How long must my sponsor have lived in Slovenia first?

As a rule the sponsor needs permanent residence or a temporary permit valid for at least one year. Holders of an EU Blue Card, research permit or study permit can reunite with family immediately.

Is a Slovenian language test required?

Adult family members generally must show basic Slovenian (A1) knowledge, but family members of Blue Card, research and higher-education permit holders are exempt.

How long is the family permit valid?

It is issued for the same period as the sponsor's permit — often 12 months initially, with renewals of up to two years.

Long-stay visas (Type D)

Slovenian Temporary Residence Permit for Family Reunification

A temporary residence permit allowing close family members of a Slovenian resident or citizen to join them and live together in Slovenia.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Slovenia government website before you apply.

On this page

Who it's for
Requirements
What you can do
How to apply
Documents
Frequently asked questions

Issued by: Administrative unit (upravna enota)
Sponsor condition: Usually permanent residence, or a temporary permit valid at least 1 year; Immediate reunification for Blue Card, researcher and study permit holders
Duration: Same as the sponsor's permit; renewals up to 2 years at a time
Eligible members: Spouse/registered partner, minor children, and other qualifying dependants

Who it's for

Close family members — spouse or registered partner, minor unmarried children, and other qualifying dependent relatives — of a Slovenian citizen or of a third-country national lawfully resident in Slovenia.

Requirements

Valid passport of the family member
Proof of the family relationship (marriage/birth certificates, etc.)
Sponsor holds qualifying residence (permanent, or temporary valid ≥1 year), unless an immediate-reunification category applies
Adequate health insurance
Sufficient means of subsistence for the family
Proof of appropriate accommodation
No grounds for refusal

What you can do

Reside in Slovenia with the sponsoring family member
Obtain access to the labour market under the applicable rules (via a labour-market access card where required)
Renew the permit alongside the sponsor's
Progress towards permanent residence over time

How to apply

The application is generally lodged at the administrative unit in Slovenia (the sponsor may file it) or at a Slovenian diplomatic mission abroad. Adult family members of most sponsors must meet a basic Slovenian language (A1) requirement, with exemptions for family of Blue Card, research and study permit holders.

Submit proof of relationship, insurance, funds and accommodation. On approval, the family member collects a residence card and registers residence.

Documents

Completed application form and photograph
Valid passport
Proof of family relationship (certificates)
Evidence of the sponsor's residence status
Proof of health insurance
Proof of sufficient funds and accommodation

Frequently asked questions

As a rule the sponsor needs permanent residence or a temporary permit valid for at least one year. Holders of an EU Blue Card, research permit or study permit can reunite with family immediately.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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