Temporary protection status for Ukrainian refugees in Slovakia was automatically extended until March 4, 2027. This extension is in accordance with the Council of the European Union’s implementing decision. The government resolution was approved on 21 February 2025. Consequently, asylum seekers can verify the validity of their temporary protection status through the portal of the Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic.
Housing allowance proved to be successful measure of integration support
In response to the humanitarian crisis caused by the war in Ukraine, and the consequent arrival of a large number of people fleeing the conflict, Slovakia introduced a new benefit in April 2022: a housing allowance for Ukrainian temporary protection holders. The housing allowance is paid directly to housing facility owners, including private individuals and business entities, enabling them to provide free accommodation. This measure was important in ensuring Ukrainian refugees in Slovakia had access to safe housing and stability.
The total amount spent on housing allowances in Slovakia between 2022 and 2024 exceeds €102 million. The European Social Fund (ESF+) contributed €27.7 million. Thanks to the housing support scheme, Ukrainian refugees were provided with decent housing, and the measure also supported their socio-economic integration. At the same time, the scheme also supported entrepreneurs in the Slovakian regions in a synergistic manner. Despite significant changes to the housing subsidy over the last four years, including eligibility criteria, length of entitlement, total amount, and eligible recipients, it has proven to be an effective integration mechanism, particularly given the ongoing challenges migrants and refugees face in accessing medium and long-term housing solutions in Slovakia.
Linking evidence and practice to support migrant integration
Debate on the integration of third-country nationals (TCNs) in Slovakia is gaining momentum, with growing emphasis on connecting research, policy, and local practice. A policy event held on 6 March 2026 in Bratislava brought together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to examine how migration decisions are shaped and how policies influence integration outcomes. Discussions highlighted the need to better align empirical evidence with the lived experiences of TCNs, while strengthening coordination across governance levels.
The event reflects a broader shift toward a cross-sectoral approach to TCN integration, recognising the role of local actors and services. Strengthening links between data, policy, and practice is increasingly seen as essential for developing effective and sustainable integration strategies in Slovakia.
Legal amendments to streamline migrant residence and integration
Slovakia has approved an amendment to the Act on Residence of Foreigners, aiming to improve the integration framework for third-country nationals (TCNs). The reform responds to evolving migration dynamics by simplifying administrative procedures, reducing burdens, and strengthening legal clarity on residence, visas, employment, and citizenship.
Key changes include clearer application rules for national visas, defined documentation requirements, set decision deadlines, and an extension of visa validity from 90 to 120 days. These measures are expected to support more predictable pathways for TCNs navigating residence procedures.
The amendment also addresses beneficiaries of temporary protection. Transitional measures will allow eligible individuals to apply for alternative residence permits, helping ensure continuity of legal stay and supporting longer-term integration outcomes.
Recommendations on safeguards for unaccompanied minors
In February 2026, the Human Rights League and the Office of the Commissioner for Children in Slovakia outlined measures to strengthen protection and integration systems for unaccompanied minors displaced from Ukraine. Within a group of over 41 000 children holding temporary protection in Slovakia, an estimated 2 000 – 3 000 are unaccompanied.
Proposed steps include legislative adjustments, improved inter-institutional coordination, clearer legal definitions of guardianship, and administrative tools to better register and support children. Additional measures aim to facilitate consistent access to healthcare, education, and related services. These proposals point to the importance of more coordinated and predictable integration frameworks for minor third-country nationals in Slovakia.
Government introduces new international protection law
The Slovak Ministry of the Interior prepared a new law on international protection to replace the current asylum framework, aiming to streamline procedures and align with EU standards. Key features include asylum processing at external borders with fixed time limits (12–16 weeks), strengthened coordination between authorities and courts, and expanded procedural rights, such as free legal advice and recorded interviews. The law also grants subsidiary protection indefinitely and unifies residence status for asylum and protected persons. It updates related regulations on residence, healthcare, legal aid, and administrative justice. The law, approved by the government on 9 January 2026, is now under parliamentary review.
Guide published on inclusive participation of migrants and refugees
The Office of the Plenipotentiary of the Government for the Development of Civil Society has published Engaging Foreigners in Participatory Processes, a practical guide for policymakers and local authorities on including migrants and refugees in decision-making and local initiatives. The publication aims to support more accessible, inclusive, and effective participation of third-country nationals in Slovak governance and local development.
The guide outlines six key steps for inclusive participation: public commitment to inclusion, understanding and engaging migrant communities, accessible administrative structures, participatory process design, diverse engagement methods, and systematic monitoring and evaluation. It also highlights international good practices as examples.