In a significant move to attract global remote talent, the European nation of Slovenia has officially launched its own digital nomad visa. This new temporary residence permit, which came into effect on November 21, 2025, allows professionals working remotely for companies outside Slovenia to live and work in the picturesque country for up to a year. The initiative marks Slovenia's entry into the competitive landscape of European destinations vying for the growing population of location-independent workers.
What Does Slovenia's Digital Nomad Visa Offer?
Issued as a temporary residence permit valid for a maximum of one year, this visa is designed specifically for short-term, mobile professionals and is non-renewable. A major advantage for holders is Slovenia's membership in the Schengen Area. This allows visa holders to travel freely across 29 European countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without needing additional visas. The permit also includes a flexible family reunification policy, permitting immediate family members to join the primary applicant—a benefit not commonly found in similar European visas.
The visa is tailored for those seeking an immersive European experience beyond typical tourism. Imagine working from a café beside the Ljubljanica River in the capital, Ljubljana, and spending weekends exploring the Alps or the Adriatic coast. Slovenia, nestled between Italy, Austria, and Croatia, is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, historic wineries, and a refreshingly relaxed pace of life.
Eligibility and Key Requirements for Applicants
To qualify for the Slovenia digital nomad visa, applicants must meet a specific set of criteria. They must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid passport from a non-EU/EEA country. Crucially, applicants must work remotely as an employee, freelancer, or business owner for clients or companies based outside Slovenia and are prohibited from entering the Slovenian labour market under this permit.
A key financial requirement is proof of a minimum monthly income of €3,200 (approximately INR 3.39 lakh), which is twice Slovenia's average net monthly salary. Applicants must also provide a clean criminal background check and hold international health insurance valid for their entire stay. The required documents include passport copies, proof of remote work, recent bank statements (typically 3-12 months), the criminal record check, health insurance proof, a Slovenian accommodation address, and a completed application form.
Application Process and Important Details
Interested foreign nationals must apply for this temporary residence permit at a Slovenian embassy or consulate in their home country. Those already legally residing in Slovenia on another permit can apply through a local administrative unit. While the visa launched on November 21, 2025, detailed procedural guidelines are available on the official Slovenian government website.
It is important to note that the digital nomad permit is valid for only one year and cannot be extended. However, applicants can reapply six months after their permit expires. If a visa holder wishes to stay longer or transition to local employment, they must apply for a different type of residence permit before their nomad visa expires. This structure reflects Slovenia's intent to attract temporary remote professionals while maintaining control over long-term migration.
For Indian professionals and digital nomads worldwide, Slovenia's new visa program presents a compelling opportunity to establish a serene and scenic European base. It combines the practical benefits of Schengen access with the unique charm of one of Europe's most underrated destinations, offering a perfect blend of work and travel.
