Slovakia

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 158 for police 
• Dial 112 for ambulance 
• Dial 0800 212 212 for toll-free domestic violence hotline

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common, especially in Bratislava. They may take place in response to political or economic issues.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

While crime is relatively low, street crimes against tourists do occur in tourist areas.

• The most common crimes reported include pickpocketing, cell phone   backpack, and purse theft, particularly during the summer and Holiday market tourism season and in tourist-oriented nightclubs or bars. 
• Most thefts reported by U.S. citizens occur at crowded tourist sites, such as Bratislava’s Old Town area. They also occur on public buses, trams, trains, or in hostels.
• Be alert to criminal schemes. Thieves, including adults or children, often work in groups or pairs. In many cases, an individual or group distracts the victim, sometimes with musical instruments or pets, so that others can pickpocket.
• Criminals may target tourists at nightclubs and bars. In the past, such establishments have presented foreign customers with inflated bills. Travelers have reported pickpocketing in these establishments.
• Domestic and foreign organized criminal organizations are well established in Slovakia. Though uncommon, violent incidents sometimes do occur.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.   
• Financial scams/internet romance scams are relatively rare in Slovakia. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. 

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating 
• Money transfers

If using dating apps or websites in Slovakia:  

• Be aware that criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.  
• Meet in a popular public place. 
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

• Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112.

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the nearest U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

• English-speaking operators are normally available for emergency calls.
• Once an individual reports a crime, the police must investigate it according to local laws and procedures.
• Embassy employees cannot act as your personal legal representatives or resolve private legal disputes.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.  
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.  
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. 
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks. 
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• To use a drone or certain unmanned aircrafts, you must get a permit from the Transportation Office of Slovakia.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. 
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities. 
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally. 
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. Travelers in mountain regions are advised to review options for mountain insurance as mountain rescue may not be covered by standard travel insurance. Rescue operations without a valid mountain insurance policy may be costly.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

• Review the CDC tips for Adventure Travel.
• You may need special insurance for hiking and skiing, which is available from local providers.
• You may need special insurance for mountain rescue.

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. 
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned. 
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.

It is illegal to take photographs of security or military installations. If you violate this law, authorities may confiscate the pictures and recordings, issue a reprimand or fine, or even expel you from the country.

• Slovak customs authorities enforce strict regulations for temporary import or export of firearms, antiquities, medications, and business equipment. Contact the Embassy of the Slovak Republic or a Slovak consulate in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Slovakia seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy  immediately.  

• Review our information on Laws Abroad.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations. 

• Do not purchase counterfeit or pirated goods. They are illegal in the United States, and you may be breaking local laws as well.  
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.  

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• LGB U.S. Citizens in same-sex marriages or civil unions who travel to or reside in Slovakia may face difficulties and legal issues. The country does not recognize same-sex unions and adopted a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage in 2014. 
• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons based on real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Slovakia.  

Bratislava and Kosice have hosted annual Pride parades without major incident since 2010.

• Slovak law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and classifies crimes based on sexual orientation as hate crimes. However, these laws are not always enforced. 
• Prejudice and societal discrimination persist. People who identify as gay or lesbian occasionally report being victims of verbal abuse in the form of slurs. 
• In 2022, a gunman killed two people and injured a third outside a Bratislava bar in what Slovakia’s National Crime Agency classified as premeditated murder, motivated by hatred of a sexual minority.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Slovakia prohibits discrimination against people with  disabilities. The law is enforced.
• The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in some public transportation, older facilities, lodging, and general infrastructure, especially further from cities. 
• Accessibility is more common in more populated cities like Bratislava and Kosice.
• Many sidewalks are narrow and uneven, and small towns may lack sidewalks.
• Some municipal spaces, such as post offices, hospitals, shopping centers, and libraries have either an elevator or platforms to accommodate customers who cannot use stairs. Small restaurants and shops are less likely to be accessible.
• Traffic lights in some city centers have a sound signal for the visually impaired. However, it is reported that they are often out-of-service.  Public signs for the visually impaired are uncommon.
• The state television channels provide broadcasting for the hearing-impaired. Important national events frequently have visible sign language interpretation in real-time.
• Public transportation and the railway stations generally lack elevators and do not provide easy access for people with mobility issues. This is true even in the capital city of Bratislava.
• Only a few buses are equipped with lowering platforms, while trams have none. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Slovakia to receive a list of providers.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Review our information for Women Travelers. 
• Review our information on Marriage. 
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Slovakia Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations. 
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Slovakia. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most care providers abroad expect on-site cash or credit card payments.  unless the patient can present an insurance number from the Slovak National Insurance Company or show proof of private insurance before receiving medical care.
• Without Slovak health insurance, ambulance service starts at 120 euros (or equivalent in USD) per transport.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• Make sure you receive complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.
• Doctors and nurses may speak little or no English.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention.

• The tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccination is recommended. Contact your doctor for more information
• Even though the CDC does not explicitly recommend the TBE vaccine, other official European sources have recommended the TBE vaccine for travelers who plan to stay for extended periods or who plan to camp and stay outdoors. Vaccines are available through a general practitioner or a pediatrician in Slovakia but are not available in the United States.
• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available throughout Slovakia. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies, especially in rural areas.  
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is available in Slovakia through government, both public and private. Private hospitals that may charge those without Slovak insurance a fee for services.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Slovakia.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• Although Slovakia has some elective and cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies.  If you plan to undergo surgery in Slovakia, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are available through the Office of Supervision of Healthcare Providers at the Public Health Authority. Official communication is in Slovak language only.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Slovakia does not allow the importation of medication unless the traveler shows the prescription and the amount necessary for the trip. 
• Check with the Slovakia Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Slovakia. A permit is required from the Ministry of Health to import any medication to Slovakia by mail, even if it is for personal use.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 
• The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine

• Officially licensed medical providers can be verified via the Ministry of Health portal.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• Surrogacy is illegal in Slovakia.   
• If you are considering traveling to Slovakia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART), please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is safe to drink and use in cooking.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Slovakia.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.
• Cities in Slovakia have air pollution levels like those in major U.S. cities. Levels are generally low during the warm season but sometimes worse than U.S. standards in the cold season. Visit the European Environment Agency’s website for information on air quality in Slovakia.

Road conditions and safety

• Roads in Slovakia are generally safe and well-maintained. Highways with 4 lanes are common near Bratislava. However, most roads outside developed areas are 2 lanes.
• Be aware of aggressive drivers who may pass at unsafe speeds.
• Be extra careful when driving outside cities at night. The roads can be narrow, winding, and poorly lit.
• Slovakia gets heavy snow from November to March, especially in the northern mountains. Snow removal on rural roads is often inadequate, making driving conditions dangerous. 
• The law requires winter tires for snowy conditions, and chains are necessary in certain mountainous areas.

Traffic laws

• Children under 12 years old, under 80 pounds, or shorter than 5 feet must use a car seat or booster seat.
• You need a license and must wear a helmet to drive a motorcycle or motorized 2-wheeled vehicle.
• Every vehicle must have a reflective safety vest and a first aid kit.
• Driving after drinking any alcohol is illegal in Slovakia. The legal blood alcohol limit is zero. Police often stop cars randomly to do breath tests.
• If you get a ticket, you can pay the fine by credit card or in cash directly to the officer who will issue a receipt. If you don’t pay on the spot, you’ll need to go to a police station later, and the fine will be higher.
• As of January 1, 2016, you need to buy an electronic vignette to use certain highways and motorways. A vignette is a sticker that fixes the windscreen to be clearly visible from the outside, showing that you’ve paid to drive along those roads. Learn how to purchase a vignette.
• A driver’s license issued in the United States is valid for driving in Slovakia for a maximum of 90 days.
• If you become a long-term resident, you’ll need to exchange your U.S. state driver’s license for a Slovak driver’s license within a certain time after getting your residency permit.
• For more details about getting Slovak driver’s license, visit the Dopravny Inspektorat at the district police department where you live.
• For information about driver’s permit, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, contact the Embassy of Slovakia in Washington, D.C.
• You can also find more details about driving in Slovakia on the embassy website.
• If you are involved in a traffic accident in which there are no injuries, no damage to roads or public utilities, and there are no dangerous remaining debris, it is not mandatory to call the police. However, a driver may choose to do so by calling 158.
• It is recommended to complete a report about the accident for insurance claims as provided by the Ministry of the Interior.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis and ride share apps are safe to use in Slovakia.

Public and commercial transportation

• Buses, trolleybuses, and trams in Slovakia are safe and reliable. If you need a taxi, we recommend using clearly marked taxicabs.
• On public transportation, you must validate your ticket when you get on. The ticket will cover your entire trip. In major cities, you can also buy tickets by SMS through a local phone provider.
• Many cities offer passes that are valid for different time periods, from 24 hours to one year. Children aged 6 to 15 can pay reduced fares.
• Ticket inspectors randomly check passengers for valid tickets. If you don’t have one, you’ll be fined. Inspectors will show an ID card and must give you a receipt for the fine.
• You can find more information in English on the Bratislava city transport website or the websites of other cities with public transportation.
• Visit the website of Slovakia’s Road Administration for more information about road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Slovakia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. The International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) Program includes more information on its assessment.

Weather Condition

• Flooding – May occur during March to August. This can happen near rivers like the Danube due to heavy rain or snowmelt.
• Severe storms –Occur from June to August. Summer thunderstorms with heavy rain, strong winds, and hail.
• Snowstorms and extreme cold – Occur from November to March. Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures are common, especially in mountainous areas.
• Drought –Can occur from June to August. Hot, dry summers can impact agriculture and water supplies.
• Landslides – Occur from March to May and from September to November. They are triggered by heavy rain or snowmelt in hilly areas.

Helpful resources:

• Dial 112 for emergencies
• Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute (SHMÚ)
• Slovak Water Management Authority
• Mountain Rescue Service
• Slovak Geological Institute for risk assessments

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.