Slovenia Citizenship by Residency (2025)

How to Obtain Slovenian Citizenship by Residency in 2025

Slovenian citizenship by residency, or naturalization, offers permanent residents the opportunity to join a nation renowned for its Alpine beauty, pristine lakes, and vibrant culture—from Ljubljana’s picturesque charm to Bled’s fairy-tale landscapes. Overseen by the Ministry of the Interior through administrative units, the standard residency requirement is 10 years, including 5 with permanent residency, with exceptions for certain groups. A Slovenian passport, ranked 11th globally (181 visa-free destinations in 2025), provides strong global mobility.

With its stable economy and EU membership, Slovenia attracts professionals, families, and nature enthusiasts. This 2025 guide covers eligibility, residency requirements, application steps, and tips to secure your citizenship efficiently.

Who Qualifies for Citizenship by Residency?

Naturalization is open to legal residents meeting specific criteria. Here’s who qualifies:

Note: Slovenia generally does not allow dual citizenship for naturalized citizens, except in exceptional cases (e.g., Slovenian descent). You may need to renounce your original nationality.

Residency Rules: The 10-Year Pathway

Residency begins with a temporary permit, leading to permanent residency and naturalization. Here’s the breakdown:

• Temporary Residency: 1-10 years via work, family, or study (e.g., temporary residence permit).
• Permanent Residency: Required for at least 5 of the 10 years (permanent residence permit).
• Physical Presence: 10 years total, with no absences exceeding 6 months/year or 10 months total in the last 5 years.

Example: Maria, a Brazilian, moves to Slovenia in April 2015 with a work permit. She obtains permanent residency in 2020 and applies for citizenship in April 2025 after 10 years. If married to a Slovenian citizen, she could apply by April 2016 (1 year).

Key Rule: Absences over 6 months/year or 10 months total in the last 5 years may disrupt residency unless justified (e.g., work, family reasons approved by authorities).

Step-by-Step Application Process

Naturalization is processed by administrative units under the Ministry of the Interior. Here’s the 2025 process:

1. Start Residency: Obtain a temporary residence permit (e.g., for work, family).
2. Meet Residency: Live in Slovenia for 10 years, including 5 with permanent residency (or reduced period if eligible).
3. Gather Documents: Permanent residence permit, passport, birth certificate (translated), police clearance, proof of income, B1 Slovenian certificate.
4. Submit Application: File at an administrative unit; pay €195 fee.
5. Review: Ministry of the Interior processes application (12-18 months, depending on complexity).
6. Notification & ID: Receive decision, take oath of loyalty, then apply for Slovenian passport.

Timeline: 11-11.5 years total (10 years residency + 12-18 months processing).

Costs of Slovenian Citizenship

Costs include fees for residency, application, and passport issuance:

Tips to Secure Your Citizenship

• Check Eligibility: Confirm if you qualify for reduced residency (e.g., spouse, Slovenian descent).
• Stay Resident: Limit absences to under 6 months/year or 10 months total in the last 5 years.
• Learn Slovenian: Achieve B1 Slovenian proficiency early.
• Prove Stability: Show stable income and no social assistance reliance.
• Track Updates: Monitor gov.si for 2025 changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References & Resources

• gov.si - Naturalization and residency info.
• Ministry of the Interior - Official Slovenian government resources.
• Visa Falcon Passport Index - Passport ranking.