How to Extend Temporary Protection Status in Slovakia
Temporary protection in Slovakia (dočasné útočisko) has been extended automatically until 4 March 2027. Here is what that means in practice, whether you need to do anything yourself, how to check your status and what happens next.
The extension is automatic
The main thing to understand: you do not need to submit an application for an extension. Slovakia has extended the status automatically for everyone who already holds it, in line with the decision of the Council of the European Union.
That does not mean you can do nothing at all. The authorities may require you to update your data — confirmation that you are still in the country and that your details have not changed. This is done online through an electronic form, or in person.
How to check whether your status is valid
You can check the validity period on the portal of the Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic. It is worth doing this from time to time, especially before applying for documents, starting a job or claiming benefits — employers and institutions check your status in the database, not against the paper you are holding.
If the system shows that your status is inactive but you are sure it is not, go to the foreigners’ department (oddelenie azylu / cudzineckej polície) in person and sort it out there. Errors in the database do happen, and it is better to find them in advance than on the day you need the document.
Which documents prove your status
- The paper confirmation of temporary protection, in A4 format — issued at registration.
- The tolerated-stay document (doklad o tolerovanom pobyte s označením „odídenec“) — a plastic card, issued later.
Keep the document valid and with you. You need it for work, medical care, school for your children, the bank and almost any dealing with an institution.
What happens after March 2027
An important detail few people know: a person who was granted temporary protection before 3 March 2027 is still considered an odídenec for one more year after the end of that grant. In other words, the status does not stop abruptly the next day.
Even so, you should not count on endless extensions. The sensible strategy is to think ahead about moving to an ordinary residence permit: through work, business, study or family reunification. The possible grounds are covered in our article on types of residence permit in Slovakia.
What temporary protection gives you
- The right to work without a separate permit. The employer only notifies the labour office.
- Medical care to the extent laid down by law.
- Education for children — school is compulsory and available on the same terms as for Slovak children.
- The possibility of running a business.
- Access to some social benefits if you meet the conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to apply for an extension?
No, the extension is automatic. But check whether you are required to update your data, and keep an eye on your status on the Ministry of the Interior portal.
What if I was outside Slovakia for a long time?
A long absence can affect your status. If you were away for an extended period, check where you stand with the authorities rather than waiting for problems when you look for a job.
Can I hold temporary protection in two EU countries?
No. The status is granted in one country, and the databases of EU countries are linked to one another.
Do I lose the status if I get a residence permit through work?
That is a move to a different basis of residence. Before changing anything, get advice — the consequences depend on your particular situation, and a mistake here is costly.
Can I travel to Ukraine and come back?
Short trips are usually possible, but the rules and the practice change. Check the current conditions before you travel so that you do not run into problems on your return.
For official information about residence, see here: the official portal for citizens of Ukraine.
Official sources
Current information and a status check are available on the website of the Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic and in the UNHCR Slovakia guide. Help and advice are also provided by the IOM Migration Information Centre.
On related topics, you may find ways to find work in Slovakia and our full guide to moving here useful.
Important. The information in this article has been collected from publicly available sources online and is accurate at the time of publication. Residence rules, deadlines and requirements change through decisions of the government and of EU bodies. This article is not legal advice. Before taking any step that affects your legal status, check the current information on the website of the Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic and consult a relevant specialist — a migration lawyer or the Migration Information Centre.