Formal requirements

​Slovenia does not currently offer a Golden Visa or citizenship by investment program. However, there are alternative pathways for investors and entrepreneurs seeking residency in Slovenia.​

 

Other investment opportunities

You can reside in Slovenia for various purposes. A clear and demonstrable purpose of residence is one of the conditions for obtaining a residence permit:

  • employment or work,

  • self-employment,

  • seasonal work,

  • cross-border worker,

  • EU blue card,

  • etc.

 

Purpose of residence – self-employment

  • Before engaging in self-employed activities in Slovenia, you must have been residing in Slovenia on the basis of a valid residence permit for at least one year except in the case you entered in the business register as a person pursuing a professional activity in a self-employed capacity (for example as a lawyer, private doctor, detective, etc.).

  • A single permit for a self-employed person is issued for the period necessary to fulfil the purpose of residence, but not for more than one year.

  • It can be extended for up to two years provided that you still fulfil the conditions required for issuing the first residence permit.

  • You must apply for a single permit for a self-employed worker at a diplomatic mission or consular post of the Republic of Slovenia abroad or at the administrative unit in the area where you reside in the Republic of Slovenia.

 

EU Blue Card – Single Permit for Highly Qualified Employment in Slovenia

  • It is issued for three months more than the validity of the employment contract, but for a maximum of two years. It may be extended for a maximum of three years.

  • During the first two years of legal employment, you can change your employer or job position with the same employer, but you must submit a request to the administrative unit.

  • After two years, you no longer need to request approval to change employers, but you must notify the administrative unit.

  • Upon submitting your application or a timely renewal request, you receive a certificate that serves as a temporary residence permit.

 

Residence Permit through Business Investment

For a business to operate in Slovenia permanently, the owner is required to register the company as a business entity.

  • Company Registration: The applicant must establish a business entity in Slovenia, such as a limited liability company (d.o.o.), and be actively involved in its operations.

  • Investment Requirement: The company must make a significant economic contribution to Slovenia. This can be demonstrated in one of the following ways:

    • Investing a minimum of €50,000 into the business within the first six months after company registration (e.g., for purchasing equipment, inventory, or business development).

    • Employing at least one Slovenian (or EU) citizen for a minimum period, contributing to job creation and the local economy.

    • Generating at least €10,000 per month in revenue over six consecutive months before applying for the permit.

    • Duration and Renewal of the Permit

    • The initial residence permit is typically granted for one year.

    • It can be renewed if the business remains active, meets financial performance criteria, and continues to contribute to the Slovenian economy.

    • After five years of continuous residence, the applicant may be eligible to apply for permanent residency in Slovenia, provided they meet all legal conditions.

 Document link for further information.

https://spot.gov.si/en/info/how-can-non-eu-nationals-start-a-business-in-slovenia/