Do I Need ETIAS for Slovakia? A Complete Guide for Travelers

If you’re planning a trip to Slovakia and wondering whether or not you need ETIAS authorization, you’re not alone. 

Slovakia, a landlocked country in central Europe, offers majestic mountain views, historic towns with cobblestone streets, beautiful castles, and more. It’s no wonder millions of tourists make Slovakia their destination each and every year.

Understanding which travel requirements pertain to you is essential when planning a hassle-free trip to Slovakia.

This article will walk you through everything you need to know about ETIAS and how it applies to your upcoming visit to Bratislava, Košice, or wherever it is you’re off to in the stunning country of Slovakia!

Do I need ETIAS to visit Slovakia?

Yes, from 2025 on, if you are from a visa-exempt country and do not hold a current Schengen visa, you will need ETIAS to visit Slovakia.

Who does this apply to? 

Citizens from the US, UK, Australia, Japan, Canada, and others will need to apply for authorization (ETIAS) before visiting any country in the Schengen area, which Slovakia is. 

It is important to note: if you’re from a visa-exempt country (such as any of the countries listed above) and are planning a trip to Slovakia that exceeds 90 days, you need to apply for a Slovakian visa. ETIAS is only for short trips for leisure or business and is not a substitute for a visa. ETIAS isn’t a visa - it’s approval to enter the area. 

If you are a citizen of any country in the Schengen area, you do not need ETIAS to enter Slovakia. If you’re not from a visa-exempt country (India or China for example), you do not need to apply for ETIAS to travel to Slovakia. Instead, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa.

Do I need ETIAS if I have a Slovakia visa?

No. If you hold a valid visa for Slovakia, you don’t need to apply for ETIAS. ETIAS is only required for travelers who do not have a visa or are not citizens of a Schengen country. 

How to apply for ETIAS for Slovakia

Obtaining ETIAS authorization for your trip to Slovakia is quick, easy, and entirely online. In fact, you will usually get ETIAS approval in just a few minutes. 

How to get ETIAS for Slovakia: step-by-step

• Step one: fill out the form on ETIAS with your travel plans. You’ll also need to share personal details, such as your name and nationality. Your passport number is also required, so make sure you have it on hand. 
• Step two: answer a few questions about your personal history. According to the official European Union website, you’ll be asked to share your parents’ first names, current occupation, and level of education. You’ll also be asked about any past criminal convictions.
• Step three: pay the ETIAS fee. There is a small application fee that can be paid using a credit or debit card (around 7 euros)
• Step five: Enjoy your trip to Slovakia!: Once your ETIAS is approved, it will be automatically linked to your passport for authorities to see. However, it never hurts to print out your approval or screenshot a digital copy, just in case.
• Step six: wait for your approval: ETIAS approval is usually immediate and you will be notified via email, so keep an eye on your inbox. With that being said, approval can take up to 14 business days. While this is uncommon, it can happen, so plan accordingly. 

If I get an ETIAS for Slovakia, can I travel to other Schengen countries with it?

According to the EU website, a valid ETIAS does permit you to travel throughout the Schengen area and Cyprus. With that being said, it does not guarantee entry. Border guards can still deny you entry.

ETIAS for Slovakia: highlights

• ETIAS is required for visitors to Slovakia who do not have a Schengen visa/passport from 2025 on. 
• The ETIAS application is online and only takes a few minutes. 
• Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first.
• Slovakian and Schengen country citizens do not need ETIAS.
• Current Slovakia visa holders do not need ETIAS.
• The ETIAS application costs 7 euros (but is free for those under the age of 18 or over 70).
• ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization that permits you to enter a Schengen country. 
• ETIAS is valid for travel by air, land, or sea. 
• ETIAS permits you to enter any Schengen country and Cyprus, but entry isn’t guaranteed and will be decided by local border guards. 
• You can appeal a denied ETIAS application. 
• Approval is usually immediate but can take up to 30 days, so plan accordingly.