If you'd like to make a life in a small European country that nevertheless has a rich history, impressive mountain scenery and beautiful architecture to offer, then Slovenia is the right destination. Moving to Slovenia is certainly an exciting venture. In the following lines, you will learn how to approach it and what are the most important aspects to consider before packing your bags.
Should you learn a new language when moving to Slovenia?
We suspect that if you're an adventurous person and you've lived in new countries many times, you'll know the pleasant feeling of excitement and anticipation that moving brings. However, it can also be stressful for the less experienced and those just considering this big move. Language is one of the first barriers we encounter when it comes to migrating to a foreign country.
In Slovenia, a large part of the local population speaks English. Quite naturally, it is more widespread among young people. German is spoken in the eastern parts of the country and Italian in the coastal region. There are also minorities using Hungarian. However, if you are planning a permanent move to Slovenia and aim to really get to know the local culture, we advise you to consider learning Slovenian.
It is the country's official language, native to 91% of the population. It belongs to the group of South Slavic languages and its origins date back to 1,300 years ago. It is spoken by only 2.5 million people. Speaking it can become your key advantage on the job market. Free language courses are available online to help your integration even before you actually arrive in the country. A great way to build friendships is by learning Slovenian on the spot after your move, in courses organised by the local community.
What about your new home when migrating to Slovenia?
Feeling truly welcome in a foreign country is often difficult and it takes time. You can get used to your new environment more easily by making yourself comfortable. And what better way to do that than by finding a suitable home?
Rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment in Slovenia range between 200 and 800 euros per month, depending on the condition of the apartment, its size and the area in which it is located. Among the useful steps you can take when choosing a home is to get to know the residential areas in your chosen city beforehand. Research their distance from your workplace as well as the services that are available nearby. Another useful practice is researching lists of rental housing. These are available online - on dedicated websites. Usually, when searching for a new home online, you need to specify the period you would like to rent it for.
When choosing a home, you can also trust a local broker to save you time by introducing you to the specifics of the country. It is also possible to contact the property owner directly. Last, but not least, be wary of whether you are renting a self-contained home or one with shared accommodation. A rental contract in Slovenia can be either fixed or floating. When signing it, you should present proof of identity.
If you plan to buy a family house after moving to Slovenia, prices range from 50 000 to over a million euros. Again, they depend on the condition of the home, its square footage and its location. Buying a home in the suburbs is an excellent chance to enjoy the stunning Slovenian countryside.
What are the most promising industries to work in after moving to Slovenia?
A profession that guarantees success, personal satisfaction, high income or intellectual benefits is certainly among the arguments that would support any expat's decision to move to a foreign country. More and more companies in Slovenia are encouraging the hiring of immigrants, and among the most sought-after professionals are doctors, teachers and lawyers. The average gross monthly income is around €2 160.
Gross income by sector in Slovenia for November 2022 amounts to:
- EUR 3 673 in finance and insurance
- EUR 2 597 in the field of scientific and technical activities
- EUR 2 348 in the health sector
- EUR 2 308 in the manufacturing sector
- EUR 2 060 in education
The working week in the country is 40 hours long, usually over five days (Monday to Friday), with fixed working hours. The minimum working week is 36 hours. The working day starts between 7 and 9 am. The lunch break is 30 minutes. Employees are entitled to 4 weeks of paid leave and 170 hours of overtime per year. The country is becoming more liberal, introducing the possibility of flexible working hours for mothers and the right to study leave. Immigrants and workers in the country have health rights equivalent to those of local employees.
What to consider in case you are relocating to Slovenia with kids?
Now that we have talked about the issue of career growth, we should turn our attention to your personal sphere, which is largely connected to your family. The decision to move with your children requires responsibility, as it would change not only your life but also theirs.
In case of moving to Slovenia with a child over the age of 6, enrolling them in a local school is grounds for issuing a residence permit. If both parents agree, the child's migration can take place immediately. The issue of a residence permit for children under 6 years of age is considered on an individual basis. If both parents hold a permit, the process is usually simplified.
The education system in Slovenia is divided into three levels, with public and private educational institutions. The country also offers many activities to keep children entertained during their free time. These include outdoor sports, visits to water parks or attractions set up in nature. The natural wealth would surely spark the curiosity of children, allowing you to enjoy exciting family weekends.
What are the main requirements when moving to Slovenia with pets?
Pets can be just as demanding as children. When it comes to moving with animals, careful knowledge of Slovenia's legal requirements could save you the potential hassle and extra commitment. Here's what to bear in mind regarding:
The pet's documents: within 5 days of travel, a licensed vet must issue the animal with an EU non-commercial entry certificate for Slovenia.
Required vaccines: The pet must be vaccinated against rabies and tested at least 30 days after vaccination. Entry into Slovenia should be made after satisfactory results have been obtained and within 3 months of testing.
The arrival of pets into the country is possible via Ljubljana, Maribor or Portorož airports. The animal should enter Slovenia directly or by transit from another EU Member State.
Breeds banned in Slovenia: There are no records of breeds of animals banned in Slovenia.
The attitude of locals towards animals: Slovenia is considered the most dog-friendly country, with half of the country's hotels actually offering accommodation for pets.
What to expect as a driver after moving to Slovenia?
The country's road network is well developed, with a quality score of 4.9 on a 7-point scale as of 2019. You can use a driving licence issued outside Slovenia for 1 year after moving. It is recognised as valid in cases where you meet the condition of habitual residence in the country (residence for at least 185 days per year on the basis of professional or personal ties, excluding study in a foreign country) and you have registered your residence legally on the basis of a residence permit. There is no time limit on the validity of driving licences issued in EU Member States, Liechtenstein, Norway and Iceland.
After moving to Slovenia, you are entitled to exchange your licence for a Slovenian one, and the conditions of that are having a permanent address, meeting the driving requirements and passing a practical test. Those coming from EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, San Marino, the United Kingdom, Gibraltar, Switzerland, etc. do not have to pass a practical test.
The renewal of a licence is done by submitting an application. You need to present:
- current driving licence
- a medical certificate
- a passport-size photograph
- proof of payment of the administrative fee and driving licence form
- proof of normal residence (or training of more than 6 months) in the country which issued your licence
What healthcare rights do you have as an expat in Slovenia?
According to the most recent data (2018) of the Euro Health Consumer Index, ranking European countries on the quality of healthcare, Slovenia ranks 21st. The index takes into account aspects such as waiting times for healthcare services, quality of medical outcomes, etc.
Health insurance in the country is divided into compulsory and optional. Compulsory insurance is provided by the Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia. It covers only part of the health-related risks. Foreigners who are not covered by the local health insurance system are entitled to emergency health care.
What can Slovenian nature offer?
The country’s climate is continental Mediterranean. Average temperatures in coastal areas are 0 °C in January and 20 °C in July. Slovenia is characterised by a cold northern bora wind. In the central parts, the climate is described as continental, while in the north-west the influence of the Alps is felt. In winter, the temperature in the mountainous areas of the country is low at around 0.5 °C and snowfall is common.
Moving to Slovenia would be particularly exciting for nature lovers. The country is famous as the home of the exotic animal Proteus (olm), also called the 'baby dragon'. There are nearly 8,000 caves, 20 of which are open to the public. Apart from the underground journey, you can also enjoy a number of impressive sights including:
- Ljubljana's Old Town
- The Dragon Bridge
- Nicholas Cathedral
- Predjama Castle
- Bled Island
- Triglav National Park
A great way to make the most of your free time in Slovenia is by skiing at one of the country's 50 winter resorts or visiting the carnival in the town of Ptuj.
Slovenia will surprise you with its artistry and genuine beauty. Careful planning of every aspect of your move to the Central European country would ensure you no problems and peace of mind. And to do it successfully, don't hesitate to contact us - the Movega Removals team. Thanks to our years of experience, we will advise and assist you in the best way. Contact us via our contact form or chatbot.
