Slovakia Citizens Granted Temporary Visa-Free Travel to China

Key Points 

• Visa-free entry to China for eligible Slovak citizens is in effect from 8 November 2024, through 31 December 2025 

Visa Program For Chinese Nationals in Slovakia

Effective 1 July 2025, Slovakia launched a new national visa program for Chinese nationals employed by Slovak-based companies affiliated with Chinese corporate groups. The initiative is part of broader efforts to attract foreign investment and accelerate major projects. 

Eligible applicants must hold a valid Slovak employment contract or a formal job offer. The visa is open to all job categories—including unskilled roles—and will be valid for up to one year. While the visa cannot be renewed, holders may apply for temporary residence while in Slovakia if they wish to stay beyond the initial validity period. 

Family members are not eligible for dependent status under this visa program. 

The program is subject to an annual quota of 1,000 visas and has an estimated processing time of two to three months. 

Employers must be registered Slovak legal entities within a Chinese corporate group, free of labor law violations or outstanding tax/social insurance obligations and engaged in or approved for regional or extraordinary investment aid—or hold a significant investment certificate from Slovakia’s Ministry of Economy.