizen
EU and EEA citizens, plus citizens of Liechtenstein and Switzerland, do not require a visa to travel to Slovenia. If you choose to stay for more than three months you should register as a resident with your local administrative authority. You can find a list of regional authorities in Slovenia here.
If You Hold an EU Residence Visa
If you are a non-EU citizen but you hold a residence visa for another EU country, for example, a remote work visa, you can travel to Slovenia for a period of up to 90 days in any 180 days. You do not need to apply for another visa before traveling. Neighboring Hungary currently offers a one-year digital nomad visa.
If You Are a Citizen from Canada, Australia, or New Zealand
Citizens of Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can also travel to the Schengen area visa-free. Upon arrival, you can stay in the region for up to 90 days within any 180 days. You must leave the Schengen area and cannot return until your six months have expired.
If You Reside in Any Other Country
Residents of around 60 countries can travel to the Schengen area visa-free. You can see which nationalities require a visa and which can travel visa-free here.
Citizens of countries that do need to apply for a visa before traveling should book an appointment at the consulate or the embassy of their European destination country. If you are traveling to more than one country, choose the country where you will enter the Schengen area or pass the most time.
You will need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Europe, which is considered to be about €65 per day. You should also demonstrate that you have a return or onward flight booked for before the expiration of your visa. The standard Schengen visa fee is €80.
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Who Can Apply for the Slovenia Self-Employment Visa?
If you wish to stay in Slovenia for longer than 90 days, you may be able to obtain a one-year self-employment visa if you are willing to register a business in Slovenia. You must also be the majority owner of that business and work for that business, which will apply for a work permit for you.
The visa can be renewed on a two-year basis following the initial grant. But keep in mind that your business must operate within Slovenia and benefit the Slovenian economy.
How to Apply for the Slovenia Self-Employment Visa: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for a self-employment visa in Slovenia is a complex process and you must commit to entering the country before you obtain the visa. See exactly what is required in the step-by-step guide below.
Step 1: Enter Slovenia on a Tourist Visa
To start the process of obtaining a self-employment visa you must be in Slovenia. So travel to Slovenia on a tourist visa. The process for obtaining a Schengen Tourist Visa is explained above.
Step 2: Obtain A Tax Number
To obtain a personal tax number, complete the form for obtaining a tax number for foreigners and submit the form in person or by post at the tax administration office. When submitted in person, the number is assigned immediately.
Step 3: Register Your Business
You must now establish or co-establish a business in Slovenia. It must be a limited liability company (LLC) or a sole trader (SP). You must hold the majority share in the business, at least 51%, and intend to be employed by your company.
You should submit the legal forms to establish the business via the Slovenian Business Point Portal or in person at a physical SPOT location. Guidance on the required documentation can be found here.
There is no charge for registering the business, but you must have evidence of at least €7,500 in capital invested in the business.
Step 4: Apply for a Work Permit for Yourself
Once you have registered your business, you can apply for a work permit for yourself. Unlike for other jobs, as the majority shareholder you do not need to show that there are no EU candidates that can fill your position.
You do need to pay yourself a minimum salary of €28,006 per year for the position to qualify for a work permit.
The application for a work permit for you as the majority owner should be submitted to the Employment Service of Slovenia using this form and providing supporting documentation. There is a €90 fee.
It takes 30-60 days for a work permit to be granted, so you may need to leave Slovenia while you are waiting if your tourist visa expires.
Step 5: Apply for a Single Work and Residence Permit
Finally, you can apply for your single work and residence permit. You should apply for your visa at the Ministry in Slovenia or at a Slovenian embassy in a country where you are legally resident. Guidance on making an appointment and payment is provided by the individual embassy.
You will need to gather the required documentation, which includes:
A completed application form
Your valid passport
A recent passport photo of yourself
A copy of your business license
A copy of your work permit
Proof that the visa fee as been paid
You will need to submit the documentation in person, which also gives consular staff an opportunity to make an initial assessment of your application. You will also submit your biometric fingerprints with your paperwork.
Step 6: Register Your Residence
Once you have obtained your visa and you are in Slovenia, you have eight days to register as a resident with your local administrative authority. You can find a list of regional authorities in Slovenia here.
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Timeline for Applying for the Slovenia Self-Employment Visa
Registering your business in Slovenia usually takes three days from the day you submit your application. It should take 30-60 days for your work permit application to be processed. Once you make an appointment at the consulate and submit your application, you can expect a decision on your visa within 15 days.
Due to the waiting period for the work permit, you can expect the entire application process to take 60-90 days.
How Much Does Applying for a Slovenia Self-Employment Visa Cost?
There are a variety of fees to consider when budgeting for your Slovenia self-employment visa.
The initial Schengen Tourist Visa has a €80 application fee if you do not qualify for visa-free travel to Slovenia.
There is no fee for obtaining a Slovenian tax number.
There is no fee for registering your business, but you must demonstrate that you have at least €7,500 in business capital.
There is a €90 fee to obtain a work permit for yourself.
The application fee for a single residence and work permit is €102 if you apply from abroad and €70 if you apply from within Slovenia.
A residence permit card costs €12.
Because you have employment in Slovenia, with your company, you do not need to demonstrate funds to support yourself. However, your work contract should be worth at least €28,006 per year.
Taxes in Slovenia
If you register a business in Slovenia, you will also be required to pay local taxes. Corporate income tax is set at 19%.
Personal income tax is set at a progressive rate starting at 16% and rising to 50% for the highest earners.
As an employer, you will also need to make social security contributions. This is 16.1% paid by the employer and 22.1% paid by the employee.
If you are also earning money abroad, you may become liable to pay local taxes when you are resident in Slovenia for more than 181 days.
However, Slovenia does have double taxation treaties with many countries including all EU countries, Canada, and the United States. Notably, Slovenia does not have double taxation agreements with Australia or New Zealand.
Slovenia Visa Denial
If your visa is rejected, you can appeal the decision within eight days of receiving your answer by sending an appeal letter to the Slovenian embassy that handled your application.
There is a non-refundable appeal fee of €153. You can re-apply for the visa if your appeal is rejected.
Living in Slovenia as a Digital Nomad
Formerly part of the Republic of Yugoslavia, Slovenia is a young nation, only gaining independence in 1991. It is located in the center of Europe, very close to the Mediterranean coasts of Italy and Croatia, and shares Alpine mountains with Austria. It is perfect for summer sunshine and mountains and lakes in the winter.
Digital nomads can enjoy an affordable cost of living in Slovenia when compared to neighboring countries, though taxes are high. The streets are clean and the food is fresh and tasty, plus the country produces first-class wine. Slovenia is also one of the safest countries in the world.
Capital Ljubljana
Form of Government Parliamentary Republic
Population 2.1 million
Climate Sun-Mediterranean and Alpine
Language Slovenian
Currency Euro
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Slovenia is an inherently creative society and has a good range of museums and galleries. It hosts many festivals dedicated to music, dance, food, wine, and beer. Every village and hill has a church, and there are more than 3,000 sacred buildings in the small country. These sit along castles, fortresses, and manors dating from the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque eras.
Slovenia has excellent digital infrastructure, with good broadband coverage in the cities and towns and 4G coverage across the entire country, even in remote mountain ranges. The country also has a Digital Slovenia Strategy that is investing to accelerate digital transformation across the nation. The government recently released a national blockchain infrastructure. All this means lots of opportunities for innovative digital nomads.
Attractions and Best Places to Visit
There are a lot of things to see and do in Slovenia, but these attractions should be at the top of your must-visit list.
Bled
Bled is an incredible lake in Slovenia with a natural island in its center that is home to a beautiful church. The region is surrounded by Alpine peaks and a castle that towers over the lake from a lofty peak.
Postojna Cave
This is a world of underground caves and you can take a train through the natural tunnels and halls that are thousands of years old. It is also home to Predjama Castle, the largest cave castle in the world.
Skocjan Caves
This is the world’s largest subterranean canyon and was once a famous mercury mine. It is home to ancient beech forests and marshes.
Piran
This is one of the few towns on Slovenia’s short coast and it displays its medieval roots with pride. It is also where salt and world-class fleur de sel are harvested using traditional methods.
Soca River Valley
An emerald-green Alpine river runs through this gorgeous valley. It was also the location of the Isonzo Front, the bloodiest mountain battle in history.
Digital Nomad Hotspots
Slovenia has a variety of livable cities that digital nomads would be pleased to call home for a few months.
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Ljubljana
City in Slovenia
The country’s lively capital is the biggest and most lively city in the country. It is where you will find all the best cultural venues, restaurants, and nightlife. Located in the center of the country, it is also just a 1.5-hour drive from the beach and from Croatia, and only about 30 minutes from the mountains. Ljubljana is a fairytale city with historic buildings and green spaces.
Most of the innovative work being done to digitize services in Slovenia is happening in Ljubljana, which makes it the best place to find new partners and innovation opportunities.
Since coffee and snacks are affordable in Slovenia, many digital nomads prefer to work in busy cafes rather than coworking spaces. Among the best cafes are Lolita Bakery, Cafetino, and Todz. If you prefer a coworking space, try ABC Hub, Kreativni Center Polygon, and Impact Hub Ljubljana.
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Koper
City in Slovenia
Koper is one of the oldest cities in the country and is one of the few cities with a Mediterranean coastline. The beaches are beautiful, the climate is warm, and there are lots of expats and digital nomads. Expect boutique-lined streets and bars tucked into old medieval streets.
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Kranj
City in Slovenia
Kranj is the most important city in the Slovenian Alps and it is a historic city with more than 6,000 years of history. While it is only a 30-minute drive from the capital, it feels much smaller and more relaxed. This is the ideal town for avid walkers since it is close to three mountain ranges, Triglav, Stol, and Grintavec.
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Maribor
City in Slovenia
Maribor is the second largest city in the country located in the northeastern corner of the country. It sits in a peaceful wine region and has a quaint community vibe with lots of cozy cafes and local bars. It is very close to the Mariborsko Pohorje Ski Resort.
Benefits of Working in Slovenia as a Digital Nomad
There are many excellent benefits for digital nomads who choose to call Slovenia home for a period of time.
Naturally Beautiful
Slovenia is a remarkably beautiful country, and it feels like every corner of the country is spectacular. Gorgeous lakes, Alpine mountains, stunning beaches, and historic fairytale buildings.
Affordable Cost of Living
Slovenia is one of the most affordable countries in the region with low rent and affordable essentials. The cost of living is estimated to be around half of that in the United States, about 30% less than in neighboring Austria.
Technological Innovation
Slovenia is striving to be at the forefront of technological innovation and released the Digital Slovenia 2030 Strategy to push forward innovation. They are also piloting blockchain infrastructure of government services. There are lots of opportunities to get involved in innovative projects in Slovenia.
Great Weather
The Slovenia climate has it all with hot summers worthy of southern Italy and mountain ranges that compare with the Swiss Alps. Rain is sparing, and while the winters are cold they feel delightfully crips.
Good Transport Links
Slovenia is just a few hours from some of Europe’s most fascinating cities. It is just 3.5 hours from Vienna, Austria, 2 hours from Zagreb, Croatia, and shares long borders with Italy and Hungary. There are excellent flight and train connections.
Traditional Culture
Slovenia retains many rural traditions when it comes to things like food and wine production. This means healthy and tasty food and lots of delicious wines and craft beers., but all at an affordable price. It feels natural, healthy, and fascinating.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Slovenia is highly affordable, starting with accessible rents. Even in the capital, you can get an apartment to yourself for as little as $500 per month. However, many landlords advertise locally, so it is best to find short-term accommodation and then look for a long-term Slovenian rental after you arrive.
The cost of living is estimated to be about half that of the United States and about 30% less than neighboring Austria.
Groceries are highly affordable and of excellent quality, and eating out is also cheap. You can expect a good lunchtime meal to cost less than $10 and an evening meal less than $20. Monthly public transport around the city is only around $30.
| Location | Estimated monthly cost for a single person (excluding rent) | Estimated monthly cost for 1 bedroom home | Estimated monthly cost for 3 bedroom home |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slovenia (general) | US$800 | US$500-$650 | US$900-$1200 |
| Ljubljana | US$850 | US$630-$790 | US$1150-$1500 |
| Koper | US$800 | US$480-$600 | US$1000-$1300 |
| Kranj | US$750 | US$360-$480 | US$770-$930 |
| Maribor | US$980 | US$630-$700 | US$950-$1175 |
The local currency in Slovenia is the Euro, which is currently worth around the same amount as the US$ or a few cents more.
Digital Nomad Essentials
Internet (speed) av. 80 Mbps
Time Zone GMT+2
Socket Type Type C and F
SIM Providers: Telekom Slovenije, A1, IZI, Airalo
Getting a local SIM card can be a major hassle, especially if you only intend to stay in a country for a limited period of time. There are often strict ID requirements and canceling the SIM when you are done can be challenging. A better option is to download an eSIM, which you can do before you travel and have data when you arrive.
You can find eSIMs from a huge range of regional and global providers that cover all countries, including Slovenia, in the Citizen Remote all-in-one app. Have reliable connectivity as soon as you land and don’t rely on sketchy public Wi-Fi!
Book Your Tickets to Slovenia
While there is no Slovenia nomad visa, the country is attracting many digital nomads thanks to its forward-looking digital strategy. Couple this with the incredible natural landscape, stunning historical towns, and delicious cuisine, and Slovenia is definitely worth putting on your digital nomad wish list.
The beautiful country is right in the center of Europe and has great travel links with the surrounding countries. It also has one of the most affordable costs of living in the region, making it a great base for travelers.
You can also consider getting a one-year digital nomad visa for neighboring Hungary and spending some of your time in Slovenia.
FAQs About the Slovenia Digital Nomad Visa
Does Slovenia have a digital nomad visa?
Slovenia does not have a visa for digital nomads. The easiest way for most people to visit Slovenia is on a Schengen tourist visa that allows you to stay in the region for up to 90 days in six months. There is a two-year self-employment visa available for Slovenia, but it requires registering a business locally. Neighboring Hungary does offer a one-year digital nomad visa.
What is the length of a visa for Slovenia?
The standard Schengen tourist visa allows you to stay in the Schengen area, which includes Slovenia, for up to 90 days in six months.
Is it possible to extend your Slovenia visa?
You cannot extend a Schengen tourist visa. Once you have spent 90 days in the area, you must wait until a total of 180 days have passed before you can apply for another visa. The Slovenia self-employment visa is extendable. After the initial two years, you can extend the visa for three years at a time.
Will you get a refund if your Slovenia visa application is denied?
Application fees for a Slovenian visa are non-refundable. Moreover, if you want to appeal your visa denial, you must pay an additional €153 to finance the appeal.
How much money do you need per month in Slovenia?
You probably need around US$1000-$1500 per month to live comfortably in Slovenia. You can expect to pay at least US$500 for an apartment, but you can find cheaper accommodation if you choose to share. Other expenses will cost you around an additional US$800 per month.
Is there a digital nomad community in Slovenia?
Due to restrictions on visas, the digital nomad and expat community in Slovenia is small, but growing. There is a healthy local community of digital workers and entrepreneurs that are fueling a thriving economy for coworking spaces and innovation hubs.
Which of Slovenia’s neighboring countries issue visas for digital nomads?
While Slovenia does not have a digital nomad visa, several of its neighboring countries do. Hungary offers a one-year digital nomad visa renewable for a second year. Croatia offers a one-year digital nomad visa, and Italy has also announced a one-year digital nomad visa. Nearby Greece, Latvia, and Estonia also offer good digital nomad visas.
Author
Andy Stofferis is a digital nomad blogger: www.andysto.com
He is a contributing writer for various organizations and media involved in the digital nomad industry (AllWork.Space, e-Residency Estonia).
Andy has been running a fully remote digital marketing agency over the past nine years while traveling to more than 50 destinations.
