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.
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What are your career options after studying abroad?
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Saudi Arabia cracks down on expat sponsorship violations
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has reiterated that violations of residency rules—such as overstaying a visa—affect not only expatriates but also their sponsors. Sponsors may face serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and even deportation if they are foreign nationals.
UAE: Sharjah opens real estate to expats
Sharjah has unveiled a bold new opportunity for foreign investment: a 100-year lease for non-Arab expatriates. This long-term lease scheme is part of the AI Saja'a Industrial Land project, launched by ASAS Real Estate, the property development arm of Sharjah Islamic Bank.
Working in Czechia: What the labor code reform means for you
A sweeping overhaul of the Czech Labor Code—known as the Flexible Work Amendment—is set to reshape how employees are hired, paid, and dismissed. Taking effect in June 2025, the reform targets both local and international workers. If you've recently relocated for work or are planning a move to Czechia, here's what you need to know.
How to cope with illness and isolation far from home
Receiving a medical diagnosis is never easy—especially when you're living abroad. Now, you're not only managing your health but also facing the emotional and practical challenge of rethinking life as an expat. How do you adjust your daily routine when loneliness becomes part of your new reality? What support systems can help you avoid navigating illness entirely on your own?
