1. What is a Retirement Visa in Slovenia?

A retirement visa in Slovenia is a type of long-term visa that allows non-EU citizens to retire in Slovenia. It is issued for the purpose of living in the country during retirement and does not allow the holder to work or study.

2. Who is eligible for a Retirement Visa?
To be eligible for a retirement visa in Slovenia, you must meet the following criteria:

– Be over 60 years old
– Have stable and regular income (such as a pension or savings) of at least €24,000 per year
– Have health insurance coverage for Slovenia
– Have a valid passport with at least two blank pages
– Provide proof of accommodation in Slovenia (rental contract or ownership deed)
– Pass a medical examination to prove you are not suffering from any contagious diseases

3. How do I apply for a Retirement Visa in Slovenia?
To apply for a retirement visa in Slovenia, you will need to submit your application at the Slovenian embassy or consulate in your home country. The application must include:

– Completed and signed application form
– Pasaporte válido con al menos dos páginas en blanco.
– Two recent biometric photos
– Proof of stable and regular income (such as bank statements, pension documents, etc.)
– Proof of valid health insurance coverage for Slovenia
– Proof of accommodation in Slovenia (rental contract or ownership deed)
– Medical certificate confirming you have no contagious diseases

It is recommended to submit your application at least 30 days before your intended date of travel. Processing time can take up to 15 days.

4. What are the fees associated with applying for a Retirement Visa?
The fees associated with applying for a retirement visa in Slovenia vary depending on your nationality and length of stay. As an example, as of 2021, the fee for US citizens is €63 and €35 for citizens of Canada, while citizens from other countries may have different fees.

5. How long is a Retirement Visa valid for?
A retirement visa in Slovenia is valid for up to one year and can be extended for another two years, as long as the holder continues to meet the eligibility criteria. After five consecutive years of living in Slovenia, you can apply for permanent residence.

6. Can I work or study with a Retirement Visa?
No, a retirement visa does not allow you to work or study in Slovenia. If you wish to do so, you will need to apply for a different type of visa.

7. Can I bring my spouse and dependents with me under a Retirement Visa?
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can accompany you under your retirement visa, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria and are included in your application. They will also need to provide proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates).

8. What are the benefits of having a Retirement Visa in Slovenia?
Some benefits of having a retirement visa in Slovenia include:

– The ability to live comfortably in a beautiful country known for its natural scenery.
– Access to quality healthcare and education.
– Easy travel within Europe, as Slovenia is part of the Schengen Area.
– A relatively low cost of living compared to other European countries.
– The opportunity to potentially gain permanent residency after five consecutive years of living in Slovenia.

9. Are there any restrictions on how long I can stay outside of Slovenia with a Retirement Visa?
There are no specific restrictions on how long you can stay outside of Slovenia with a retirement visa. However, if you plan on being out of the country for an extended period (over six months), it is recommended to inform the Slovenian authorities beforehand.

10. Can I apply for citizenship with a Retirement Visa?
No, having a retirement visa does not make you eligible for Slovenian citizenship by default. You would need to meet all requirements and go through the naturalization process like any other foreigner who wishes to become a citizen of Slovenia.

2. Who is eligible for a Retirement Visa in Slovenia?

To be eligible for a Retirement Visa in Slovenia, you must:

1. Be at least 45 years old

2. Have a stable and regular source of income, such as a pension or personal funds, that is sufficient to support yourself during your retirement in Slovenia.

3. Have proof of valid health insurance covering your stay in Slovenia.

4. Have confirmation of accommodations in Slovenia, such as property ownership, rental agreement, or a letter from a Slovenian resident inviting you to stay with them.

5. Provide documents demonstrating your ties to your home country and intention to return after the validity of the visa expires (e.g. property ownership, family members living in your home country).

6. Meet other requirements set by the Slovenian Consulate/Embassy in your home country, including submitting an application and paying any necessary fees.

7. Pass any required medical examinations or criminal background checks.

Note: These eligibility requirements may vary depending on the specific circumstances and policies at the time of application. It is best to check with the Slovenian Embassy/Consulate for the most up-to-date information and specific requirements.

3. How long does the Retirement Visa last?

The Retirement Visa, also known as the Non-Immigrant O-A Visa, is initially granted for 1 year and can be renewed annually in Thailand. The visa holder must report to Thai immigration every 90 days and provide proof of income or funds in a Thai bank account to renew the visa. The maximum duration of stay on a Retirement Visa is 10 years.

4. Can I work in Slovenia with a Retirement Visa?

The Retirement Visa (also known as the Long Stay Visa for Pensioners) in Slovenia is intended for non-EU citizens who are retired and wish to reside in Slovenia for a period longer than 3 months. With this visa, you are allowed to stay in Slovenia for up to 1 year, after which you may apply for an extension.

However, according to the Slovenian Employment of Aliens Act, non-EU citizens with a Retirement Visa are not allowed to work in Slovenia. This visa is intended solely for individuals who have retired and do not plan on engaging in any employment while residing in Slovenia.

If you wish to work in Slovenia, you will need to acquire a different type of visa or permit suitable for your situation and job position. You can consult the Slovenian Employment Service or contact the Slovenian Embassy or Consulate in your home country for more information on work visas and permits.

5. Do I need to have a retirement income to qualify for a Retirement Visa?

Yes, one of the requirements for a Retirement Visa is to show proof of a retirement income. This can be in the form of a pension or investments that will provide you with enough income to support yourself while living in Thailand. The minimum required amount varies depending on your age and nationality, but it is generally around 65,000 baht per month. You may also need to show proof of a bank account with sufficient funds to cover any unforeseen expenses.

6. Is there an age requirement for the Retirement Visa?

The age requirement for the Retirement Visa varies depending on the country where the visa is applied for. In Thailand, for example, applicants must be at least 50 years old to be eligible for a Retirement Visa. In Colombia, there is no specific age requirement but applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their retirement years. It is important to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you wish to retire in to determine their specific age requirements.

7. Can I renew my Retirement Visa when it expires?

Yes, you can renew your retirement visa when it expires. You will need to follow the same application process and meet the same requirements as you did for your initial visa application. You may also be required to provide updated documentation and proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your extended stay in the country. It is recommended that you begin the renewal process at least 2-3 months before your current visa expires to allow for processing time.

8. Do I need to have health insurance for the duration of my retirement stay in Slovenia?

It is recommended that you have health insurance for the duration of your retirement stay in Slovenia. While it is not a legal requirement, having health insurance will help cover any unexpected medical expenses during your stay and give you peace of mind. The Slovenian healthcare system is high quality but can be expensive for those without insurance.

9. Are there any language requirements for the Retirement Visa?

Due to the limited length of stay, there are no language requirements for the Retirement Visa. However, it is recommended to have a basic understanding of Thai or have a trusted translator available for practical purposes while living in Thailand.

10. What are the financial requirements for obtaining a Retirement Visa in Slovenia?

The primary financial requirement for obtaining a Retirement Visa in Slovenia is to have sufficient income to support yourself during your stay. This typically means showing proof of a regular pension or other steady source of income.

Additionally, applicants may need to provide evidence of health insurance coverage and a bank statement showing sufficient funds to cover living expenses.

Exact financial requirements may vary depending on your specific situation and the discretion of the Slovenian embassy or consulate processing your application. We recommend consulting with the diplomatic mission for more specific information.

11. How long does it take to process a Retirement Visa application?

The processing time for a Retirement Visa application can vary, but it typically takes anywhere from 2-4 weeks. The exact timeframe will depend on the specific requirements and processing times of the country you are applying to. Additionally, if there are any issues or discrepancies with your application, it may take longer to process.

12. Can I bring my spouse or dependents with me on a Retirement Visa?

Yes, you can bring your spouse and dependents with you on a Retirement Visa. They will also need to apply for their own visa and meet the necessary requirements.

13. Do I need to have a residence lined up before applying for a Retirement Visa?

It is not necessary to have a residence lined up before applying for a Retirement Visa. However, applicants may need to provide proof of accommodation, such as a rental agreement or hotel booking, as part of their visa application. It is recommended to have a plan in place for accommodation before arriving in the country.

14. Can I travel outside of Slovenia with a Retirement Visa?

No, a Retirement Visa issued by Slovenia is only valid for travel within the country and cannot be used to travel outside of its borders. If you wish to travel to other countries, you will need to obtain the appropriate visa or permit for that specific country.

15. Is there a minimum amount of time I must spend in Slovenia each year on the Retirement Visa?

Yes, retirees must spend at least 183 days (6 months) per year in Slovenia in order to maintain their retirement visa status.

16. How much does it cost to apply for and obtain a Retirement Visa in Slovenia?

The cost of a Retirement Visa in Slovenia may vary based on individual circumstances, such as nationality and age. However, as a general guideline, the application fee for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) for retirees is 45 EUR, and the annual renewal fee is 25 EUR. Additional fees may apply for document translation and notary services. It’s best to consult with your nearest Slovenian embassy or consulate for specific pricing information.

17. Is there an option to convert from a tourist visa to a Retirement Visa while in Slovenia?

It is not possible to convert from a tourist visa to a Retirement Visa while in Slovenia. The Retirement Visa application must be made from the applicant’s home country or country of permanent residence.

18. Can I purchase property or open a bank account with the intention of applying for a retirement visa later on?

Yes, you can purchase property or open a bank account with the intention of applying for a retirement visa later on. However, it is important to note that these actions alone do not guarantee approval for a retirement visa. There are specific requirements and procedures that must be met in order to successfully apply for and obtain a retirement visa in Thailand. It is recommended that you consult with an immigration lawyer or seek assistance from the Thai Embassy in your home country for more information on the application process and requirements.

19. Are there any restrictions or limitations on activities I can engage in while on the Retirement Visa?

There may be restrictions or limitations on specific activities you can engage in while on the Retirement Visa, depending on the specific country’s regulations. For example, some countries may restrict certain types of employment or volunteering while on a Retirement Visa. It is important to thoroughly research and understand the restrictions and limitations of the Retirement Visa in your chosen country before making plans or engaging in any activities.

20 .What happens if my circumstances change and I no longer qualify for the Retirement Visa during my stay in Slovenia?

If your circumstances change and you no longer qualify for the Retirement Visa during your stay in Slovenia, you must notify the Slovenian authorities immediately. Depending on the reason for your disqualification, you may be required to leave Slovenia and may not be allowed to re-enter the country on a Retirement Visa. You may also face penalties or fines for not complying with the visa requirements. It is important to always keep your visa status up-to-date and to comply with all visa requirements during your stay in Slovenia.