It is recommended to start preparing your documents at least 2–3 months before your planned arrival, as gathering paperwork and booking appointments can take time. Make sure to contact Slovak embassy to inquiry regarding available visa slots for submission.
Immigration & Visas
Yes, most foreign documents must be officially translated into Slovak by a certified translator, especially documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, and police clearance certificates. Documents issued abroad must be legalized (apostille or superlegalisation) before translation.
Processing time depends on the type of residence and your situation, but typically it takes 30 to 90 days from the date of submission. It’s always best to apply as early as possible and ensure all documents are correctly prepared to avoid delays. Application for foreign police appointment must be done electronically via the official portal.
Home Finding
It’s best to be cautious and check any flat in person before making a payment. For your first days or weeks, you can book short-term accommodation through platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com. Many of these options are conveniently located in the city center of Košice, making it easy to explore and find your long-term home once you arrive.
Rental prices depend on the size and location of the property. On average, a one-bedroom flat near the city center costs around €500–€650 per month, while in outer districts you can find similar flats for €450–€550. Prices might fluctuate during the year - they tend to increase especially during months of July, August and September when academic year in Kosice starts.
Most rentals for expats and students are fully furnished, including furniture, kitchen appliances, and basic household items. However, some long-term rentals aimed at families may be unfurnished — always check the listing details before signing.
In most cases, utilities (electricity, water, heating, internet) are not included in the base rent. They are paid separately, either directly to the providers or as a monthly advance to the landlord. Always ask whether the advertised price is “with utilities” (s energiami) or “without utilities” (bez energií). At the end of the year, the owner will provide a summary of your actual utility consumption. Based on that, you’ll either receive a refund if you used less than estimated or pay the difference if your usage was higher.
School Search
Yes, all English-language kindergartens, primary, secondary school or universities in Košice charge tuition fees. Tuition fee can be usually paid in several installments.
Košice offers a mix of public, private, and international schools. International schools (Splach International School and KEIS) teach primarily in English and follow international or bilingual programs, while public schools teach in Slovak and offer only several subjects in English language.