Living in Slovenia: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Slovenia.
Located at the cultural crossroads of Central Europe, Slovenia is very welcoming towards expatriates. Blending rustic architectures and sophisticated cultures, it provides a pleasant living environment amidst snow-capped mountains, beautiful rivers and a heavenly coastline.
Slovenia's economy, the second richest one among Slavic countries, is rather promising for expatriates looking for new career prospects.
Slovenia has a beautiful, and diverse geography, with a coast, mountains, lakes, forests, and picturesque valleys, as well as over 10,000 caves. The continental climate stands for warm and pleasant summer temperatures, and cold, snow-filled winters.
Slovenia is the ideal place for the outdoorsy expats who like to spend their downtime in nature. With around 60% of Slovenia covered in forest, nature is the heart of this country and its people. Slovenia was the first country in the world to be declared a Green Destination, and sustainable tourism and the environment, in general, is something Slovenians take great pride in.
Ljubljana, the capital city, was named the European Green Capital for 2016, and calls itself the 'city with the green soul'. It is, therefore, no surprise that Ljubljana is very cycle friendly, with bike paths and cycling tours on offer. Locals, expats, and tourists can be found wandering in the late night market on Friday, picnicking in parks on sunny afternoons, and in outdoor libraries.
As with most EU countries, the services and finance sectors are the most common industries, but jobs in agriculture are also to be found. Although they may be on the lower end of the pay scale, traditional trades such as fishing and forestry prevail. Also, there is a steady increase in the organic farming industry, which may just make Slovenia the ultimate in any expat's dream to live in an eco-friendly country.
Formalities
Find out more on visas, passports and entry requirements to travel to Slovenia.
Visas
All you need to know on work visas, work permits, working holiday visas and residence permits to live and work in Slovenia.
Work
Dive into the Slovenia labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Slovenia.
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Slovenia. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Slovenia.
Health care
Understanding the healthcare system in Slovenia: public and private health system, health insurance...
Bank
Navigate the banking system in Slovenia: how to choose a bank and open a bank account.
Tax
All you need to know about income tax, the tax system and filing your taxes as an expat in Slovenia.
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Slovenia.
Driving
Essential information on driving requirements in Slovenia, driver's license exchange and international permits.
Removal
Moving to Slovenia? Find useful information and tips to organize your move.
Communications
Internet and phone providers, plans, and everything you need to stay connected in Slovenia.
Phones and internet in Slovenia
Slovenia is a modern country and is well-connected to the rest of the world through mobile and internet access. Internet connectivity is easy to ...
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Slovenia.
Everyday life
Eager to discover what life in Slovenia looks like? Here's a taste.
Articles from the magazine
Isabel in Dolenjska: "Everybody here in Slovenia loves hiking and the outdoors"
Isabel comes from Mexico. She moved to Slovenia two years ago to be with the man of her life, a Slovenian. Both now live in a small town in the Dolenska Region.
Stricter immigration policies for foreign workers and students in Canada
Continuing with the restrictive immigration policy initiated in 2024, Canada has introduced several new measures in 2025, including the suspension of sponsorship application processes, delays in pathways to permanent residency, and restrictions on work permit eligibility for expatriate spouses. The most recent regulation now allows for the cancellation of work permits and student visas.
How to adapt your professional skills in a new country
Moving abroad is frequently seen as a career boost, but it's important to recognize that skills and qualifications might not always transfer seamlessly across borders. Challenges such as language barriers, changes in status and salary, and unrecognized degrees can lead to a diminished professional identity. How can you safeguard your career value when relocating internationally?
Essential non-academic questions to consider before studying abroad
Studying abroad isn't just about earning a degree or enjoying campus life. You will be immersed in a new culture, your ability to work or even travel will be curtailed by immigration laws, and you will be paying for groceries in another currency. These non-academic factors can shape your study-abroad experience, for better or worse. What important questions should you ask yourself before accepting an offer to study abroad?
UK implements ETA requirement for Europeans from April 2025
Announced several months ago, the paid visa will take effect from April 2, 2025. Here's what you need to know.
How working abroad can kickstart your career before you're 30
NEETs, short for “Not in Education, Employment, or Training,” refer to young people under 30 who are neither studying nor working. Many may feel trapped in a cycle they cannot escape, especially if they lack the skills and experience needed to break into their country's workforce. A stint abroad could provide the right opportunity to break free from this stagnation.
New US Gold Card and H-1B visa changes: What you need to know
The US is overhauling its immigration policies by introducing the Gold Card for affluent foreigners and suspending EB-4 visas. This new strategy includes both a pathway to citizenship for wealthy immigrants and tighter restrictions on existing visa categories.
UAE's new visa programs: Blue Visa and Golden Visa for global talent
To further broaden its expatriate community, the United Arab Emirates has introduced new categories of visas. Building on the success of existing visas for educators, digital nomads, and athletes, the UAE is now extending special invitations to green energy leaders and influencers, strengthening its position as a hub of international talent.
