EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia
www.euraxess.sk http://ec.europa.eu/euraxess
EN_kniha_0811_obalka.indd 1 2. 9. 2011 19:22:39 Výtažková azurováVýtažková purpurováVýtažková žlutáVýtažková černá 2 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 3
1. About EURAXESS...... 4 3.5.7 UNESCO Programmes...... 54 1.1 National Portal EURAXESS SLOVAKIA...... 5 3.5.8 CEEPUS – Central European Exchange Program This publication was produced within the project EURAXESS Services Centres for University Studies...... 55 funded by the European Commission and by the Ministry of Education, Science, 2. About Slovakia...... 8 3.5.9 International Visegrad Fund ...... 56 Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic. 2.1 Profile...... 8 4. Formalities – how to be ready 2.2 Geography...... 9 for the national authorities...... 58 This publication reflects the views of the authors only, and the funding organisations 2.3 History...... 10 4.1 Entry & stay permits...... 58 cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information 2.4 Political system and state bodies ...... 12 4.1.1 EU/EEA/Swiss nationals...... 58 contained therein. 2.5 Economy...... 13 4.1.2 Third country nationals...... 58 2.6 Significant scientists born in Slovakia ...... 14 4.2 Work permit...... 68 4.2.1 EU/EEA/Swiss nationals...... 68 3. Research in Slovakia ...... 18 4.2.2 Third country nationals (aliens) – general 3.1 Legislative framework of research conditions...... 69 and development in Slovakia ...... 18 4.3 Employment...... 72 3.2 Research institutions ...... 20 4.4 Social security & health insurance ...... 75 3.2.1 Higher education sector...... 20 4.4.1 Provision of social security for migrant 3.2.2 State research and development sector. . . . .22 workers...... 75 3.2.3 Private research and development sector. . . .25 4.4.2 System of social security in Slovakia 3.2.4 Non‑profit sector of research & development. . 27 (excluding health insurance)...... 77 3.3 R&D funding on national level...... 27 4.4.3 Health insurance...... 86 3.3.1 State research funding agencies...... 27 4.4.4 Social security (including health insurance) 3.3.2 State programmes for research coordination within EU...... 90 & development support...... 29 4.5 Taxation ...... 91 3.3.3 EU structural funds...... 29 4.5.1 Direct taxes...... 92 3.3.4 The National Scholarship Programme 4.5.2 Indirect taxes...... 94 of the Slovak Republic...... 30 4.6 Recognition of diplomas...... 94 3.3.5 Scholarships of the Government of the Slovak 4.7 Import of goods...... 96 Republic awarded for the entire doctoral study within Official Development Assistance...... 31 5. Daily life in Slovakia...... 98 3.3.6 Scholarships of the Ministry of Education, 5.1 Accommodation and housing ...... 98 Science, Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic...... 32 5.2 Banks and currency...... 99 3.3.7 Modernization Program Slovakia 21 5.3 Communications and post offices...... 100 – Scholarships of the Ministry of Education, 5.4 Cuisine...... 101 Science, Research and Sport of the Slovak 5.5 Culture and media...... 103 Republic...... 34 5.6 Day care for children...... 106 3.4 Funding for bilateral cooperation...... 34 5.7 Education system...... 106 3.4.1 Bilateral scientific and technological cooperation 5.7.1 School education...... 106 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA based on intergovernmental agreements. . . .34 5.7.2 Higher education ...... 111 The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 3.4.2 Bilateral intergovernmental agreements 5.8 Electrical appliances and computers...... 113 on educational, research and cultural cooperation. . 36 3.4.3 Action Austria – Slovakia, Cooperation 5.9 Hiking and tourism...... 114 Published by: in Science and Education...... 43 5.10 Language...... 118 SAIA, n. o. 3.4.4 Fulbright Programs for U. S. citizens...... 43 5.11 Libraries...... 119 Námestie slobody 23 3.5 Funding by multilateral/international programmes 5.12 Living costs...... 119 812 20 Bratislava 1, Slovak Republic or international organisations...... 44 5.13 Medical care...... 120 3.5.1 7th Framework Programme of the European 5.14 Other services...... 121 Community for Research, Technological 5.15 Public holidays...... 121 Prepared by: Development (FP7)...... 44 5.16 Regional and local administration...... 122 3.5.2 Programmes for cooperation in education Eva Balažovičová, Katarína Košťálová 5.17 Religion...... 122 and SAIA, n. o. staff and vocational training funded from EU sources. .46 3.5.3 European Science Foundation...... 50 5.18 Shopping ...... 123 3.5.4 COST – European Cooperation in Science 5.19 Sport...... 123 Graphic design and press: and Technology...... 51 5.20 Transport ...... 124 MIKO‑GRAF, s. r. o., Bratislava 3.5.5 EUREKA...... 52 5.21 Veterinary care...... 129 3.5.6 NATO – Science for Peace and Security Programme...... 53 6. Glossary...... 130 © SAIA, n. o., 2011
ISBN 978–80–89521–06–7 4 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 5
of researchers, research institutions and alerts, and e‑newsletter help in this regard, 1. About EURAXESS funding providers. Their aim is to ensure while networking events for members are equitable treatment of all researchers organised regularly. EURAXESS Furthermore, the website is complemented in Europe and to increase transparency – Researchers by the national EURAXESS portals of all in their selection and recruitment. The two in Motion partner countries which contain a wealth documents also address the right to social 1.1 National Portal (http://ec.europa. of additional information on research security coverage and access to pensions. EURAXESS SLOVAKIA eu/euraxess) is jobs and funding opportunities in their an initiative launched by the European own country. The Slovak national portal To date, more than 260 organisations have European Portal EURAXESS – Researchers EURAXESS Commission, to promote research careers (www.euraxess.sk) is one of them. individually endorsed the principles of the in Motion, is interlinked with the national and facilitate the mobility of researchers Charter & Code, representing more than EURAXESS portals of all partner countries across Europe. EURAXESS comprises EURAXESS Services is a network of 1000 institutions from 30 countries in Europe that contain a wealth of additional
About a variety of services to help researchers find over 200 centres located in 39 European and beyond. A full list of signatories and information about their own country. and secure their research position, no matter countries. These centres assist researchers the complete text of the Charter & Code can where he/she is from. It recognises the and their families when moving to, or living be viewed on the web site. The first version of the Slovak EURAXESS challenges researchers may face in getting in another country. Free and personalised Portal was created in 2004 in cooperation the right position – visas, social services, assistance is offered on the challenges By endorsing the Charter with SAIA, n. o. and the Technical family requirements, language barriers, CV faced by researchers and their families & Code the institutions University of Košice. In 2010, with support visibility to the right target group, working when relocating, such as: join a truly pan‑European of the European Commission, all the terms and conditions, and many more. visas, network of researchers, research national portals – including the Slovak EURAXESS assists with formalities and work permits, institutions and funders, and benefit from one – were completely revamped, in terms helps researchers move between positions accommodation, international visibility on the EURAXESS of design and also structure. and countries more easily. legal issues, Rights website. In addition, the special social security, medical care and taxes, ‘HR Excellence in Research’ logo is Slovak Portal www.euraxess.sk EURAXESS is composed of four specific family support, language courses, etc. awarded by the European Commission to has two separate language versions: initiatives for researchers: research institutions or funders actively English and Slovak. Slovak version is The EURAXESS Services Centres network implementing the Charter & Code. dedicated to Slovak researchers, who EURAXESS Jobs is a stress‑free recruitment comprises a staff of more than 500, ready intend to go abroad, but also to Slovak tool for researchers and research to assist researchers, their employers and EURAXESS Links is a networking tool research organisations that would like to organisations in Europe. For more than five funders free of charge. These Services for European researchers, scientists and welcome a foreign researcher in their team. years, EURAXESS Jobs offers constantly Centres are typically located in universities scholars working outside Europe. It is also The English version of the Portal provides updated information on research in the 27 EU Member States and other an important contact point for researchers information about Slovakia relevant for the job vacancies, funding opportunities participating countries ranging from Iceland intending to move to Europe for a research foreign researchers interested in carrying out and fellowships throughout Europe. to Israel. The EURAXESS Services Centres position. EURAXESS Links was launched their research in Slovakia. The information Researchers can post and edit their CV assist researchers and their families with in the USA in 2005, in Japan in 2008, China here is structured in the following way: on‑line and look for positions and funding every step of their move. They are also in 2009, and since 2010 also includes Jobs, Grants and Fellowships, Services opportunities advertised. Companies an invaluable resource for employers of Singapore and India. – Practical Information, EURAXESS and research organisations can post researchers, as they can assist in the process Rights, and EURAXESS Services Centres job vacancies and search the database of hiring researchers from abroad. The EURAXESS Links keeps researchers in these in Slovakia. for potential candidates to recruit. Any EURAXESS Service Centres are coordinated regions fully informed on EU research employer, be it a research institute, a major by the national bridgehead organisation(s) policies, career opportunities in Europe company, an SME or a university can upload appointed by the relevant national authority. and opportunities for collaboration with EURAXESS Jobs job vacancies. All positions are genuine, colleagues in Europe. EURAXESS Links The section Jobs of the national Portal leads and the service is free of charge both for EURAXESS Rights provides comprehensive provides interactive web services to you to up‑to‑date research job vacancies researchers and for employers. Funding information on the European Charter European researchers working abroad in the whole Europe, provides you the organisations can equally advertise their for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for in order to keep them linked among possibility to post your CV and so enable fellowships and grants for free. the Recruitment of Researchers. The Charter themselves and with Europe. The web the research institutes to approach you & Code set out the rights and obligations forum, researchers’ database, e‑mail in case you fit the profile of their opening. 6 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 7
If you represent a research organisation, gather information related to concrete Services Centres were established in 2004. of Slovak universities and research either public or private, you have the real life situations that occur when moving A restructuring of the Slovak Services institutes. This will ensure a constant flow possibility to publish your vacancy to between countries. These include issues of Centres network is in progress from 2011. of updated information directly to the a targeted audience free of charge and taxation, social security, entry conditions Slovak EURAXESS Services Centres will researcher. choose among the qualified candidates and residence permit, day‑care for children soon be present in each regional SAIA from the whole Europe. or cultural events in a foreign country, etc. office, in the towns of Nitra, Žilina, Banská In the Services Centres you will find Information is clearly organised in thematic Bystrica, Košice, and Prešov. The Bratislava informed staff who work with mobility sections and also includes contact office is the national coordinator of the issues on an everyday basis and who Grants and Fellowships information for responsible institutions. regional offices and also the Services will gladly share their knowledge and EURAXESS Information on funding of research Of course, it is always possible to contact Centres in other partner countries and experience with you. Not only will they mobility and research projects is the closest EURAXESS Services Centre European institutions, as well as national provide you with the information, but, available in the section Grants and that will help you to find the answer you’re authorities. if possible, they will help you with the
About Fellowships. You can find here information looking for. formalities and paperwork and will provide on funding based on the National Gradually, a network of Local Contact you with information about their contacts. Scholarship Programme for the Support Practical information and tips can be also Points will be created in close cooperation Just find the contact details in this section of Mobility of Students, PhD Students, found in this publication; information with the international departments and of the Portal and turn to the closest University Teachers and Researchers related to formalities with national science departments of the rectorates Services Centre. (www.scholarships.sk); information institutions in Chapter 4 (page 58) on funding on the basis of bilateral and information on daily life in Slovakia cooperation published by Slovak Research in Chapter 5 (page 98). and Development Agency (www.apvv.sk); and also information about research Map of Slovakia fellowship programmes offered by EURAXESS Rights international, European and national Good working conditions are crucial research organisations from all over the to the researchers‘ career development. world, and published on the European Definition of the rights and obligations on EURAXESS Jobs Portal. the side of researchers as well as research organisations is offered by the European As the funding opportunities are one of Charter for Researchers and the the most requested topics, overview of the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment possibilities available to foreign researchers of Researchers. who wish to come to Slovakia is provided also in this publication. You can find more In Slovakia, the Charter & Code were information in the Chapter 3 Research endorsed in 2005 by two signatories: Slovak in Slovakia (page 18). Rectors‘ Conference on behalf of Slovak universities and the Presidency of Slovak Academy of Sciences on behalf of its Services – Practical Information institutes. The objective of the EURAXESS initiative is not confined to research funding issues In this section of the EURAXESS Portal only, but goes even further and serves you can find more information on this the needs of researchers in all the aspects important topic. related to mobility from one country to another. It aims to facilitate the mobility in the smoothest way possible and ease EURAXESS Services Centres the burden of red‑tape that is connected in Slovakia to mobility. Therefore, in the section In Slovakia, the national network is Services – Practical Information, we coordinated by SAIA, n. o. The first 8 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 9
Public deficit (2009): 7.9 % GDP. Time 2. About Slovakia Natural resources: Antimony, mercury, iron, copper, lead, zinc, magnesite, limestone, GMT+1; GMT+2 from last Sunday in March 2.1 Profile Government lignite. to last Saturday in October. Type: Parliamentary Agriculture crops: grains, potatoes, poultry, Official name: Slovak Republic democracy. cattle, hogs, sugar, beets, hops, fruit, forest Weather Independence: The Slovak products. Geography The Slovak Republic has a continental Republic was established Breeding: cattle, pigs, poultry, sheep, goats. Area: 48,845 sq. km. climate with 4 seasons (spring, summer,
Slovakia on January 1, 1993 (former Industry: iron and steel, chemicals, autumn, winter). Summers are hot; winters Land boundaries (total): 1,524 km. Czechoslovak Republic established in 1918). electro‑chemical, automobiles, light are cold, cloudy and humid. The average Austria 91 km.; Czech Republic 215 km; Constitution: Approved on September 1, 1992. industry, food processing, back‑office winter daily temperature is –2 °C, but Hungary 677 km; Poland 444 km; About Branches: Executive – President support, engineering, building materials. can plummet to –15 °C. The average daily Ukraine 97 km. (head of state), Prime Minister (head of Major trading partners (2010): temperature in summer is 21 °C, but can Cities: Capital – Bratislava (428,672). government), Cabinet. Legislative – National Imports: Germany – 15.3 %, be as warm as over 30 °C. The coldest Other cities – Košice (236,093), Nitra Council of the Slovak Republic (150 seats). Czech Republic – 10.3 %, Russia – 9.7 %, month is January; the hottest month is (163,540), Prešov (161,782), Žilina (156,361), Judicial‑Supreme Court, Constitutional Court. South Korea – 8.0 %, China – 5.4 %, July. The period from May to July is often Banská Bystrica (111,984). Political parties: Distribution of the Exports: Germany – 19.3 %, considered the best season. Terrain: Landlocked with high mountains 150 parliamentary seats is Direction‑Social Czech Republic – 13.9 %, France – 7.2 %, in the north, low mountains in the centre, Democracy (Smer‑SD) 62 seats; Slovak Poland 7.2 %, Austria – 6.6 % Data concerns Bratislava, the capital hills to the west, Danube (Dunaj) River of the SR (Source BBC Weather). Weather Democratic and Christian Union (SDKU) General information about Slovakia: basin in the south. in northern and mountainous regions could 27 seats; Freedom and Solidarity (SaS) www.mzv.sk, www.slovakia.travel Elevation: Lowest point – Bodrog River 94 m. 22 seats; Christian‑Democratic Movement be much colder. Highest point – Gerlachovský štít (Peak) (KDH) 15 seats; Bridge (Most‑Hid) 14 seats; 2,655 m. Slovak National Party (SNS) 9 seats. Other 2.2 Geography During the winters the sun rises parties outside the Parliament include approximately at 7:30 and sets about 16:00. Hungarian Coalition Party (SMK); People’s The Slovak Republic is situated in Central During the summer, sunrise is before 5:00 People Party – Movement for a Democratic Europe, sharing borders with Austria, and sunset is about 21:00. Nationality: Slovak(s) – noun and adjective. Slovakia (LS‑HZDS); Party of the the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Ukraine. Mountains, lowlands, valleys, Population: Democratic Left (SDL). Average Average 5,424,925 (2009), out of it 51.4 % Wet Days lakes, cave formations, forests and Month Temperature Precipitation women. Suffrage: Universal at 18 years. (+ 0.25 mm) meadows provide many examples (°C) (mm) Ethnic groups: Slovaks 85.8 %, Administrative divisions: Eight self‑governing of Slovakia’s year‑round natural beauty. Hungarians 9.7 %, Roma 1.7 %, regions, 79 districts. The Carpathian Arc, a range of mountains min. max. Czechs 0.8 %, Ruthenians 0.4 %, Membership in international groupings/ stretching across the North, takes up Jan –3 2 43 12 Ukrainians 0.2 %, other 1.4 %. Unofficial organisations: EU (May 2004), NATO almost a half of the country. The South Feb –2 3 47 12 estimates place the Roma population (March 2004), UN (January 1993), OECD, Council and East of the country lie in the lowlands, March 1 9 42 10 between 6 % – 10 %. of Europe, OSCE, WHO, INTERPOL etc. an important agricultural area in Slovakia. April 6 16 42 11 Religions: Roman Catholic 69 %, The highest point: Gerlachovský štít (Peak) May 11 21 61 11 Protestant 9 %, Greek Catholic 4 %, Economy in High Tatras 2,655 m above sea level. Orthodox 0.9 %, other 0.6 %, unknown June 14 24 64 11 Currency: euro (since 1 January 2009). The lowest point: River Bodrog 94 m 3.5 %, 13 % report no affiliation. July 16 26 73 11 GDP (2010): 65.9 bn €. above sea level. Languages: Slovak (official), Hungarian, Aug 15 26 69 10 GDP growth rate (2010): 4.1 %. Maximum length: 428 km Ruthenian, Romany, and Ukrainian. Sept 12 22 40 8 Nominal GDP per capita (2010): 72 % of EU‑27. (Záhorská Ves [W] – Nová Sedlica [E]) Health: Life expectancy (2006) – 78.2 yrs. Oct 7 15 54 11 Unemployment (2010): 13.5 %. Maximum breadth: 195 km females; 70.4 yrs. males. (Štúrovo [S] – Skalité [N]) Nov 3 8 55 13 Consumer price inflation (2009): 1.6 %. The longest river: River Váh (378 km) Dec 0 4 59 14 10 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 11
2.3 History Mojmír, the Duke of Moravia and had to the defeat and the killing of King Louis II The Slovak national consciousness was flee. Duke Mojmír I established a united of the Jagello dynasty by the Turks at the rekindled in the 18th and 19th centuries Stone Age state called Great Moravia (830 – 908). battle near Mohács in 1526. The battle and a Slovak civil society began to emerge. His successor, Rastislav, invited the of Mohács started the period of Turkish The first written form of the Slovak The first recorded missionaries Sts. Cyril and Methodius occupation of the region including language was codified in 1847, and the tribes to settle to Great Moravia. They established an significant part of the territory of the first political programme was proclaimed on the territory of independent church province, developed Hungarian Empire. The territory of present in 1848. In 1861 the Memorandum of the modern Slovakia the first Slavic alphabet (Glagol) using day Slovakia became the administrative Slovak Nation was published and in 1863 were Celtic (from Greek symbols, and used it to translate the and economic centre of the rest of the Matica slovenská (The Slovak Foundation) Slovakia around 450 B. C.), bible into vernacular. The most important Hungarian Empire and Bratislava was the was established to promote the Slovak whose culture ruler of Great Moravia was Svätopluk who coronation site of many Hungarian kings nation. In 1893 the Slovak Museum represented the pinnacle of barbarian fought with the East Frankish Empire. Great from 1563 to 1830 (including Maria Theresa Society was established. The late 19th and
About civilisation. The remains of Celtic oppida Moravia disintegrated after its invasion from the Habsburg family in 1741). early 20th centuries were marked by the (elevated, fortified settlements) can be by Magyar tribes and the successes of the struggle against Hungarian nationalist found, for example in Bratislava, Devín, East Frankish Empire. Sites dating back to In 1635, Peter Pazmany established tendencies, culminating in the creation and on Havránok Hill near the Liptovská the time of Great Moravia may be found at Trnava University (which was relocated of the Czechoslovak Republic. Mara reservoir. Devín, Nitra, and Ducové, amongst others. to Budapest in 1777). The Jesuits founded Košice University in 1657. The Celts were forced out by the Germanic The Magyar tribes established a Hungarian Present times tribes of Marcomans which fought with Empire in the Danube area and the The numerous anti‑Habsburg uprisings by the Roman Emperors Marcus Aurelius territory of present‑day Slovakia was Hungarian nobility were curtailed by the Czechoslovakia and Commodus (166 – 180 A. D.). Remains absorbed around 1000 A. D. The history 1711 Peace of Azatmar. However, it did not Czechoslovakia was established with of the Limes Romanus – the fortifications of Slovakia was thus interwoven with that stop unrest amongst its subjects, a fact the end of World War I and the dissolution on the Roman Empire’s northern border of the Hungarian state until 1918. that was reflected of the Austro‑Hungarian Monarchy – are preserved in Slovakia (for example in the high levels in 1918. The period of prosperity of the at Rusovce, Trenčín, and Iža). The German The development of the Hungarian Empire of emigration and newly established republic followed until tribes were driven out by Huns led by Attila. was interrupted by the Tatar invasion banditry. At this the world’s economic crisis and the later (1240 – 1242). After the Tatars left, Belo IV time the legend advent of the Nazism. In 1939, Slovakia Tribes of Western Slavs arrived on this invited Saxons to come and live in Hungary, was born of the was de iure proclaimed autonomous. territory at the end of the 5th and beginning which significantly strengthened urban most famous of Its independence, however, was greatly of the 6th centuries. Soon they had to defend civilisation. After the male line of the Slovak outlaws, limited by its strong economic, military themselves against nomadic Avars and this Árpád dynasty died out in 1301, Charles who was stealing and political dependence on Germany. activity led to the creation of a tribal union Robert of Anjou became king in 1308 and from the rich to The Slovak National Uprising during World under the rule of the Frankish merchant established the Anjou dynasty, which was give to the poor, War II, in 1944, was a clear indication of the Samo, known as “Samo’s Empire” followed by the Jagello dynasty in 1440. – the legend country’s opposition to Nazism. In 1945 the (623 – 658 A. D.). of Juraj Jánošík. Czech and Slovak states joined again. The period of humanism and renaissance in the Hungarian Empire is forever linked The 18th century Communism Middle Ages to the name of its ruler, Matthias Corvinus saw the development of manufacturing In 1948 a communistic putsch took place After the break‑up (1458 – 1490). The first university on the and the modernisation of mining – the so called February Revolution. of “Samo’s Empire” territory of present‑day Slovakia, Academia technology. In 1770, the enlightened, The 1950’ s in Czechoslovakia were a period Slavonic tribes Istropolitana (1465 – 1491), was established absolutist ruler, Maria Theresa, established of political oppression, characterised by experienced a loss in Bratislava during his rule. the first school of mining in the world the victimisation of prominent political, of political unity. Only – the Mining Academy in Banská cultural and religious individuals and even Duke Pribina succeeded in establishing Štiavnica. In 1774, she also introduced of ordinary people. In 1968, Alexander a larger state‑like entity and founded Modern Times compulsory school attendance. Her son, Dubček (the then leader of the Communist the first church in this area between 824 An important historic moment the Emperor Joseph II abolished serfdom Party of Czechoslovakia) introduced the policy and 828. He fought and was defeated by for the development of the country was in the Hungarian Empire in 1785. known as “socialism with a human face” 12 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 13
that ended with the Prague Spring and be dismissed by the President. Upon the in agriculture and forestry. After the world the consequent crushing of the reformist advice of the Prime Minister, the President economic crisis armaments companies, movement by the Soviet army. appoints and dismisses other members chemical works and footwear works were of the Government. The Government is built. During the interwar period, Czech A period of “normalisation” lasted until collectively responsible for the exercise capital predominated in Slovak industry, the end of the 70’s. The normalisation of governmental powers to the Parliament, taking advantage of cheap raw materials regime plunged Czechoslovakia into an which may hold a vote of no confidence and low wages, which resulted in the economic, political and moral decline. It at any time. The Parliament can hold growth of Slovak capital investment. was succeeded by the democratic socialism a vote of no confidence in a single member Slovakia in 1980’s. Nevertheless, opposition towards of the Government, too. The current After the WW II and the communist the regime grew and during the late 80’s Prime Minister, Mrs. Iveta Radičová, takeover in 1948 industry, transport and it became more intense and organised. was appointed in July 2010. banks were nationalised and agriculture
About It led to the overthrow of the communist to the Czech and Slovak Federal collectivised. In that period the armament government in November 1989 referred to (Federative) Republic. It is a parliamentary Other state bodies are the Constitutional industry, and metal and heavy industry as the “Velvet Revolution”. democracy, and its Constitution guarantees Court of the Slovak Republic and the Supreme developed at the expense of traditional equal rights for all citizens regardless of Audit Office of the Slovak Republic. strengths in light and craft‑based Slovak Republic today gender, religion, race, national origin, social industries, such as textiles, clothing, On January 1, 1993 the former Czech and status or political conviction. The state administration is mostly executed glass and ceramics. The proportion of Slovak Federal (Federative) Republic was at a central level. The central bodies employment in industry and agriculture peacefully divided into two independent State bodies devolve to regional levels. If needed, local had gradually changed. While in 1948 Slovak and Czech states and the Slovak state administration authorities establish agriculture in Slovakia employed 60 % Republic joined the United Nations The National Council of the Slovak Republic other authorities and offices in the regions. of workers, at the beginning of 1980 it as a fully‑fledged member. is a unicameral parliament and the country’s amounted to app. 18 % of the economically main legislative body. The National Council active population. In October 1993 the European Parliament has 150 members elected for 4‑year terms 2.5 Economy ratified the association agreement between in direct elections. The electoral system In 1991, privatisation became a part the Slovak Republic and the European is proportional representation. Parties are The current economy of the Slovak Republic of the extensive changes in the economic Union. In spring 2004, the Slovak Republic allocated seats in the Parliament according is a result of a long‑term development. environment. It was connected with the joined NATO and on May 1, 2004 the Slovak to the percentage share of the votes they In the past agriculture presented the most liberalisation of prices; the achievement Republic joined European Union as a full get in parliamentary elections. Only a party important part of Slovak economy. of the internal convertibility of the currency; member. with at least 5 % of votes can obtain seats the liberalisation of foreign trade; and in the Parliament. The first manufactures on the territory the opening up of the country to foreign 2.4 Political system of present‑day Slovakia were established investors. The bulk of the industrial The President is the Head of State in the 18th century, while modern industry economy has been transferred to the private and state bodies elected for a five‑year term in a direct such as wood processing industry, sector, including the key areas of machinery, The Slovak Republic was established on two‑round election. The same person paper‑making industry, and chiefly chemical works, textiles, leather, shoes, January 1, 1993 as one of the successors can be elected President for a maximum flour‑milling industry started to develop glass, electronics and car manufacturing. of two consecutive 5‑year terms. The in the 19th century. In 1999, Slovak state banks were privatised. current Slovak President is Ivan Gašparovič At present, an estimated 85 per cent of the (elected for the second period in 2009). After the creation of Czechoslovakia economy is in private hands. in 1918, Slovakia suffered from being The Government is the highest tier a less‑developed part of the newly The agricultural sector, almost all of which of executive power and consists of the established republic. In Bohemia, is now privately owned, produces wheat Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Ministers Moravia, and Silesia, 39 % of the and barley, corn, sugar beet, potatoes, and Ministers. The Government is population was employed in industry fruit, vegetables, sun‑flower and livestock formed on the basis of parliamentary and 31 % in agriculture and forestry. In (cattle, pigs, poultry, sheep and goats). elections (last one held in June 2010). Slovakia only 17.1 % of the population was However, its relative economic contribution The Prime Minister is appointed and can employed in industry, and 60.4 % worked (lower than 5 % of GDP) is not substantial. 14 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 15
Since 1998 the national government has Slovakia’s largest exports include motor in 1913 which was registered at the the area between Panama and Colon. In 1881 focused on macroeconomic stabilisation vehicles (cars), electronic equipment, United States Patent Office. He was also he was asked to project the Corinth canal, and structural reforms to build a base chemicals, crude oil and petroleum involved in improving mining productivity the construction of which started a year for long‑term prosperity. In addition it products, iron and steel. Main imports and bridge construction. The parachute later and ended in 1893. He also marked out has integrated the Slovak Republic with include crude oil and natural gas, iron has, of course, become a vital part a railway from Athens to Larissa. European and international organisations, ore and concentrates, and liquid crystal of modern aviation. such as the Organisation for Economic products (source Spectacular Slovakia Cooperation and Development (OECD), – http://travel.spectator.sk). Hell, Jozef Karol – mining engineer (1713 – 1789) which the country joined in 2000. Bel, Matej – polyhistor
Slovakia (1684 – 1749) Slovakia is still trying to eliminate Inventor of the water‑pillar pump The fundamental tax reform was one the insufficient employment opportunities. Polymath, educationist, scientist, machine, which pumps water from a depth of the most important initiatives of The unemployment rate was 12.1 % in 2009 and evangelical priest. He was one of 212 meters and is still used for oil extraction.
About the Slovak government in the period (source Statistical Office of the Slovak of the greatest scientific figures of the 2002 – 2006. The tax reform has brought Republic – www.statistics.sk), but the 18th century, referred to as the Magnum a flat rate in direct income taxation since tendency is decreasing as the country decus Hungariae – the Great Ornament Hell, Maximilián – astronomer (1720 – 1792) 2004. There is one linear percentage is overcoming economic downturn caused of Hungary. He made an important rate of 19 % for both individuals and by the global crisis. contribution to pietism, was a pioneer One of the greatest astronomers corporations. Also since 2004 the unified in the field of collective research into of the 18th century and a director 19 % VAT rate has been applied for all goods 2.6 Significant scientists the Hungarian nation, and carried out of the Imperial Observatory and services, although since 1st January 2011, comprehensive scientific, historical, in Vienna, Austria. He correctly the VAT had to be temporarily raised to born in Slovakia and geographical research. He was the measured the distance between 20 %. It should be brought back to 19 % co‑author of a unique account of agriculture the Earth and the Sun in 1769 as soon as there is a decrease in the state Alexander, Vojtech in the Hungarian Empire – the works and calculated the Sun’s parallax. (1857 – 1916) deficit once the current global financial – radiologist Hungaria antiquae et novae prodromus crisis has subsided. One of the world’s greatest (1723), Aparatus ad historiam Hungariae radiologists and the (1735 – 1736), and Notitia Hungariae novae Ilkovič, Dionýz – chemist and physicist (1907 – 1980) In general, Slovak gross domestic product founder of radiology in the historico‑geographica. The University (GDP) is growing. In 2010, production Hungarian Kingdom. He of Banská Bystrica bears his name. A founder of Slovak physics. He played of the gross domestic product on described the development a distinguished part in elaborating the average, amounted to 65,905.5 mil. €. of tuberculosis and owned theory of polarography for which his teacher Compared with 2009, it increased by 4.5 % the first X‑ray apparatus in Slovakia. Blaškovič, Dionýz – virologist and collaborator Jaroslav Heyrovský was (1913 – 1998) at current prices. It rose by 4 % at constant awarded a Nobel Prize in 1959. prices. (source Statistical Office of the Slovak Received international recognition Republic – www.statistics.sk). In 2010, Bahýľ, Ján – engineer for his research into pathogenesis, (1865 – 1916) economic growth was affected mostly by an the properties of biological and biochemical Jedlík, Štefan Anián (1800 – 1895) increase of non‑domestic demand. In 2009, Inventor of the motor‑powered helicopter bacteria, laboratory virus mutation – physicist inflation averaged 1.6 % (CPI). (four years before Bréguet and Cornu). and the ecology of the influenza virus Constructed Ján Bahýľ was granted 7 patents for the and limpet encephalithis. the electromagnetic rotor, Export revenues of Slovakia are invention of the tank pump, air balloons a predecessor of the modern increasing, mainly because of export to combined with an air turbine, the first car electromotor, three years before other EU countries. There is a sustained to run on petrol in Slovakia and a lift to Gerster, Béla – engineer Farraday, and the unipolar (1850 – 1923) tendency toward growth in foreign direct Bratislava Castle. dynamo six years before W. Siemens. investments and Slovakia offers many Widely respected expert on water investment opportunities for domestic and constructions, designing the Panama foreign investors. The strongest position Banič, Štefan – inventor and Corinth canal projects. He participated Jesenský Jessenius, Ján – physician (1870 – 1941) (1566 – 1621) is currently held by the automobile industry in the 1876 international expedition and its subcontractors (Volkswagen, Lived in the USA from 1907 to 1921. to identify the most suitable route for Famous physician, anatomist and Rector Peugeot‑Citroën, Kia Motors). He constructed a prototype parachute an inter‑oceanic canal, and proposed of the Charles University. He carried out 16 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 17
the first public dissection in Prague in 1600. registered 12 patents in the field of wireless portrait lens that was vastly superior to Watt Gold Medal (1940). He was also He was also a Protestant activist, and was telegraphy. He established different the simple meniscus lens used in that a corresponding member of the French executed after the Battle of Bíla Hora at the frequencies for the dots and dashes time. Petzval won many distinctions for his Academy of Sciences. beginning of the Thirty Years War. in the Morse code, thus accelerating the work. A crater on the far side of the Moon transmission of messages. His other bears his name. (J. M. Petzval Museum, patents include the spinning reel (for Petzvalova ul. 3, Spišská Belá) Štefánik, Milan Rastislav – politician, Kempelen, Ján Wolfgan – polytechnician fishing), the wave meter, the electric soldier and astronomer (1880 – 1919) and inventor transformer, the magnetic detector, and an (1734 – 1804) engine producing electromagnetic waves. Segner, Ján Andrej – physicist The most important Slovak politician Slovakia Invented first fountain and pressure water He is often referred to as the “Slovak Edison”. and mathematician participating in the negotiations leading (1704 – 1777) piping, and designed a chess machine, to the founding of the Czechoslovak a talking machine and a typewriter Designed a reactive water engine known Republic in 1918. Originally a scientist, Pajdušáková, Ľudmila – astronomer About for use by blind people. as the Segner wheel, and invented he studied astronomy in Prague and (1916 – 1979) the water turbine principle which formed Paris. Štefánik specialised in astrophysics The first Slovak the basis for the functioning of modern and especially in solar physics. Lenard, Filip Anton Eduard – physicist woman astronomer, space rockets. (1862 – 1947) a specialist in solar Born in Bratislava but later moved to astronomy. She Štúr, Dionýz – geologist and botanist (1827 – 1893) Germany. Awarded the Nobel Prize in 1905 made her name as Selye, Ján – physician (1907 – 1982) for his work on cathode rays. the discoverer of Very active in the field of geology 5 comets with her Discovered the and the founder of outstanding collections. Starlit Sky Atlases stress reaction and A director of the Imperial Geological Mikovíny, Samuel – geodesist and Discoveries the adaptation Institute. and cartographer of the Comets. Other examples of her syndrome; did (1700 – 1750) scientific research included the systematic research into Invented an original cartographic method observation of meteors (among them the killer illness Štúr, Ľudovít – politician, while working in Bratislava, where the Umid meteor shower in 1945) and of the 20th national activist and linguist (1815 – 1856) he surveyed and marked out the basic observations of the Sun. Her facsimile century, coronary triangulation polygon from Bratislava collection published in 1946, which included thrombosis. The leading figure in the Castle Tower via Zobor to Sitno and more than 11,000 meteorites on 10,000 Moved to Canada Slovak revelation period Banská Bystrica. The Emperor Charles VI facsimiles, was at that time the second where he established the “Institut de in the 19th century. Together commissioned him to produce a collection largest after the Harvard collection. Medicine et de Chirurgie Experimentale”. with Jozef Miloslav Hurban of maps of Hungary. He also designed A small planet (3636) Pajdušáková = 1982 and Michal Hodža, he codified fortified buildings and artificial water UJ2, discovered in 1982, was named modern Slovak in 1844. reservoirs near the mines in the region of in memory of Ľudmila Pajdušáková by Stodola, Aurel – engineer, professor Ľudovít Štúr’s “Standard Banská Štiavnica. He also surveyed caves. the International Astronomic Union. and inventor Slovak” was published in 1846 (1859 – 1942) In 1735 he became head of the first mining in his “Náuka reči slovenskej” high school in the Hungarian Kingdom. Graduated in mechanical engineering or “Theory of the Slovak Petzval, Jozef Maximilián and worked as a professor at the Federal language”. – mathematician, optician, inventor Polytechnic in Zurich, Switzerland. He (1807 – 1891) Murgaš, Jozef achieved his greatest successes in the area – electrical engineer One of the foremost European researchers of steam and gas turbines, his calculations Thurzo, Viliam – physician (1864 – 1929) (1912 – 1984) in the 19th century. He is best remembered and constructions forming the basis of this Lived in the USA, for his work on optical lenses and lens particular field of mechanical engineering. Founder of oncological research and where he worked as aberration in early 1840’s (the Petzval He constructed a movable artificial arm, oncology in Slovakia. He discovered a priest. He was also curvature is named after him) which made known as Stodola’s arm, in 1915. He was the tumorous virus B77, which is still used involved in electrical possible the construction of modern granted the most prestigious engineering as a model for research into the genesis engineering, and cameras. Petzval produced an achromatic awards – the Grashof Medal and the James of tumours. 18 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 19
In 2007 two important documents dealing of the Slovak Republic established by 3. Research in Slovakia with further development and support separate act (the Act No. 133/2002 Coll. of S&T were adopted by the Government on Slovak Academy of Sciences). The Slovak research environment can be that are mostly financed from state budget, of the Slovak Republic. One of them is characterised by describing its research and in private research institutions financed “The Long‑Term Plan of the State Science The Council of the Government of the SR related legislation, by identifying Slovak by business sector. and Technology Policy by the year 2015” for Science & Technology is an advisory research institutions, where you could that deals with the coordination of S&T, body of government for preparation and find a job or a collaboration, and finally Government of the SR approves in the area infrastructure of R&D, systemic priorities implementation of state S&T policy. by identifying funding opportunities of R&D: of S&T and substantive priorities of R&D, The Council of the Government: (on national, bilateral, multilateral level) long‑term objective of state science support for S&T, international scientific and discusses and assesses conceptual for your research in Slovakia. & technology (S&T) policy; technical cooperation, evaluation of R&D materials and strategic objectives national programme of S&T and popularisation of S&T. for government decision making in the development (budgetary programme); area of S&T development;
Research in Slovakia 3.1 Legislative framework state programmes of R&D; The second document is the “Strategy submits to the government opinions of research state programmes of R&D infrastructure for the Popularisation in Society of Science and proposals of fundamental development; and Technology” which tries to find conceptual material from the field and development programmes of the Slovak Research reasonable forms of popularisation of the of organisation, funding, legislation, in Slovakia and Development Agency. researcher’s work, especially the beneficial focus of S&T development and results of their work in order to improve international S&T cooperation Research and development Government of the SR: public awareness of the importance submitted to the government by appoints and dismisses on the basis of developments in S&T. individual central bodies of state – its legal status of proposal of the Minister of Education, administration of the Slovak Republic. The basic act in the area of research Science, Research and Sport members The support of R&D is realised by and development (R&D) is the Act of the Council of the Government of the granting funds from the state budget On 1 July 2008 the amendment No. 172/2005 Coll. on Organisation Slovak Republic for Science & Technology, in the form of non‑repayable subsidies. No. 233/2008 Coll. of the Act No. 172/2005 of State Support for Research & members of the Board of the Slovak It can be a purpose‑oriented form of came into force. It includes definition Development and on Amendment of the Research and Development Agency, support on the basis of public tender of innovation, centre of excellence and Act No. 575/2001 Coll. on the Organisation members of state programmes councils; or an institutional form of support. specialised organisations of S&T – scientific of the Activities of the Government and approves on the basis of proposal of the Funds within purpose‑oriented form and technological park, R&D centre and on the Organisation of the Central State Minister of Education, Science, Research of support are granted for solving R&D technological incubator. The amendment Administration as amended by later and Sport the Statute of the Slovak projects and infrastructure development defines funding of memberships of Slovakia regulations effective as of July 1, 2005. Research and Development Agency, projects through the Slovak Research in international R&D centres, co‑funding The Act defines among others the role the Statute of the Council for Science and Development Agency and projects of projects approved within the FP7 of the Government, Ministry of Education, & Technology, statutes of state within state programmes. Funds within from national sources, launching and Science, Research and Sport of SR and other programmes councils; discusses annual purpose‑oriented form of support are maintenance of Central Information Portal central bodies of state administration, report on situation of R&D in the Slovak granted to private enterprises and are for Science, Technology and Innovation, position and roles of the Slovak Research Republic. considered as state support. Funds within evaluation of the qualification to execute and Development Agency, conditions institutional form of support are granted R&D as well as transposition of the and forms of granting state support, system The Ministry of Education, Science, for support of R&D at public and state Council Directive 2005/71/EC on a specific of state programmes of R&D and the Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic universities, in the Slovak Academy of procedure for admitting third‑country information support for R&D. (MESRS SR) is the central body that is Sciences and in state department research nationals for the purpose of scientific responsible for creating conditions for S&T institutes. Public and state universities research. R&D in the Slovak Republic is carried out development, for cost‑effective utilisation are top educational, science and artist in particular at universities, institutes of of state budget funds and coordination of institutions established by separate act The applicant who requests grant aid the Slovak Academy of Sciences and legal activities of other central bodies, the Slovak (the Act No. 131/2002 Coll. on Universities). from Slovak Research and Development entities which have been established Academy of Science and of universities Agency must have a qualification certificate by state administration central bodies which are involved in the preparation The Slovak Academy of Science for execution of R&D which is issued by (state department research institutions) and implementation of state S&T policy. is a self‑governing science institution MESRS SR for 6 years. 20 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 21
On 15 March 2011 the amendment relief. Conditions of incentive provision Public higher education institutions: Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra No. 40/2011 Coll. of the Act No. 172/2005 include establishment of a new research Academy of Arts in Banská Bystrica (Slovenská poľnohospodárska univerzita came into force. It defines a grant for workplace or extension of an existing (Akadémia umení v Banskej Bystrici) v Nitre) – www.uniag.sk scientific‑technical services and submission research workplace by an applicant – www.aku.sk, in Slovak only Slovak University of Technology of an application for incentives for research through its own resources. Incentives up Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Bratislava (Slovenská technická and development. MESRS SR shall post to 2 million € are approved by MESRS SR, in Bratislava (Vysoká škola výtvarných univerzita v Bratislave) on the Central Information Portal the list incentives higher than 2 million € must be umení v Bratislave) – www.vsvu.sk – www.stuba.sk of members of the expert commission, approved by the Government. An incentives Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts Technical University of Košice an advisory body of the Provider of grant, recipient is obliged to implement the in Bratislava (Vysoká škola múzických (Technická univerzita v Košiciach) the list of grants awarded and their project results in the Slovak Republic umení v Bratislave) – www.vsmu.sk, – www.tuke.sk amounts, the contracts on grant provision, territory at the latest within five years from in Slovak only Technical University in Zvolen the list of Applicants that have not been the day when the provision of incentives Alexander Dubček University in Trenčín (Technická univerzita vo Zvolene) awarded grants, including reasons thereof, to the project was completed and (Trenčianska univerzita Alexandra – www.tuzvo.sk
Research in Slovakia and the information indicating which to provide information on economic and Dubčeka v Trenčíne) – www.tnuni.sk, University of Economics in Bratislava applications for grants were approved social benefits resulting from the project in Slovak only (Ekonomická univerzita v Bratislave) on recommendation of the expert to MESRS SR. Catholic University in Ružomberok – www.euba.sk commission, and which were approved (Katolícka univerzita v Ružomberku) University of Prešov in Prešov despite non‑recommendation of the expert 3.2 Research institutions – www.ku.sk (Prešovská univerzita v Prešove) commission, and the justification of the Comenius University in Bratislava – www.unipo.sk decision thereof. MESRS SR shall receive Legal and physical entities with offices (Univerzita Komenského v Bratislave) University of Sts. Cyril and Methodius applications for incentives for R&D on the in the Slovak Republic active in R&D – www.uniba.sk in Trnava (Univerzita sv. Cyrila a Metoda basis of a public call posted on the Central are integrated in the following sectors: Constantine the Philosopher University v Trnave) – www.ucm.sk Information Portal and in press. MESRS SR the higher education sector, the state in Nitra (Univerzita Konštantína Filozofa University of Trnava in Trnava will post on the Central Information Portal sector, the private sector and the non‑profit v Nitre) – www.ukf.sk (Trnavská univerzita v Trnave) a list of applicants for incentives whose sector. According to Act No. 172/2005 Coll., Selye University of Komárno – www.truni.sk applications have been granted and the on the basis of competence evaluation, (Univerzita J. Selyeho v Komárne) – University of Veterinary amount of the grants, a list of applicants legal or natural person acquires certificate www.selyeuni.sk, in Slovak and Hungarian Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice for incentives whose applications have of competence to carry out research Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica (Univerzita veterinárskeho lekárstva not been granted including the reason and development, and thus is entitled (Univerzita Mateja Bela v Banskej a farmácie v Košiciach) for not granting and a list of contracts on to seek funding from the state budget. Bystrici) – www.umb.sk – www.uvm.sk incentives provision. The certificate is issued and withdrawn Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice University of Žilina in Žilina by the Minister of Education, Science, (Univerzita Pavla Jozefa Šafárika (Žilinská univerzita v Žiline) On 1 August 2009 the Act No. 185/2009 Coll. Research and Sport of the Slovak v Košiciach) – www.upjs.sk – www.uniza.sk on incentives for R&D and on amendment Republic upon a proposal of an evaluation of the Act No. 595/2003 Coll. on income committee. State higher education institutions: tax as amended by later regulations Armed Forces Academy of General came into force. The act regulates terms Milan Rastislav Štefánik in Liptovský and conditions of providing incentives 3.2.1 Higher education sector Mikuláš (Akadémia ozbrojených síl gen. for R&D to a legal entity that is an The Higher education sector consists M. R. Štefánika v Liptovskom Mikuláši) entrepreneur. of 20 public higher education institutions, – http://aos.sk 3 state higher education institutions and Police Academy in Bratislava Incentives include state budget subsidy 11 private higher education institutions. (Akadémia Policajného zboru to support basic research, applied According to the Act on higher education v Bratislave) – www.akademiapz.sk, research, experimental development, an institutions, these are third‑level in Slovak only elaboration of a project feasibility study, educational, scientific and arts institutions. Slovak Medical University in Bratislava a project on industrial property protection More details are available at the websites (Slovenská zdravotnícka univerzita or a project on temporarily assignment of the appropriate higher education v Bratislave) – www.szu.sk of high qualified R&D staff and income tax institutions. 22 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 23
Private higher education institutions of the Slovak Republic in accordance The Slovak Academy of Sciences Bratislava International School of with legislation of the state of their (www.sav.sk): Liberal Arts in Bratislava (Bratislavská headquarters on the basis of the permission medzinárodná škola liberálnych štúdií issued by MESRS SR. Earth and Space Sciences v Bratislave) – www.bisla.sk Astronomical Institute, Vysoké Tatry Central European College in Skalica Bank Institute Higher Education (www.astro.sk) (Stredoeurópska vysoká škola v Skalici) Institution, Inc. – headquarters Geological Institute, Bratislava – www.sevs.sk in the Czech Republic (Bankovní (www.geol.sav.sk) College of International Business institut vysoká škola, a. s. – sídlo Geophysical Institute, Bratislava ISM Slovakia in Prešov (Vysoká škola v Českej republike) – www.bivs.cz (http://gpi.savba.sk) medzinárodného podnikania ISM The Institute of Hospitality Institute of Geography, Bratislava Slovakia v Prešove) – www.ismpo.sk, Management, Ltd. – headquarters in the (www.geography.sav.sk) in Slovak only Czech Republic (Vysoká škola hotelová Institute of Hydrology, Bratislava Institute of Experimental Endocrinology,
Research in Slovakia College of Security Management v Praze 8, spol. s r. o. – sídlo v Českej (www.ih.savba.sk) Bratislava in Košice (Vysoká škola bezpečnostného republike) – www.vsh.cz (www.endo.sav.sk), in Slovak only manažérstva v Košiciach) University College of International and Mathematical and Physical Sciences Institute of Experimental Pharmacology, – www.vsbm.sk Public Relations Prague – headquarters and Information Sciences Bratislava College of Management/City University in the Czech Republic (Vysoká škola Institute of Experimental Physics, Košice (www.uef.sav.sk) in Trenčín (Vysoká škola manažmentu medzinárodních a veřejných vztahů (http://uef.saske.sk) Institute of Molecular Physiology v Trenčíne) – www.vsm.sk Praha, o.p.s. – sídlo v Českej republike) Institute of Informatics, Bratislava and Genetics, Bratislava College of Public Administration – www.vip-vs.cz, in Czech only (www.ui.sav.sk) (www.umfg.sav.sk) Economics and Management Palacký University Olomouc Institute of Physics SAS, Bratislava Institute of Neurobiology, Košice in Bratislava (Vysoká škola ekonómie – headquarters in the Czech Republic (www.fu.sav.sk) (www.saske.sk/inb) a manažmentu verejnej správy (Univerzita Palackého v Olomouci – sídlo Mathematical Institute of SAS, Bratislava Institute of Neuroimunology, Bratislava v Bratislave) – www.vsemvs.sk v Českej republike) – www.upol.cz (www.mat.savba.sk) (www.niu.sav.sk) College in Sládkovičovo Institute of Normal and Pathological (Vysoká škola v Sládkovičove) 3.2.2 State research Technical Sciences Physiology, Bratislava – www.vssladkovicovo.sk, in Slovak only Institute of Construction (www.unpf.sav.sk) Dubnica Institute of Technology and development sector and Architecture, Bratislava Institute of Virology, Bratislava in Dubnica nad Váhom The state R&D sector consists of research (www.ustarch.sav.sk) (www.virology.sav.sk), in Slovak only (Dubnický technologický inštitút institutes of the Slovak Academy Institute of Electrical Engineering, v Dubnici nad Váhom) – www.dti.sk, of Sciences (SAS) and state sector R&D Bratislava Biological and Chemical Sciences in Slovak only organisations established by central (www.elu.sav.sk) Institute of Botany, Bratislava Jan Albrecht’s Music and Art Academy state administration bodies. The SAS is Institute of Geotechnics, Košice (http://ibot.sav.sk), in Slovak only Banská Štiavnica (Hudobná a umelecká a self‑governing scientific organisation of (www.saske.sk/UGT) Institute of Chemistry, Bratislava akadémia Jána Albrechta Banská the Slovak Republic established by special Institute of Materials and Machine (www.chem.sk) Štiavnica, s. r. o.) – www.huaja-bs.eu Act, the activity of which is aimed at the Mechanics, Bratislava Institute of Inorganic Chemistry, Pan European University (Paneurópska development of science, education, culture, (www.umms.sav.sk) Bratislava vysoká škola) – www.uninova.sk and the economy. The SAS conducts its Institute of Materials Research, Košice (www.uach.sav.sk) St. Elisabeth University of Healthcare research activity by means of research (www.imrnov.saske.sk) Institute of Molecular Biology, and Social Work in Bratislava institutes established on the basis of Institute of Measurement Science, Bratislava Bratislava (Vysoká škola zdravotníctva a sociálnej either full or partial public funding. State (www.um.sav.sk) (http://imb.savba.sk) práce sv. Alžbety v Bratislave) sector R&D organisations funded in full or Institute of Plant Genetics – www.vssvalzbety.sk, in Slovak only in part by the state are established by the Medical Sciences and Biotechnology, Nitra appropriate central administrative bodies. Cancer Research Institute, Bratislava (http://pribina.savba.sk/ugbr/index. Foreign higher education institutions More details can be found on the websites (www.exon.sav.sk) php/home) Foreign higher education institutions of the appropriate SAS research institutes Institute for Heart Research, Bratislava Polymer Institute, Bratislava provide higher education in the territory and state sector research organisations. (www.usrd.sav.sk) (www.polymer.sav.sk) 24 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 25
Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences Institute of Musicology, Bratislava Research Institute of Plant Production, Slovak Office of Geodesy, Cartography Institute of Animal Biochemistry (www.uhv.sav.sk), temporarily locked Piešťany (www.cvrv.sk) and Land Register: and Genetics, Ivanka pri Dunaji for staff only Research Institute of Grass Vegetation Research Institute of Geodesy (www.ubgz.sav.sk) Institute of Oriental Studies, Bratislava and Mountain Agriculture, and Cartography, Bratislava Institute of Animal Physiology, Košice (http://orient.sav.sk) Banská Bystrica (www.vugk.sk) (http://www2.saske.sk/iap) Institute of Slovak Literature, Bratislava (www.vutphp.sk) Institute of Forest Ecology, Zvolen (www.uslit.sav.sk), in Slovak only Research Institute of Vintage Slovak Office of Standards, (www.savzv.sk) Institute of Theatre and Film Research, and Viniculture, Bratislava and Testing Office: Institute of Landscape Ecology, Bratislava Bratislava (www.cvrv.sk) Slovak Institute of Metrology, Bratislava (http://uke.sav.sk) (www.udfv.sav.sk) Animal Production Research Centre, (www.smu.sk) Institute of Zoology, Bratislava Institute of World Literature, Bratislava Nitra (www.cvzv.sk) (www.zoo.sav.sk) (www.usvl.sav.sk) Matica slovenská Parasitological Institute, Košice Ján Stanislav Institute of Slavistics, Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs (Slovak Foundation, Martin)
Research in Slovakia (www.saske.sk/pau) Bratislava and the Family of SR: basic research, ethnography, literature, (www.slavu.sav.sk), in Slovak only Institute for Labour and Family linguistics, Slovak history Historical Sciences Ľudovít Štúr Institute of Linguistics, Research, Bratislava (www.matica.sk), in Slovak only Archeological Institute, Nitra Bratislava (www.ceit.sk/IVPR) (www.archeol.sav.sk), in Slovak only (www.juls.sav.sk), in Slovak only 3.2.3 Private research Institute of Ethnology, Bratislava Ministry of Education, Science, (www.uet.sav.sk) Specialised organisations Research and Sport of SR: and development sector Institute of Historical Studies, Bratislava Arboretum Mlynany of SAS, International Laser Centre, The private R&D sector comprises (http://history.sav.sk), in Slovak only Vieska nad Žitavou Bratislava companies active in research. In order Institute of Social Sciences, Bratislava (www.arboretum.sav.sk) (www.ilc.sk) to be officially recognised as research (www.saske.sk/SVU), in Slovak only National Institute for Education, organisation, these are approved and listed Other state research institutes: Bratislava by the MESRS SR on www.vedatechnika.sk. Human and social sciences (www.statpedu.sk) Here you can find a list of approved Department of Social and Biological Ministry of Transport, Research Institute for Children companies that have research as they Communication, Bratislava Posts and Telecommunications Psychology and Pathopsychology, prevailing activity (more than 50 % of their (www.kvsbk.sav.sk) of the Slovak Republic: Bratislava activities): Institute for Forecasting SAS, Bratislava Research Institute of Posts and (www.vudpap.sk) ABE Projekt, s. r. o., Jaslovské Bohunice, (www.prog.sav.sk) Telecommunications, Banská Bystrica Slovak Centre of Scientific and Technical engineering and technology Institute for Sociology of SAS, Bratislava (www.vus.sk) Information, Bratislava Ardaco, a. s., Bratislava, natural sciences (www.sociologia.sav.sk) (www.cvtisr.sk) (www.ardaco.sk) Institute of Economic Research, Bratislava Ministry of Agriculture, Environment Biomedox s. r. o., Bratislava, (www.ekonom.sav.sk) and Regional Development of SR: Ministry of Environment of SR: natural sciences (www.biomedox.sk), Institute of Experimental Psychology, National Forest Centre, Zvolen State Geological Institute of Dionýz in Slovak only Bratislava (www.nlcsk.org) Štúr, Bratislava Central European Institute (www.psychologia.sav.sk) Regional Research Institute (www.sguds.sk), in Slovak only of Technology, Žilina, engineering Institute of Philosophy, Bratislava of Agroecology, Michalovce Water Research Institute, Bratislava and technology (www.ceit.eu.sk) (www.klemens.sav.sk/fiusav) (www.cvrv.sk) (www.vuvh.sk) Danubia NanoTech s. r. o., Bratislava, Institute of Politology, Bratislava Research Institute of Agricultural Slovak Institute of Hydrometeorology, natural sciences (www.upv.sav.sk) and Food Economics, Bratislava Bratislava (www.danubiananotech.com) Institute of State and Law, Bratislava (www.vuepp.sk) (www.shmu.sk), in Slovak only Ecoland, s. r. o., Trnava, natural (www.usap.sav.sk), in Slovak only Soil Science and Conservation Research sciences (http://ecolandonline.com), Institute, Bratislava Statistical Office of SR: in Slovak only Culture and art sciences (www.vupop.sk) INFOSTAT – Institute of Informatics Environmental Institute, s. r. o., Košice, Institute of Art History, Bratislava Food Research Institute, Bratislava and Statistics, Bratislava engineering and technology (www.dejum.sav.sk) (www.vup.sk) (www.infostat.sk) (www.ei.sk) 26 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 27
First Welding Company, a. s., Bratislava, Scientica, s. r. o., Bratislava, 3.2.4 Non‑profit sector of research So far, institutional support of S&T of HEI engineering and technology natural sciences (www.scientica.sk), & development sector and the Slovak Academy of Sciences (www.pzvar.sk) in Slovak only from the state budget predominates over FUSION, Advanced Research Group, sféra, a. s, Bratislava, Non‑profit sector of R&D comprises programme‑based purpose‑oriented form s. r. o., Bratislava, natural sciences engineering and technology of civic associations and non‑profit of support (61 % to 39 % in 2008). Research (www.mental.sk) (www.sfera.sk) organisations engaging in the area of R&D. spending per capita was 58.47 EUR and per Geneton, s. r. o., Bratislava, SK‑ALIMENTI, s. r. o., Pezinok, These non‑profit organisations have R&D 1 employee of R&D was 13.38 thousand EUR natural sciences (www.geneton.sk), natural sciences as their prevailing activity: in 2008. in Slovak only Slovak Productivity Center, Zilina, Building Testing and Research Geothermal Anywhere, s. r. o., engineering and technology Institute, n. o., Bratislava The system of R&D funding on national Bratislava, natural sciences (www.wcps.info/network/slovakpc.htm) (www.tsus.sk) level is governed by the Act No. 172/2005 (www.geothermalanywhere.com) ProFood, s. r. o., Pezinok, natural sciences EUROIURIS – European Legal Centre, Coll. on Organisation of State Support GISTA, s. r. o., Prešov, natural sciences SYNKOLA, s. r. o., Bratislava, a. s., Bratislava, research in the field for Research and Development. Subsidies
Research in Slovakia (www.gista.sk), in Slovak only natural sciences (www.synkola.sk) of social sciences for solving research tasks are granted GoldenSUN Slovakia, s. r. o., TAU‑CHEM, s. r. o., Bratislava, (www.euroiuris.sk) to entitled applicants through grant natural sciences (www.goldensun.sk) natural sciences (www.tau-chem.sk) Institute for Public Affairs, Bratislava, agencies (in particular the Slovak Research Hameln rds., Modra, pharmaceutical T‑Industry, s. r. o., Myjava, engineering center of public policy research and Development Agency) and state research, product development, and technology (www.tind.sk) and analyses programmes for R&D support. pharmacological and toxicological PRBI – Potato Research and Breeding (www.ivo.sk) studies, clinical studies Institute, a. s., Veľká Lomnica, The Young Physicists’ Tournament, 3.3.1 State research funding (www.hameln-rds.com) agriculture (www.vsuz.sk), in Slovak only Bratislava, natural sciences HORDEUM, s. r. o., Sládkovičovo, VUIS – CESTY, spol. s r. o. (www.tmfsr.sk) agencies agriculture (www.hordeum.sk) (VUIS‑Roads, s. r. o.), Bratislava, R&D Welding Research Institute – Industrial Slovak Research & Development IPM Engineering, s. r. o., Bratislava, in the field of structural engineering Institute of the Slovak Republic, engineering and technology (www.vuis-cesty.sk), in Slovak only Bratislava, engineering and technology Agency (www.ipmeng.sk) VÚJE Trnava, a. s., engineering, (www.vuz.sk) Slovak Research and IVMA STU, s. r. o., Bratislava, project and research organisation, Development Agency engineering and technology R&D in the field of nuclear energetics Support service in innovative processes (Agentúra na podporu (www.stuscientific.sk/content/ivma-stu- (www.vuje.sk) development in SMEs and technology výskumu a vývoja) s-r-o), in Slovak only VÚTCH‑CHEMITEX, s. r. o., Žilina, transfer is provided by the Business – SRDA – is the major R&D grant agency KONŠTRUKTA – Defence, a. s., R&D in the field of textile chemistry and Innovation Centre (BIC) Bratislava, in the Slovak Republic. It was established Trenčín, engineering and technology (www.vutch.sk) www.bic.sk. by the Act No.172/2005 in July 2005 and it is (www.kotadef.sk) Transport Research Institute, a. s., a successor of the previous agency running KWD, s. r. o., Zvolen, engineering Žilina, engineering and technology The complete database of R&D since 2001. and technology (www.kwd.sk) (www.vud.sk) organisations can be found on the website LIGNOPROJEKT Slovakia, s. r. o., Pulp and Paper Research Institute www.vedatechnika.sk. The agency acts in compliance with Bratislava, engineering and technology VUPC, a. s., Bratislava, engineering the long‑term objective of state S&T policy METRODAT s. r. o., Bratislava, and technology (www.vupc.sk) 3.3 R&D funding and it’s programmes are approved by engineering and technology Research Institute of Construction the Government. (www.metrodat.eu) Informatics, s. r. o., Košice, social on national level NanoDesign, s. r. o., Bratislava, sciences (www.vusi.sk), in Slovak only In 2009, spending on R&D stood at 0.48 % The Agency supports research and engineering and technology ZTS VVÚ Košice, a. s., Košice, of GDP. In total about 303 million of EUR development (basic and applied research (www.nanodesign.sk), in Slovak only R&D in the field of mechanical was spent on R&D in 2009, 55 % came from and experimental development) by Novativ, s. r. o., Čadca, natural sciences engineering and electrical technology public funds and 45 % from private sources. providing funds for the implementation R‑DAS, s. r. o., Žilina, engineering (www.ztsvvuke.sk) Basic research was in 2009 supported by of the following types of the projects: and technology ŽP Research‑development center, s. r. o., 45.5 % of the R&D budget, applied research research and development projects in all RELKO, s. r. o., Bratislava, engineering Podbrezová, engineering and technology was financed by 24.5 % of R&D budget fields of science and technology; and technology (www.relko.sk) (www.zpvvc.sk) and 30 % went to development funding. within the Agency‘s programmes; 28 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 29
under international agreements on preparation of joint international These programmes were terminated and diversification of higher education, scientific and technological cooperation projects; on 31 December 2010. Presidium of SRDA Culture and arts development. Thematic and projects within international preparation of joint publications prepares proposals of new programmes priorities and calls for submitting projects programmes and initiatives in the field and other outputs; which are supposed to be approved by for the forthcoming calendar year are of research and development including common active participation the end of 2011. published by MESRS SR in the second half costs of their preparations. at conferences as an output from joint of current year. R&D activities; More information Projects can be submitted to the Agency mutual use of special laboratory www.apvv.sk More information: within Agency’s Calls for Proposals. The equipment; website of the MESRS SR: www.minedu.sk agency usually supports projects with the research materials collection. VEGA – Science Grant Agency (www.minedu.sk/index.php?lang= period of solving not exceeding three years. sk&rootId=499, in Slovak only) Maximum duration of projects is Science Grant Agency (VEGA) is a grant The Agency provides funding on the basis 24 months. The financial support is strictly agency of the MESRS SR and the Board 3.3.2 State programmes Research in Slovakia of a grant scheme. The Grant scheme limited to short‑term participants mobility. of the Slovak Academy of Sciences. represents a system for the support of More about bilateral S&T cooperation can Researchers from universities in the SR, for research & development research and development activities which be found on page 34. from the Slovak Academy of Sciences and support specifies the fields of promotion of joint from organisations directly controlled The Act No. 172/2005 Coll. lays down research and development programmes; Multilateral Cooperation – support by the MESRS SR may apply for financial two types of state programmes: state the criteria for evaluating project proposals; of activities engaged in international support within the agency. VEGA accepts programme of R&D and state programme of the forms of providing funds. cooperation: applications for grants for scientific R&D infrastructure development. The state Call for submitting R&D projects induced projects that solve problems of basic programme of R&D is implemented by Grant scheme comprises of: by the international cooperation in EU research. A project submitted to VEGA has means of R&D projects in the given thematic General Calls Framework Programme. to represent a proposal for a solution to area aimed at solving key problems of social Bilateral Cooperation Call for submitting projects of R&D an integral mono‑topical scientific problem and economic development within society. Multilateral Cooperation EUREKA. within a specific time frame. Projects are The state programme of R&D infrastructure Agency programmes Call for submitting projects induced by not thematically limited. development is implemented in the form international cooperation in R&D within of development projects and is aimed at General Calls – Research and COST. More information: creating and improving conditions for R&D development support in all scientific areas Call for European Science Foundation website of the MESRS SR: projects solving in particular by means of The annually announced general call activities. www.minedu.sk technology infrastructure modernisation, has no limitation relating to the subject (www.minedu.sk/index. increasing qualification, support of mobility, orientation of projects. Specialisation, More about multilateral cooperation php?lang=sk&rootId=416, in Slovak only) establishing excellence centres and transfer objectives and subject content of R&D on page 44. of R&D outcomes into practice. Proposals project is defined by applicant. Projects KEGA – Cultural and Education of state programmes are elaborated by in the following groups of disciplines are Agency programmes the MESRS SR in cooperation with involved supported: natural sciences, technological The following programmes were approved Grant Agency partners in compliance with the long‑term sciences, medical sciences, agricultural for support in the period 2007 – 2010: The Cultural and Education Grant Agency objective of state S&T policy and are sciences, social sciences and humanities. Programme for Human Potential (KEGA) is an internal grant agency of the approved by the Government. Support in R&D and Science MESRS SR focused on financial support Bilateral scientific and technological Popularisation of research projects in the field of education More information: cooperation Support for R&D of SMEs and creative art in defined thematic website of the MESRS SR: www.minedu.sk. On the basis of international agreements Support for Creation and Activities areas. Applicants from universities may concluded by the MESRS SR calls for of Research and Education Centers apply for the financial support from 3.3.3 EU structural funds submitting projects on bilateral research of Excellence KEGA. Thematic areas are as follows: cooperation are regularly published. Support for University The programme of primary and secondary The support of R&D is implemented also and Academy cooperation schools development (perspectives); by means of EU structural funds. The The projects of bilateral cooperation with Entrepreneurship New technologies, methods and forms Operational Programme (OP) Research and are intended to have these objectives: Support for Preparation of FP7 projects in education, Content integration Development, financed from the European 30 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 31
Fund for Regional Development for the The managing entity for the operational spend part of their studies or carry out their Amount of a monthly scholarship period 2007 – 2013, has been adopted. programme is the MESRS SR. The Ministry research at a foreign university or research a) university student (master level) 280 € of Education, Science, Research and Sport institute. b) PhD student 470 € The OP Research and Development of the SR has established an Agency for the c) university teacher/researcher or artist: sets down several priority axis and it is Structural Funds of EU with the objective to The scholarship for the incoming – early‑stage university teacher/researcher carried out with respect to defined goals. provide assistance for the implementation applicants is provided for 1 – 12‑month stay or artist (without PhD or with less than Geographically, the OP covers the complete process (the acceptance, assessment, at a Slovak institution. The scholarship 4 years experience) territory of the Slovak Republic, i. e. all financial management and monitoring does not support pursuing the entire – experienced university teacher/researcher 670 € or artist: regions of SR are eligible for the financial of projects) of EU Structural Funds, in the Master/PhD programme in Slovakia, – with PhD or more than 4 years 850 € contribution from EU structural funds. programme period 2007 – 2013. nor does it for Slovak nationals studying of experience 1 000 € abroad. The applicant cannot already be – with PhD and more than 10 years The following priority axis were established More information: employed for lecturing/research activity of experience for the purpose of meeting the global goal website of the Agency: in Slovakia or have a parallel funding from
Research in Slovakia of the OP Research and Development: www.asfeu.sk/en/agency different source. Applications for scholarships are 1. Infrastructure of R&D submitted on‑line on www.scholarships.sk. 2. Support to R&D Other sources of R&D funding in Slovakia Citizens from following countries The on‑line application system usually 3. Infrastructure of R&D in the Bratislava Apart from public/state funding resources can apply for scholarship: opens 6 weeks before the deadline. Some region (including EU structural funds) R&D a) European Union Member States; documents have to be sent in original by 4. Support to R&D in the Bratislava region is also financed by the private sector b) other countries participating in the mail to the following address: 5. Infrastructure of higher education and non‑governmental non‑profit Bologna process (listed are only institutions organisations. In addition to national countries that are not EU member SAIA, n. o. funding, R&D is also funded from states) – Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Námestie slobody 23 The priority axis will be met through international resources, e.g. from EU Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, 812 20 Bratislava 1, Slovak Repbulic the following measures: research and technological development Croatia, Georgia, Iceland, Liechtenstein, 1.1 Modernisation and building of technical framework programmes. Moldova, Montenegro, Norway, Applications deadline: infrastructure for R&D the Russian Federation, Serbia 30 April until 16:00 CET – for winter 2.1 Support of networks of excellence (including Kosovo), Switzerland, and/or summer semester of the in R&D as the pillars of regional 3.3.4 The National Scholarship the Former Yugoslav Republic following academic year development and support Programme of the Slovak of Macedonia, Turkey, Ukraine; 31 October until 16:00 CET – for summer to international cooperation Republic c) Belarus, Kazakhstan; semester of the following academic year. 2.2 Transfer of knowledge and technology The National Scholarship d) Canada, Central American countries, from R&D into practice Programme (NSP) is NŠP Latin American countries, Mexico, More information: 3.1 Modernisation and building of technical a flagship of Slovak mobility the United States of America; www.scholarships.sk, www.saia.sk
infrastructure for R&D in the Bratislava funding. Establishment Národný e) Australia, China (including Taiwan), region of the NSP was approved štipendijný Egypt, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, 4.1 Support of networks of excellence by the Government of the program New Zealand, the Republic of South 3.3.5 Scholarships of the in R&D as the pillars of regional Slovak Republic in 2005 and is funded Africa, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, Government of the Slovak development and support by the Ministry of Education, Science, Vietnam. Republic awarded for the entire to international cooperation in the Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic. doctoral study within Official Bratislava region; The scholarship covers living costs during Development Assistance 4.2 Transfer of knowledge and technology The NSP supports incoming and outgoing the study, research or teaching stay from R&D into practice in the Bratislava mobility – the incoming scheme supports of foreign applicants. It does not cover The Government of the Slovak Republic region; foreign students, PhD students, university the travel costs to and from Slovakia. annually awards scholarships for doctoral 5.1 Building of infrastructure teachers and researchers to stay at study to students from the countries of higher education institutions Slovak universities and Slovak research eligible for Official Development and modernisation of their interior organisations; the outgoing scheme Assistance (ODA). Scholarships offered equipment with a view to improve supports Slovak students, PhD students, in the framework of conditions set out the conditions of the education process. university teachers and researchers to by the OECD for realization of ODA also 32 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 33
includes scholarships from the Government 3.3.6 Scholarships of the Ministry For the approved duration of study stay For the duration of the research stay, to be for Slovak nationals living abroad. of Education, Science, in a selected course of study, determined determined by the MESRS SR, the holders The granting of these scholarships has Research and Sport by the decision of the MESRS SR, i.e. during of the scholarship of the MESRS SR shall be become a component of the state support of the Slovak Republic the time when he/she is a scholarship provided: for Slovak nationals living abroad. holder, he/she shall be provided a monthly scholarship in total amount The MESRS SR offers scholarships for a monthly scholarship in total amount of 550 €, The study can be carried out only study stay within accredited study/doctoral of 330 €, accommodation of campus‑type at public universities in Slovakia and programmes or academic stays at public accommodation in a student hall of and meals in canteens for employees is held in Slovak. The Slovak Government universities or institutes of the Slovak residence and meals in student canteens of the receiving organisation at the scholarship also includes a scholarship Academy of Sciences for: for a fee equal with students that are SR same conditions as the Slovak citizens. for a 1‑year language preparation in the foreign university students for 5‑month nationals, case that the applicant has not completed stays (age between 18 – 26 years); education at a selected public university, The MESRS SR does not provide financial the previous education in the Slovak foreign PhD students for 5‑month stays under equal conditions with SR nationals resources for travel expenses associated
Research in Slovakia Republic. (age between 23 – 35 years); during the approved period of exchange, with the stay in the SR. foreign academics for 3‑month stays mandatory public health insurance. Citizens of following countries can apply (age between 30 – 50 years). Address, to which the documents for the scholarships of the Government The MESRS SR does not provide any must be sent: of the Slovak Republic within the ODA: Scholarships for study stay of PhD students financial sources to cover travel costs Afghanistan, Albania, Angola, Armenia, The MESRS SR grants scholarships to at commencement and completion The Ministry of Education, Science, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and candidates for PhD study stay in Slovak or of the study in the SR. Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic Herzegovina, Brazil, Cameroon, Chad, English language in the public universities International Cooperation Division Ecuador, Ethiopia, Georgia, Indonesia, in the SR, depending on the acceptance by Scholarships for 3‑month Stromová 1, 813 30 Bratislava Iraq, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, the university in the SR, or the specialised academic/research stays Slovak Republic Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Macedonia, training workplace of the Slovak Academy The MESRS SR grants scholarships Malawi, Mexico, Moldova, Mongolia, of Sciences (SAS). to candidates for the research stay at public Application deadline: 31st May Montenegro, Namibia, Nepal, Palestine, universities in SR or at research institutes Pakistan, Paraguay, Peru, Republic Candidates applying for scholarship for PhD of the Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAS). The delivery date to the Slovak Republic of Korea, Serbia, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, study stay within this offer must meet is decisive. Incomplete materials and Thailand, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam the following conditions: Candidates applying for this scholarship applications delivered after this deadline and Yemen. This list of eligible countries to complete higher education in a study must meet the following conditions: will not be considered. may vary every year. programme of the second level to complete a university study in a study (acquire degrees of “MSc.” at a foreign programme of minimum second level Decision of award/refusal of the scholarship The respective Ministry of Foreign Affairs university, or “Mgr.”, “Ing.”, “MUDr.” (acquired academic degree of “MSc.” of the MESRS SR will be announced of the country concerned is notified via or “MVDr.” at a university in the SR) at a foreign university, or “Mgr.”, “Ing.”, in writing to contact address indicated diplomatic channels of the approved and study at a foreign university in the “MUDr” or “MVDr.” at a university in application by the 31st August. It will be conditions for realising doctoral study at selected doctoral study programme. in SR) and work at a foreign university also announced electronically at Slovak universities in the Slovak Republic submit a completed application form or a research institute, www.studyin.sk. together with the number of scholarship for the provision of a scholarship of the to submit a completed application slots. Respective sending party presents its MESRS SR with a statement of the form for the provision of a scholarship More information: selected applicants via its representative study department of the doctoral study of the MESRS SR including scientific www.studyin.sk, www.minedu.sk office in Slovakia, or the representative according to the applicable list of study and research programme realised office of the Slovak Republic in the departments of doctoral study carried out in the SR, preliminary acceptance of respective country to the address of the in the SR with a preliminary acceptance the anticipated academic department Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak of the anticipated department or institute in the SR, as well as the respective Republic until the end of May every year. in the SR, as well as the respective appendices (the form is available appendices (the form is available electronically at www.studyin.sk), More information: electronically at www.studyin.sk), to be graduates of universities, website of the MESRS SR: www.minedu.sk to be PhD students, aged 23 to 35 years. aged 30 to 50. 34 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 35
3.3.7 Modernization Program 3.4 Funding for bilateral Austria Germany Slovakia 21 – Scholarships cooperation The Ministry of Science and Research The Federal Ministry of Education of the Ministry of Education, www.bmwf.gv.at and Research Science, Research and Sport 3.4.1 Bilateral scientific Austrian agency for international www.bmbf.de mobility and cooperation in education, There is also a possibility of cooperation of the Slovak Republic and technological science and research (OeAD‑GmbH) on joint R&D projects based on the Within the Modernization Program cooperation based www.oead.at agreement between the Ministry of Slovakia 21, the Ministry of Education on intergovernmental Education, Science, Research and Sport of of the Slovak Republic offers the possibility agreements Bulgaria the SR, The Slovak Academy of Sciences of study in the Slovak Republic to nationals The Ministry of Education, Youth and and DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer of Belarus, Bosnia and Hercegovina, Croatia, The Government of the Slovak Republic Science, Scientific Research Department Austausch Dienst – German Academic Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, has concluded bilateral agreements on www.minedu.government.bg Exchange Service) referred to as PPP Ukraine, namely within: scientific and technological cooperation – Projektbezogener Personenaustauch
Research in Slovakia free of charge 10-month language and to support the participation of scientists Czech Republic (Exchange programme for researchers academic preparation at the Institute and experts in joint projects with several The Ministry of Education, working on joint projects). of Language and Academic Preparation countries that are listed below. Institutions Youth and Sports Further information is available at for Foreign Students of the Center usually responsible for execution on the www.msmt.cz www.daad.de of Further Education of the Comenius national level are also listed. The Association of Innovative University in Bratislava (UJOP) with Entrepreneurship Hungary scholarship granted by the Government Calls for proposals are published on (submission of applications) The National Office for Research of the Slovak Republic in the amount websites of the responsible institutions www.aipcr.cz and Technology of 280 EUR/month + single contribution (usually once in two years). It is therefore www.nkth.gov.hu in the amount of 70 EUR for the student advisable to visit their websites on a regular China to pay for accommodation, board and basis. Proposals for the S&T projects The Ministry of Science and Technology India other expenses related to his/her study based on the concluded agreements can of P. R. C., International Cooperation The Government of India, Department in the Slovak Republic. be submitted mostly by both physical Department of Science & Technology, International and legal entities from both the public www.most.gov.cn/eng S&T Cooperation Division The above mentioned study is focused on and private sectors active in R&D. Only www.stic-dst.org language and academic preparation of the jointly submitted proposals will be eligible Egypt students for entrance examination to the for consideration. Both project partners The Ministry of Scientific Research, Italy universities in the Slovak Republic for the have to submit their common proposal Science and Technology The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Italy, purpose of their further university study in separately before the deadline to the www.egy-mhe.gov.eg Directorate for Cultural Promotion Slovak language within study programmes addresses of respective coordinating and Cooperation with technical orientation. It is expected institutions in their countries, which also France www.esteri.it that the students from mentioned countries provide the relevant application forms. The Ministry of Higher Education and Research after finishing the language and academic The final selection of proposals is made www.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr Lithuania preparation complete at least the 2nd level by the Joint Committee, which takes into Égide – a non‑profit association The Ministry of Education and Science of university study in the Slovak Republic, consideration the evaluation of both managing the French Government’s www.smm.lt i.e. engineer/master study. The university Parties. international cooperation initiatives students from mentioned countries study www.egide.asso.fr Poland in the Slovak Republic pursuant to the Financial support for bilateral projects can The Ministry of Science and Higher internal legal regulations of the Slovak be used exclusively to finance the mobility Greece Education Republic under the same conditions as of scientists and experts. The Ministry of Education, Lifelong www.nauka.gov.pl the Slovak students do. Learning and Religion of the Hellenic As of 31st March 2011 the SR has concluded Republic, General Secretariat for Portugal Application deadline: 31st May 20 bilateral intergovernmental agreements Research & Technology, Bilateral The Ministry of Science, Technology on scientific and technological cooperation Relations Division and Higher Education More information: with the following countries: www.gsrt.gr (in Greek only) www.mctes.pt www.mop21edu.sk, www.minedu.sk 36 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 37
Romania The U. S. Department of Energy in advance a contact with a Slovak host Currently, the long‑term scholarship The Ministry of Education, Research, www.doe.gov research institution. List of all Slovak (at least 1 month) pays 330 €/month Youth and Sports The U. S. Department of Health, higher education institutions and research for PhD students and 550 €/month for www.edu.ro (in Romanian only) National Institutes of Health (NIH) institutes can be found above in this guide. researchers. For short stays the receiving www.nih.gov party shall provide the visiting student/ Russian Federation Fogarty International Centre (FIC) For further information teacher/researcher with per diems and free The Ministry of Education and Science, www.fic.nih.gov (specific instructions, exact application accommodation. Department of International Cooperation NIH Guide to Grants and Contracts – deadlines) about funding for academic and http://eng.mon.gov.ru/str/dep/mez http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/ research pursuits please consult websites There are no grants for family members. index.html of the appropriate counterpart institutions. Scholarship holders must be insured The Republic of South Africa The U. S. Department of Agriculture – against illness and accident during The Ministry of Science and Technology http://www.fas.usda.gov/icd/rsed/res- Scholarship disbursement the scholarship period. www.dst.gov.za scient-exchanges.asp Sending party usually covers travel costs
Research in Slovakia The National Research Foundation, The U. S. Department of Education (based upon the distance between the For further information on terms Science and Technology Agreements Fund – National Institute on Disability and location of the host university or research and conditions of the insurance contact www.nrf.ac.za Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) – institute and the PhD student/researcher’s the appropriate counterpart institutions. www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/nidrr place of origin). Receiving party usually Serbia covers a living allowance. The Ministry of Science and Technological Development, 3.4.2 Bilateral intergovernmental agreements on educational, Programme offered by the Ministry Department for International Counterpart Target group of Education, Science, Research research and cultural cooperation Country institution (Incoming Special eligibility conditions Cooperation and European Integrations and Sport of the Slovak Republic & URL researchers) www.nauka.gov.rs on the basis of reciprocity The Government of the Slovak Republic Action Austria – Slovakia, Cooperation in Science and Education Slovenia has concluded bilateral agreements Research stay of PhD students At the date of application finished at least PhD student The Ministry of Higher Education, on educational, research and cultural (1 – 4 months) one‑semester Science and Technology cooperation with several countries PhD holder (excellent researcher) with no more than 10 years of research experience Research stay for postdocs www.mvzt.gov.si (see the table) in order to support PhD holder after having graduated from a PhD (3 – 6 months) exchange programmes providing programme, not to be in the position of an Spain scholarships for students and researchers Austria Associate Professor (no “habilitation” yet) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs coming to Slovakia to study or carry PhD students postdocs Short visits (up to 3 days) Age limit is 60 years. and Cooperation out research at Slovak universities univerisity teachers www.maec.es and research institutes of the Slovak www.oead.at researchers Academy of Sciences. Summer School of Slovak Language University student Ukraine and Culture (SAS) PhD student Ministry of Education and Science Scholarships are awarded for the purpose mobility agency Austrian international for and research science in education, and cooperation (OeAD‑GmbH) Advanced training University graduate of Ukraine, Department of International of study, research or training. There is no Up to 35 years (1 to 10 months) PhD student Cooperation and European Integration general limitation regarding field of study. PhD student www.mon.gov.ua (in Ukrainian only) Applicants must be fluent in English Research stay Researcher Teacher Up to 35 years or other language agreed/arranged (1 to 4 months) of higher education USA with a Slovak host institution or proficient institution Belgium-Flanders PhD Student The Slovak Republic has concluded in Slovak. Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher Teacher recommended; preferably students several separate bilateral agreements, and Culture (SAS) at higher education and researchers in Slavic languages relating to specific areas of Applicants must be nominated by the institution research. Further information can be appropriate counterpart institutions Teacher of higher Conferences, congresses, seminars education institution found at following websites: (see the table). PhD students and (1 to 2 weeks)
Flemish Ministry of Education and Training Ministry and Flemish of Education www.ond.vlaanderen.be Researcher The National Science Foundation researchers wishing to study or conduct www.nsf.gov research in Slovakia should arrange 38 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 39
Programme offered by the Ministry Programme offered by the Ministry Counterpart Target group Counterpart Target group of Education, Science, Research of Education, Science, Research Country institution (Incoming Special eligibility conditions Country institution (Incoming Special eligibility conditions and Sport of the Slovak Republic and Sport of the Slovak Republic & URL researchers) & URL researchers) on the basis of reciprocity on the basis of reciprocity University graduate PhD fellowship (3 years) PhD student
, PhD student Specialisation and research stay Teacher of higher
Teacher at higher Short‑term research stay
education institution (1 to 10 months) (max. 10 days) education institution Researcher Researcher
www.cfwb.be Teacher of higher Belgium-French Egypt Long‑term research stay education institution Community (2 to 6 months) PhD student Researcher Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher - mhe.gov.eg recommended; preferably students Researcher Basic knowledge of the Slovak language and Culture (SAS) Teacher at higher Summer School of Slovak Language and researchers in Slavic languages Teacher of higher recommended; preferably students and education institution and Culture (SAS) Ministry of Higher Education www.egy education institution researchers in Slavic languages Ministry Community, of French DepartmentGeneral of Education and Scientific Research www.enseignement.be/infosup only) (in French PhD Student Research in Slovakia Research stay Researcher (1 to 10 months) Teacher of higher PhD student education institution Study/research stay Researcher Belarus Finland Up to 35 years PhD Student (3 to 9 months) Teacher of higher Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher education institution recommended; preferably students and Culture (SAS) Teacher of higher and researchers in Slavic languages
Ministry of Education www.minedu.unibel.by education institution
PhD student Mobility International for Centre http://finland.cimo.fi Post gradual/research stay Researcher Study/research stay (3 months) PhD student (1 to 10 months) Teacher of higher education institution Bulgaria PhD student Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher Teacher recommended; preferably students and Culture (SAS) of higher education and researchers in Slavic languages PhD student Ministry of Education, Youth Youth Ministry of Education, and Science www.minedu.government.bg (in Bulgarian only) institution Germany Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher Study stay (1 year) PhD student and Culture (SAS) Teacher at higher education institution Researcher Research stay Teacher of higher (1 to 10 months) education institution China PhD student Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Ministry and Research Federal of Education www.bmbf.de Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher recommended; preferably students and Culture (SAS) Teacher at higher Post gradual/research stay PhD student and researchers in Slavic languages (5 to 10 months) Researcher Ministry of Education www.moe.edu.cn education institution Study fellowship PhD student (1 to 3 months) Postgraduate PhD student Greece Basic knowledge of the Slovak language PhD student Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher Teacher Croatia Basic knowledge of the Slovak language recommended; preferably students Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher and Culture (SAS) of higher education recommended; preferably students and researchers in Slavic languages and Culture (SAS) Teacher of higher institution and researchers in Slavic languages
Ministry of Science, and SportsEducation www.mzos.hr education institution Ministry of Education www.minedu.gov.gr Study stay (1 semester) PhD student Research stay (only at Slovak universities) PhD student (1 to 10 months) PhD student Czech Republic Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Short‑term study stay Teacher of higher Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher recommended; preferably students (1 to 3 months)/expert visit (5 to 20 days) education institution and Culture (SAS) Teacher of higher and researchers in Slavic languages PhD student education institution Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Ministry of Education, and Sports, House Youth Servicesfor International www.dzs.cz Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher Hungary recommended; preferably students and Culture (SAS) Teacher of higher Study/research stay PhD student and researchers in Slavic languages (3 to 10 months) Researcher education institution PhD student Denmark Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Researcher Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher recommended; preferably students Conferences, seminars, lectures Teacher of higher and Culture (SAS) Teacher at higher and researchers in Slavic languages education institution Ministry of Education http://eng.uvm.dk education institution Ministry of Education www.okm.gov.hu/english 40 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 41
Programme offered by the Ministry Programme offered by the Ministry Counterpart Target group Counterpart Target group of Education, Science, Research of Education, Science, Research Country institution (Incoming Special eligibility conditions Country institution (Incoming Special eligibility conditions and Sport of the Slovak Republic and Sport of the Slovak Republic & URL researchers) & URL researchers) on the basis of reciprocity on the basis of reciprocity
Post gradual stay University graduate Study stay PhD student Up to 40 years (max. 10 months) PhD student (1 to 10 months) Researcher
Israel Basic knowledge of the Slovak language PhD student Summer School of Slovak Language University graduate Norway Basic knowledge of the Slovak language recommended; preferably students Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher and Culture (SAS) PhD student recommended; preferably students and researchers in Slavic languages and Culture (SAS) Teacher at higher and researchers in Slavic languages
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Foreign www.mfa.gov.il education institution
University graduate Ministry and Research of Education www.regjeringen.no/nn/dep/kd Study/research stay PhD student Up to 40 years Researcher (max. 10 months) Research stay Researcher Teacher of higher (1 to 10 months) education institution
Research in Slovakia Italy PhD student Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Post gradual stay Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher recommended; preferably students (1 to 3 months) (only at Slovak PhD student and Culture (SAS) Teacher of the Slovak universities) and researchers in Slavic languages Poland language Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Foreign www.esteri.it PhD student Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher recommended; preferably students and Culture (SAS) Teacher of higher and researchers in Slavic languages education institution Ministry of Science and Higher Education www.nauka.gov.pl Ministry Education of National www.men.gov.pl
Study/research stay PhD student Kazakhstan PhD student Slovak or English language (3 to 10 months) Research stay Researcher (3 to 10 months) Teacher of higher education institution
Romania PhD student Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher
Ministry and of Education Science of the Republic Kazakhstan http://www.edu.gov.kz/en/english recommended; preferably students and Culture (SAS) Teacher of higher and researchers in Slavic languages Short‑term study stay Ministry of Education www.edu.ro (in Romanian only) education institution PhD student (up to 30 days) PhD student Research stay (up to 8 months) PhD student Research stay Researcher (1 to 10 months) Teacher of higher Musical interpretation course PhD student musical interpreter education institution Study stay (7 days) Teacher Russian Luxembourg Federation PhD student Basic knowledge of the Slovak language PhD student Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher Basic knowledge of the Slovak language recommended; preferably students Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher and Culture (SAS) Teacher of higher recommended; preferably students and researchers in Slavic languages and Culture (SAS) Teacher of higher education institution
and researchers in Slavic languages Ministry and Science of Education www.mon.gov.ru education institution
Ministry of Education, Vocation and Sports Vocation Ministry of Education, www.men.public.lu Study stay (1 to 9 months) PhD student
PhD student Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Serbia Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher recommended; preferably students and Culture (SAS) Teacher of higher
Research and study stay and researchers in Slavic languages Macedonia PhD student education institution
(3 to 10 months) Ministry of Education Serbia and Science, www.mp.gov.rs Ministry and Science of Education www.mon.gov.mk only) (in Macedonian PhD student, Research and study stay Study/research stay PhD student university teacher, Slovenia Up to 35 years (3 – 10 months) (3 to 10 months) Researcher researcher Moldova Student or teacher Summer School of Slovak Language of Slovak and/or and Culture (SAS) 21 days Ministry of Education www.edu.gov.md Slavonic studies Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology www.mvzt.gov.si 42 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 43
Programme offered by the Ministry Cooperation projects concerned with Counterpart Target group 3.4.3 Action Austria – Slovakia, of Education, Science, Research Country institution (Incoming Special eligibility conditions the following areas can be supported: and Sport of the Slovak Republic Cooperation in Science & URL researchers) on the basis of reciprocity and Education cooperation of young researchers (PhD students and post‑docs), This is a bilateral organisation of Slovak‑Austrian PhD programme the training on enhancement of communication objective of which is skills and on project preparation, Post gradual study stay University graduate to intensify cooperation between Austria organisation of joint Slovak‑Austrian Switzerland Up to 35 years (9 months) PhD student and Slovakia in the field of education and language summer schools. research. The Programme has been funded by the Ministry of Education, Science, Electronic submission of project proposals: Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic http://projekt.aktion.saia.sk
State Secretariat for Education and Research Education for Secretariat State www.sbf.admin.ch and the Federal Ministry of Science and
Research in Slovakia University graduate Research of the Republic of Austria on More information: Research stay (8 months) PhD student the basis of the agreement signed in 1992. www.oead.at, www.aktion.saia.sk Since 2008 the Action Austria‑Slovakia (in Slovak and in German).
has been running on the basis of the new Turkey PhD student Basic knowledge of the Slovak language Summer School of Slovak Language Teacher of higher recommended; preferably students agreement on its continuation during and Culture (SAS) 3.4.4 Fulbright Programs education institution and researchers in Slavic languages the period 2008 – 2013. for U. S. citizens
Ministry Education of National www.meb.gov.tr only) (in Turkish The Programme is administered by The Fulbright Program SAIA, n. o. (www.saia.sk). of the Slovak Republic PhD student Study/research stay Researcher providing U. S. citizens (1 to 10 months) Teacher of higher
Via the Programme, the financial support with individual grants and awards, is education institution is provided to PhD students and researchers administered by the J. William Fulbright Ukraine in the form of individual scholarships Commission for Educational Exchange, PhD student and cooperation projects. based on bilateral agreement between
www.mon.gov.ua Summer School of Slovak Language Researcher Students and researchers of Slovak the Governments of the U. S. A. and and Culture (SAS) Teacher of higher language studies education institution Following types of individual scholarships Slovak Republic. U. S. students, scholars,
Ministry of Education and Science, Youth Youth Ministry and Science, of Education and Sports only) (in Ukrainian are offered for PhD students and researchers: professionals, and teachers can obtain Lecturing/research stay (9 months) Teacher of higher scholarships for research stay of PhD a financial support for their study, research, For more information consult: education institution students (1 – 4 months): scholarship and teaching stays in the Slovak Republic. www.cies.org Researcher of 940 €/month; application deadline: University graduate All fields of study Knowledge of the Slovak Study/research stay (9 months); Researcher language at the level needed in fields: 15 March and 15 October General requirements for grants and awards for more information consult: Teacher of higher political science, history, anthropology www.iie.org scholarships for research stays are the U. S. citizenship at the time of education institution (by the begin. of the grant) U. S. A. of post‑docs (3 – 6 months): scholarship application and high level of academic and degree in English, History, American English Teaching Assistantship of 1 500 €/month; application deadline: professional achievements. The program is literature, TEFL/Applied Lingustics and/or (9 months), for more information graduating seniors experience in teaching and/or coursework 15 March and 15 October administered in the SR by the Fulbright office consult: www.iie.org in American studies scholarships for short visits in Bratislava (www.fulbright.sk). Specialist Program Researchers Teacher Min. 5 years of postdoctoral teaching (max. 3 days): scholarship of 90 €/ day; (2 to 6 weeks); for more information of higher education or professional experience in respective application deadline; application Fulbright Program Mechanisms:
Fulbright Commission Fulbright www.fulbright.sk consult: www.cies.org institution field of study possible throughout the year Programs administered by the Council scholarships for summer school of for International Exchange of Scholars Slovak language (for PhD students only); (www.cies.org) application deadline: 15 March Fulbright Scholar Program for U. S. Faculty and Professionals – to lecture Electronic submission of applications and conduct research in a wide variety for scholarships at www.scholarships.at of academic and professional fields. 44 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 45
The Fulbright Specialists Program It has two main strategic objectives: Environment (including Climate Change) targeting researchers who have already – designed to provide short‑term 1) to strengthen the scientific and technological Transport (including Aeronautics) established themselves as independent academic opportunities (2 to 6 weeks) base of European industry; and Socioeconomic Sciences and Humanities research leaders in their own right. ERC for U. S. faculty and professionals. 2) to encourage its international Space Advanced Grants allow exceptional competitiveness, while promoting Security established research leaders in any field Programs administered by the Institute research that supports EU policies. of science, engineering and scholarship of International Education (www.iie.org) Participation in FP7 is open to a wide Each theme is operationally autonomous to pursue frontier research of their Fulbright for Graduate Study range of organisations and individuals but aims to maintain coherence within choice. It aims to encourage risk‑taking and Research Abroad – for recent from any country in the world. the Cooperation Programme and allowing and interdisciplinarity, and supports graduates, postgraduate candidates, The procedure for participation and for joint activities across different themes, pioneering frontier research projects. and developing professionals and funding possibilities vary for different through, for example, joint calls. artists to conduct study and research groups of countries. For the implementation of this programme in the Slovak Republic. Advanced Across all these themes, support to a European Research Council (ERC)
Research in Slovakia graduate students capable of working The Specific Programmes constitute four trans‑national cooperation will be consisting of an independent Scientific independently are preferred. major building blocks of FP7: implemented through: Council and a dedicated implementation Fulbright English Teaching Cooperation Collaborative research: European structure, has been established by the Assistantship – for graduating seniors Ideas Excellence Commission. The ERC operates according with degrees in English, History, People Coordination between national research to the principles of scientific excellence, American literature, TEFL/Applied Capacities programmes autonomy, efficiency, transparency Lingustics and/or experience in teaching Joint Technology Initiatives and accountability, and supports and/or coursework in American studies. Technology Platforms investigator‑driven projects in ‘frontier Grantees will be placed as teaching Cooperation research’, carried out by individual assistants corresponding to their project The specific programme on Cooperation teams competing at the European level, priorities throughout the country. supports all types of research activities Ideas within and across all fields of research. Find Positions will require teaching at least carried out by different research bodies The Ideas programme supports “frontier more detailed information on ERC website 15 hours per week. in trans‑national cooperation and aims research” solely on the basis of scientific www.erc.europa.eu. to gain or consolidate leadership in key excellence. The budget is more than More information: scientific and technology areas. 7.5 billion €. Research may be carried www.fulbright.sk out in any area of science or technology, People FP7 allocates 32.4 billion €, representing including engineering, socio‑economic Entirely dedicated to human 3.5 Funding by two thirds of the overall FP7 budget, to sciences and the humanities. There is no resources in research, this the Cooperation programme. The budget obligation for cross‑border partnerships – Specific Programme has a significant overall multilateral/international will be devoted to supporting cooperation projects are implemented by “individual budget of more than 4.7 billion € over programmes between universities, industry, research teams” around a “principal investigator”. a seven year period until 2013. The People or international centres and public authorities throughout programme provides support for researcher the EU and beyond. In general, there are two types of grants: mobility and career development, organisations 1. ERC Starting Independent Researcher both for researchers inside the EU and The Cooperation programme is sub‑divided Grant – aims to support up‑and‑coming internationally. It addresses researchers 3.5.1 7th Framework Programme into ten distinct themes: research leaders who are about to at all stages of their careers, in both public of the European Community Health establish or consolidate a proper and private sectors and is open to all for Research, Technological Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, research team and to start conducting domains of research and technological and Biotechnology independent research in Europe. The development addressed under the EC Development (FP7) Information and Communication scheme targets promising researchers Treaty. Research fields are chosen freely by Technologies who have the proven potential of the applicants in a ‘bottom‑up’ manner. FP7 is the EU’s main instrument Nanosciences, Nanotechnologies, becoming independent research leaders. for funding research. It lasts Materials and new Production 2. ERC Advanced Investigators Grant – The ‘People’ Specific Programme is from 2007 till 2013 and has Technologies funding scheme that complements the implemented through Marie Curie Actions a total budget of over 50 billion €. Energy ERC Starting Grant funding scheme by under five headings: 46 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 47
‘Initial training’ of researchers to is provided with a budget of 4 097 million € Learning Programme (LLP) enables doctoral studies, and the institutions improve mostly young researchers’ to operate in seven broad areas: individuals at all stages of their lives to and organisations providing or facilitating career perspectives in both public Research infrastructures pursue stimulating learning opportunities such education and training. and private sectors, by broadening their Research for the benefit of SMEs across Europe. It is an umbrella programme scientific and generic skills, including Regions of knowledge and support integrating various educational and Leonardo da Vinci programme those related to technology transfer for regional research‑driven clusters training initiatives. LLP is divided in four Addresses the teaching and learning and entrepreneurship. Research potential of Convergence Regions sectorial sub programmes and four needs of all those in vocational education ‘Life‑long training’ to support Science in society so called ‘transversal’ programmes. and training, other than at tertiary level, experienced researchers in complementing Support to the coherent development as well as the institutions and organisations or acquiring new skills and competencies of research policies With a budget of nearly 7 billion € for 2007 providing or facilitating such education or in enhancing inter/multidisciplinarity International cooperation to 2013, the programme funds a range of and training. and/or intersectoral mobility, in resuming actions including exchanges, study visits a research career after a break and in (re) This specific programme also aims to: and networking activities. Projects are Grundtvig programme
Research in Slovakia integrating into a longer term research support the coherent development intended not only for individual students Addresses the teaching and learning needs position in Europe after a trans‑national of policies; and learners, but also for teachers, trainers of those in all forms of adult education, as mobility experience. complement the Cooperation programme; and all others involved in education and well as the institutions and organisations ‘Industry‑academia pathways and contribute to EU policies and initiatives training. providing or facilitating such education. partnerships’ to stimulate intersectoral to improve the coherence and impact of mobility and increase knowledge sharing Member States policies; Useful guide through the programme can Four transversal programmes targeted through joint research partnerships find synergies with regional and be downloaded at http://ec.europa.eu/ on crosscutting areas: in longer term cooperation programmes cohesion policies, the Structural Funds, education/pub/pdf/general/what_en.pdf. Policy cooperation and innovation between organisations from academia and education and training programmes and Languages industry, in particular SMEs and including the Competitiveness and Innovation The programme is open to Information and communication traditional manufacturing industries. Programme (CIP). 27 EU Member States, technologies – ICT ‘International dimension’, to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Dissemination and exploitation contribute to the life‑long training and Information on all financial instruments Turkey, Croatia. of results career development of EU‑researchers, of FP7 as well as calls for proposals is to attract research talent from outside available at http://ec.europa.eu/research/ The Lifelong Learning Programme consists Jean Monnet programme to support Europe and to foster mutually beneficial participants/portal/page/capacities. of: four sectoral sub‑programmes focusing teaching, research and reflection around research collaboration with research on school education (Comenius), higher European integration and key European actors from outside Europe. 3.5.2 Programmes for cooperation education (Erasmus), vocational training institutions and associations. ‘Specific actions’ to support removing in education and vocational (Leonardo da Vinci) and adult education obstacles to mobility and enhancing training funded from EU sources (Grundtvig): More information: the career perspectives of researchers http://ec.europa.eu/education/ in Europe (e.g. Researchers’ Night). Since 2004 the Slovak Republic is Comenius programme programmes/llp/index_en.html a member of the EU. Therefore there is no Addresses the teaching and learning The Education, Audiovisual and Cultural Information on open calls for proposal limitation for institutions from Slovakia to needs of all those in pre‑school and Executive Agency (EACEA) under the People programme is available at participate in any EU programme designed school education up to the level of the end – http://eacea.ec.europa.eu http://ec.europa.eu/research/participants/ to strengthen cooperations not only among of upper secondary education, and the SAAIC – Slovak Academic Association for portal/page/people. EU member states but also with third institutions and organisations providing International Cooperation – www.saaic.sk (non‑EU) countries. or facilitating such education and training.
Capacities Erasmus programme Erasmus Mundus The Commission’s proposals for the FP7 Lifelong Learning Programme of EU Addresses the teaching and learning needs Erasmus Mundus aims to Capacities programme aim to enhance As the flagship of all those in formal higher education enhance quality in higher research and innovation capacities European Funding and vocational education and training at education through scholarships ERASMUS throughout Europe and ensure their programme in the field tertiary level, whatever the length of their and academic cooperation MUNDUS optimal use. The Capacities programme of education and training, the Lifelong course or qualification may be and including between Europe and the rest of the world. 48 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 49
The programme offers financial support for Associates partners from the eligible for student mobility. Such cooperation For policy‑oriented projects (USA only), institutions and scholarships for individuals. countries can be involved in the enhances the quality of higher education other organisations such as accreditation Partnerships (Action 2). They play and vocational training for both partners agencies, education agencies or The Erasmus Mundus Programme an active role in the action but they are and promotes greater intercultural organisations, private companies, industry 2009 – 2013 is open to higher education not beneficiaries and may not receive understanding. and business groups, non‑governmental institutions and to any organisation active funding from the grant. organisations, research institutes and in the field of higher education and research The overall aims are to: professional bodies can also participate. as well as to students, doctoral candidates, Students and academics Promote better relations between teachers, researchers and university staff Students in higher education can receive European and partner countries’ More information: (academic and/or administrative) from any scholarships for: citizens, and improve understanding General: http://ec.europa.eu/education/ part of the world. – Undergraduate studies (Action 2); of cultures, languages and institutions. external-relation-programmes/doc74_en.htm – Masters studies (Actions 1 and 2); Facilitate the acquisition of skills EU‑US: http://ec.europa.eu/education/eu- The funding opportunities for different Doctoral candidates can receive needed for the global knowledge‑based usa/doc1156_en.htm
Research in Slovakia types of applicants: fellowships for: economy. EU‑Canada: http://ec.europa.eu/ – Doctoral studies (Actions 1 and 2); education/eu-canada/doc1563_en.htm Higher education institutions organised – Post‑doctoral studies (Action 2); The main activities are: EU‑Australia: http://ec.europa.eu/ into consortia/partnerships Teachers and researchers can receive Joint/double degree projects, launched education/eu-australia/doc1579_en.htm Higher education institutions can fellowships for: with the US in 2006, which support EU‑New Zealand: http://ec.europa.eu/ participate in: – Teaching and research periods consortia of higher education institutions education/eu-new-zealand/doc1595_en.htm – Consortia to develop and implement (Actions 1 and 2); in creating integrated joint study EU‑Japan: http://ec.europa.eu/education/ joint masters/doctoral programmes Other academic staff can receive programmes, with students from the two eu-japan/doc1599_en.htm (Action 1); scholarships/fellowships under Actions 1 sides spending a substantial period of EU‑Korea: http://ec.europa.eu/education/ – Partnerships (Action 2); and 2 study in the partner country and receiving eu-korea/doc1603_en.htm – Consortia to develop and implement either a joint or a double degree; promotion projects (Action 3). More information: Joint mobility projects which are European Commission, DG Education set up and run by a group of higher Tempus Other bodies and Culture education and/or vocational education Tempus is the European Union’s 1) Other bodies active in the field of higher http://ec.europa.eu/education and training institutions from the EU programme which supports education and research The Education, Audiovisual and Cultural and a partner country. Activities focus the modernisation of higher education Other public or private bodies active Executive Agency (EACEA) on short‑term mobility of students in the Partner Countries of Eastern Europe, in the field of education and research can http://eacea.ec.europa.eu/erasmus_ (typically one semester) with recognition Central Asia, the Western Balkans and participate in: mundus/programme/about_erasmus_ of study abroad periods, joint curriculum the Mediterranean region, mainly through – Consortia to develop and implement mundus_en.php development, and exchange of trainees, university cooperation projects. joint masters/doctoral programmes SAAIC – Slovak Academic Association teaching staff or administrators; (Action 1). for International Cooperation Policy dialogue and projects which The Education, Audiovisual and Culture – Consortia to develop and implement www.saaic.sk address strategic issues related to Executive Agency (EACEA) is responsible promotion projects (Action 3). education and training systems and for the management of Tempus IV Enterprises and other employers can policies of the EU and its partner (2007 – 2013), under the supervision of participate in: Cooperation in education countries. Activities include studies, EuropeAid Development and Cooperation – Consortia to develop and implement and training with industrialised seminars, working groups and Office (DEVCO) and Directorate‑General joint doctoral programmes (Action 1). countries benchmarking exercises. Relevant issues for Enlargement (DG ELARG of the Erasmus Mundus National Structures include recognition of qualifications and European Commission). can participate in: EU – Australia, Canada, Japan, New accreditation. – Consortia to develop and implement Zealand, South Korea and the USA The Tempus Programme 2007 – 2013 promotion projects (Action 3). The EU has set up joint study programmes Participants can include groups of higher is composed of 3 different actions, all 2) Other bodies which could be particularly with industrialised countries, particularly education and training institutions from the managed by the Executive Agency: relevant for the objectives and activities in North America and the Asia‑Pacific EU and a given partner country, students Joint Projects foster partnerships of the programme region, that provide financial support and faculty belonging to these institutions. between higher education institutions 50 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 51
in the EU and partner countries. They Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Science Synergy Biomedicine and Molecular Biosciences can develop, modernise and disseminate Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, The instruments grouped here aim to bring Food and Agriculture new curricula, teaching methods or Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, together excellent scientists at all stages Forests, their Products and Services materials, as well as boosting quality Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and of their careers to advance the frontiers of Materials, Physics and Nanosciences assurance and management of higher Venezuela. research. These activities are EUROCORES, Chemistry and Molecular Sciences and education institutions. ESF Research Networking Programmes and Technologies Structural Measures aim to develop More information: ESF Research Conferences. Earth System Science and reform higher education institutions http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/where/ and Environmental Management and systems in partner countries; to latinamerica/regionalcooperation/alfa/ Science Management Information and Communication enhance their quality and relevance, index_en.htm ESF also manages external programmes Technologies and to increase convergence with EU and takes a co‑ordinating role in various Transport and Urban Development developments. EC‑funded ERA‑NETs. Individuals, Societies, Cultures and Health 3.5.3 European Science Foundation Accompanying Measures comprise
Research in Slovakia dissemination and information activities The European Science Foundation There are 2 ESF member organisations from In addition, Trans‑Domain Proposals allow related to Tempus projects, such as (ESF) is an association of Slovakia: for broad, multidisciplinary proposals to conferences on various themes relevant 78 member organisations devoted Slovak Academy of Sciences (www.sav.sk) strike across the nine scientific domains. to the programme, studies, consultation to scientific research (research Slovak Research and Development COST is composed of 36 countries with stakeholders and activities aimed funding organisations, research performing Agency (www.apvv.sk) (35 member countries and one cooperating at identifying and making best use of organisations, academies) in 30 European country) that also govern it: 27 EU ‘good practice’ on projects. This Action countries. It promotes high quality science More information: Member State, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is also used to support the network of at a European level. It acts as a catalyst www.esf.org Croatia, FYROM, Iceland, Norway, Serbia, National Tempus Offices and Higher for the development of science by bringing Switzerland, Turkey and Israel (cooperating Education Reform Experts (HEREs). together leading scientists and funding country). COST does not fund research agencies to debate, plan and implement 3.5.4 COST – European itself but provides a platform for European More information: pan‑European initiatives. The ESF is Cooperation in Science scientists to cooperate on a particular European Commission, DG Education & committed to facilitating cooperation and Technology project and exchange expertise. These Culture: http://ec.europa.eu/education/ and collaboration in European science COST is an projects are called “Actions”. Each COST external-relation-programmes/doc70_en.htm on behalf of its principal stakeholders intergovernmental Action is a network centred around EACEA: http://eacea.ec.europa.eu/tempus/ (Member Organisations and Europe’s framework for nationally‑funded research projects index_en.php scientific community). This cross‑border European Cooperation in Science and in fields that are of interest to at least five activity combines both ‘top‑down’ and Technology, allowing the coordination of COST countries. COST provides the COST Programme ALFA III – Latin America ‘bottom‑up’ approaches in the long‑term nationally‑funded research on a European Actions with financial support for joint development of science. level. COST has a very specific mission activities such as conferences, short‑term Academic Training and goal. It contributes to reducing scientific exchanges and publications. Each ALFA (América Latina – Formación The ESF’s various instruments for promoting the fragmentation in European research COST Action has an objective, defined Académica) III is a programme of European science are open to all members investments and opening the European goals and clear deliverables. COST Actions cooperation between higher education of Europe’s scientific community. Research Area to cooperation worldwide. have located their topic into one of COST’s institutions of the European Union and scientific Domains. Latin America. The programme has ESF divides activities three pillars: As a precursor of advanced multidisciplinary been implemented through networks research, COST plays a very important More information: of higher education institutions (HEI), Science Strategy role in building a European Research Area www.cost.eu adult education or continuing education Within this pillar which aims to provide (ERA). It anticipates and complements centres; non‑profit organisations; National high level and high quality foresight and the activities of the EU Framework National coordinator for Slovakia: Authorities and private enterprises. advice on science, research infrastructure Programmes, constituting a“bridge” Prof. Milan Dado, PhD and science policy issues, are activities such towards the scientific communities of University of Žilina Participant countries are the Member as Forward Looks, Science Policy Briefings, emerging countries. It also increases the Faculty of Electric Engineering States of the European Union and the Member Organisation Fora and Exploratory mobility of researchers across Europe and Univerzitná 8215/1, 01 026 Žilina following 18 countries of Latin America: Workshops. fosters the establishment of scientific The Slovak Republic excellence in the nine key domains: e‑mail: [email protected] 52 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 53
3.5.5 EUREKA address any technological area but must 3.5.6 NATO – Science for Peace (bottom‑up activities) or are developed by have a civilian purpose and be aimed and Security Programme the Emerging Security Challenges (ESC)/ EUREKA is a pan‑European at the development of a new product, SPS Working Group (top‑down activities). framework for research process or service. The Science for Peace and development cooperation Clusters – longer term strategically and Security (SPS) Top‑down activities are initiated through which industry and research significant industrial initiatives. They Programme supports in response to specific needs organisations from 39 European countries have a large number of participants, practical scientific and (pressing priorities identified by NATO and the European Union develop and and aim to develop generic technologies technical cooperation among scientists divisions or Committees, requests from exploit the technologies crucial to global of key importance for European and experts from NATO and its partners. partner countries, important issues competitiveness and a better quality competitiveness. This is on a broad range of security‑related identified by Global Partner countries, etc.). of life. The EUREKA programme is aimed Umbrellas – thematic networks focusing issues in the fields of defence against at the companies and research institutes on a specific technology area or business terrorist threats and countering other Submission of Applications willing to co‑operate on the particular sector. Their main goal is to facilitate threats to security. The SPS programme The application forms and notes
Research in Slovakia projects at international level. It is the the generation of EUREKA projects in its consists of NATO‑funded activities, as well for applicants may be found at main instrument for market‑oriented own target area. as nationally‑funded SPS activities. In the www.nato.int/science/nato_funded_ research. The Slovak Republic became former case, the activities are either based activities/grant_mechanisms.htm. a EUREKA member on June 28, 2001. Countries participate in EUREKA projects on applications submitted by scientists Applications should be submitted through a network of National Information or experts (i.e., bottom‑up activities) or electronically to the Emerging Security EUREKA comprises the following fields Points (NIPs). The affiliation known as on proposals submitted by the Emerging Challenges/SPS Staff at the following of technology: Associated Country Status was initiated Security Challenges Division/Science e‑mail address: [email protected]. Electronics, IT & Telecomms Technology, as part of EUREKA’s strategy to enhance for Peace and Security Working Group Applications may be submitted at any Industrial Manufacturing, cooperation with countries outside of (i.e., top‑down activities), based on specific time. However, applicants need to be Material & Transport, Europe judged to have scientific and requests by NATO and partner nations. aware of the fact that the ISEG members Other Industrial Technologies, research potential. The National Project only meet twice a year to review the Energy Technology, Coordinators (NPC) are at operational Activities Funded by NATO applications. Information on the next Chemistry, Physical & Exact Sciences, level, running the National EUREKA Offices. meeting of the ISEG will be published on Biological Sciences (incl. medical They are the direct contact with project The SPS Programme supports collaboration the home page of the SPS website. technology and genome research), in each member country. NPCs facilitate the between scientists from NATO member Agriculture & Marine Resources, setting‑up and running of a project and are states and those from Partner countries Activities funded by Nations Agrofood Technology, responsible for project generation, national associated with NATO. Grants are given – Nationally‑Funded Activities (NFA) Measurements & Standards, and international support and follow‑up. for workshops, training, and multi‑year Technology for protecting humankind projects which are focused on research In addition to activities funded by NATO & the environment. More information: topics relevant to NATO’s objectives. All SPS, the Independent Scientific Evaluation www.eurekanetwork.org activities funded under the Programme Group (ISEG) also engages in activities Initiatives of EUREKA: must address topics that are proposed funded directly by one or more nations. Individual projects – the most common EUREKA National Project Coordinator in response to those Key Priorities. The SPS These consist of Pilot Studies, Short‑term EUREKA funding tool. It is used for for Slovakia: Key Priorities, which are in line with NATO’s Projects and Topical Workshops which are high‑technology market oriented R&D Jaroslava Kováčová Strategic Objectives and formally approved aligned with NATO’s Strategic Objectives projects aiming at developping a cutting Ministry of Education, Science, Research by the NATO Political and Partnerships and are in the NATO SPS Key Priority areas. edge civilian product, process or service and Sport Committee (PPC), are reviewed on Proposals for nationally‑funded activities and must involve partners from at least of the Slovak Republic a regular basis. Partner nations which have are made by (Alliance or Partner) nations two EUREKA member countries Stromová 1, 813 30 Bratislava developed Individual Partnership Action and can address any subject within areas Eurostars – a European reasearch and The Slovak Republic Plans (IPAPs) or Individual Partnership which are outlined in the Key Priorities development programme targetting e‑mail: [email protected] Programmes (IPPs) identify their national defined by the Political and Partnership small and medium entreprises. It can and regional priorities in those documents. Committee (PPC).
Activities are based either on applications Nationally‑Funded Activities (NFA) submitted by individual experts/scientists are included in the SPS Programme if they 54 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 55
are approved by the PPC; on the condition Scientific cooperation 3.5.8 CEEPUS – Central European Universities collaborate within that a sufficient number of nations between NATO and Ukraine Exchange Program the framework of approved networks. (at least four) have expressed collective Each network shall consist of at least interest and that they are willing to commit Ukraine is, after Russia, the second most for University Studies 3 universities from 3 different member the necessary resources. active Partner participant in the Science The main activity states involved in the Programme. for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme. of CEEPUS are university Applications for university networking and The NATO‑Russia scientific cooperation The NATO‑Ukraine Joint Working networks operating joint for mobilities are submitted only on‑line – the NRC Committee on Science for Peace Group on Scientific and Environmental programmes ideally at www.ceepus.info. The deadline is and Security Cooperation, which meets once a year leading to Joint Degrees, January 15. In the first round, the decision (alternating between NATO HQ, Brussels, esp. Joint Doctoral Programmes. CEEPUS on network membership is made by the A special programme of support for and in Kyiv), ensures that mutually covers mobility grants for students and National Selection Committee based on cooperation between scientists and beneficial cooperation between NATO teachers in this framework. the assessment of submitted applications. experts from Russia and NATO countries and Ukraine is continued according to the In the second round, the decision is
Research in Slovakia has also been established within the NATO‑Ukraine Annual National Plan (ANP). Programme members are Albania, Austria, taken by the International Conference Science for Peace and Security Programme. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, for the Selection of Cooperating Networks The NATO‑Russia Council (NRC) SPS Grant Applications for cooperative Czech Republic, FYR Macedonia, Hungary, which comprises representatives of Committee (see section “Framework activities between scientists from Ukraine Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Serbia, the CEEPUS Programme member countries. of the Programme”) has drawn up and scientists from NATO countries may Slovakia, Slovenia, University of Prishtina The list of approved networks is available an Action Plan for 2010 – 2012 which be submitted to the SPS Programme for in Kosovo, and, from the academic year at www.saia.sk. provides for collaboration in the following support. All activities funded under the SPS 2011/2012, Moldova. security‑related priority areas: Programme must contribute to SPS Key Should a university not participate Priorities. The SPS Programme supports The main objectives of CEEPUS are to in the Programme, its students and Defence against terrorist threats technical workshops, training courses and contribute to merging the European PhD students may still apply for scholarship – Explosives Detection multi‑year projects. Higher Education Area and European under the category “free mover“. – Information Technology‑based Research Area, Threats More information: use regional academic mobility as Scholarship rates for Slovakia: – Study of Human Factors in Defence www.nato.int/science a strategic tool to implement Bologna a) University students 240 €/month Against Terrorism objectives, (+ basic medical insurance where Countering other threats to security enable cooperation with Central needed), – Defence‑related environmental 3.5.7 UNESCO Programmes and Eastern Europe, the Ukraine b) PhD students and university lecturers security UNESCO funds and and Moldova. 470 €/month (+ basic medical insurance – Eco‑terrorism administers various where needed). – Disaster forecast and prevention types of fellowships, University cooperation is focused on of catastrophes study and travel the preparation of joint programmes The scholarships are paid off by the Countering other threats to security – grants. Open calls are published at the and joint diplomas, mobility of university National CEEPUS Office in Slovakia. Travel only nationally‑funded projects website portal.unesco.org > Join us > students, PhD students and university costs can be reimbursed by the respective – Modelling sustainable consumption Fellowships. Only applications submitted teachers, student excursions, professional National CEEPUS Office of the scholarship – Food security in times of natural and endorsed by the National Commission language courses and summer schools. holder’s country of origin. disaster or other non‑CBRN events of the candidate’s country are examined. As part of mobility activities, in particular – Security‑related regional studies The UNESCO Secretariat does not accept one‑term stays for university students and More information: – Biotechnology/bioscience requests from individuals. short‑term stays (1 – 2 months, minimum www.ceepus.info 21 days) for PhD students are supported Russian scientists may also participate More information: (related to PhD thesis elaboration) as National CEEPUS Office in Slovakia: in the core collaboration programme www.unesco.org/new/en/unesco well as stays for guest university lecturers SAIA, n. o. described under “Activities funded (1 month, minimum 5 days and 6 lectures). Námestie slobody 23, 812 20 Bratislava 1 by NATO”, in the framework of the Students and PhD students shall not be The Slovak Republic Euro‑Atlantic Partnership Council. older than 35 years of age. All fields of study Tel.: +421/2/54 41 14 26, +421/2/54 41 14 36 are welcome and there are no priority areas. www.saia.sk 56 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 57
3.5.9 International Visegrad Fund four scholarship schemes under the Visegrad Scholarship Programme: The mission of – Intra‑Visegrad Scholarships the International (for scholars coming from one of the Visegrad Fund Visegrad Group (V4) countries who is to promote development of closer plan to study in any V4 country other CHANGING JOBS cooperation among the Visegrad Group than that of their citizenship), MADE EASY (V4) countries – the Czech Republic, – In‑Coming Scholarships Hungary, Poland and Slovakia – and to (for scholars* who wish to study strengthen the ties among people in the at accredited public or private region. The Fund provides funding for universities or institutes of the common cultural, scientific, research and respective national academies of educational projects, youth exchanges, sciences in the Visegrad Group (V4)
Research in Slovakia promotion of tourism and cross‑border countries), cooperation. Most of the grant recipients – Out‑Going Scholarships, are non‑governmental organisations, (for current scholars or Master’s municipalities and local governments, degree holders from V4 countries universities, schools and other public to study at accredited public or institutions and also individual citizens. private universities or institutes The Fund also awards individual of the respective national academies scholarships and artist residencies. By the of sciences) end of 2010 the Fund had supported more – Visegrad Scholarships at OSA than 3 000 grant projects and awarded Archivum (in cooperation with almost 1000 scholarships and over 100 Open Society Archives in Budapest). artist residencies. The budget of the Fund an artist‑in‑residence programme, (6 million € as of 2010) consists of equal a curriculum‑building programme contributions of the Visegrad Group’s for universities. governments. * Citizens of the following countries The Fund runs: can apply: four grant programmes: Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, – Small Grants (contribution up to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Czech 5 000 €), Republic, Georgia, Hungary, Macedonia, – Standard Grants (contribution more Moldova, Montenegro, Poland, Russian than 5 001 €), Federation, Serbia, Slovakia, Ukraine. – Visegrad Strategic Programme The same rules are applicable to Kosovar (annual budget of the scholars. Programme 400 000 €) – Visegrad+ Programme (aimed at More information: democratisation and transformation http://visegradfund.org solutions for researchers of the countries within the EU’s International Visegrad Fund Changing jobs is easier when you have a pan-European Eastern Partnership). Kráľovské údolie 8, 811 02 Bratislava network to back you up. Our website offers numerous The Slovak Republic opportunities for work, international collaboration and funding opportunities for researchers in Europe. Discover a world of opportunities at http://ec.europa.eu/euraxess 58 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 59
The list of countries whose citizens need provide supporting documents: 4. Formalities – how to be ready a visa, together with a list of countries – documents demonstrating for which this requirement is waived, the purpose and conditions for the national authorities is laid down by the Council Regulation of the planned stay; (EC) No 539/2001, as amended, and its – accommodation‑related documents; Annexes I and II (find consolidated version – documents confirming sufficient 4.1 Entry & stay permits 4.1.2 Third country nationals at http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/ financial resources; LexUriServ.do?uri=CONSLEG:2001 – documents enabling an assessment The legal regulations are different for Visa R0539:20110111:EN:PDF). of the applicant’s intention to leave nationals of the European Union/European Since December 2007, the Slovak the territory of the Member States Economic Area/Switzerland and for third Republic is a part of the Schengen Area. (e.g. return ticket); Obtaining visa countries nationals. The regulations Therefore the common Schengen rules produce proof of possession of adequate governing the stay of foreigners in Slovakia apply. Nationals of third countries The visa application procedure may be and valid travel medical insurance. are stated by the Act on Stay of Aliens must in general apply for visa at the lengthy in some cases. Therefore, you pay the visa fee (depends on type of visa (Act No. 48/2002). representative office/foreign mission should file your application well in advance, and origin of applicant, see below and/or of the Slovak Republic in his/her country, but not sooner than 3 months prior to consult www.mzv.sk). Find more detailed information on the in person. Depending on the duration your planned trip. Under the applicable website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and purpose of the stay, either a Schengen law, the visa application procedure shall Travel medical insurance of the Slovak Republic www.mzv.sk and/or visa (entry visa) or a National visa not take longer than 15 days. Exemptions consult the Slovak embassy in your country. (long‑stay visa; for stay lasting more apply to the nationals of the third countries When travelling to Slovakia, every foreigner than three months) is required. which have signed Community‑level visa can take out travel insurance in his/her facilitation agreements. Such countries home country. Travel insurance can often 4.1.1 EU/EEA/Swiss nationals The Schengen visa entitles its holder include Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, be arranged through the Internet, even Citizens of the European Union as well to enter and stay in the Schengen area Montenegro, Macedonia, Moldova, the if the foreign national is already in Slovakia. as the European Economic Area and for not more than a total of 90 days within Russian Federation, Serbia and Ukraine. It will be necessary to pay the full amount Switzerland neither require an entry visa a six‑month period subsequent to the date With respect to the nationals of the for any health care provided. It is essential nor a permit for stays. These citizens only of the first entry. This visa may be issued aforementioned countries, the decision to keep all the documents about the have to register within 10 working days for one or several entries (single entry and must be delivered within 10 calendar health care provision and the payments upon their entering the SR at the Foreign multiple entry visa). days of the delivery of a completed visa made. He/she will be reimbursed for these Police Office, unless this responsibility application. Nationals of Macedonia, costs by the insurance company within
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities lies with the provider of accommodation. A national (long‑stay) visa may be issued Montenegro and Serbia do not need visa, the extent of his/her travel insurance. Notification must be submitted on to someone with a residence permit or if they are holders of biometric passports. Useful links for different types of insurance an official form, and in person. When as part of Slovakia’s commitments under (e.g. life insurance, household insurance, planning to spend a longer period of time international treaties or for the benefit of When lodging the application, the applicant car insurance, etc.): in Slovakia (more than three months), the Slovak Republic. Long‑stay visa holders shall: Slovak Association of Insurance they may apply for registration of their will be allowed to travel to other member present an application form companies permanent residence permit in person states (outside the frontier of the state who (downloadable from www.mzv.sk/en/ www.slaspo.sk/en at the appropriate Foreign Police Office. issued the visa), however the total of stay consular_info/visa); Slovak Insurer’s Bureau They will need to submit an official cannot exceed 90 days in any six month present a valid travel document www.skp.sk application form, evidence of a valid travel period. (the travel document must be valid for Insurance agencies portal document and proof of accommodation. at least three months longer than the www.poistovne.sk (in Slovak only) The first permanent residence permit The decision about the period of validity of expected validity of the visa requested On these websites you can find a list will be granted for a period of five years. both types of visa is made by the respective and it must have been issued within the of insurance companies with their contact Any subsequent application for a permit consulate of SR on the basis of the declared previous 10 years; the document shall data. will be granted for an unlimited period. purpose of stay. The period of validity contain at least 2 blank pages); is stated in the issued visa sticker. present a full‑face colour photo, with dimensions of 3 × 3.5 cm; 60 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 61
Visa fees Territorial validity of the visa is specified on representation of the Slovak Republic, lecturing activity, a visa sticker in the “Platné pre/Valid for” and when the Foreign Police Office grants artistic activity, Visa type Fee line. The visa may be valid for all Schengen it, it informs the representation, which sport activity, charged member states. In that case, “Valid for: subsequently issues the visa. The alien has study stay as a part of study carried out Uniform Schengen visa application 60 € Schengen countries” is specified on the to enter Slovakia within 180 days of the outside the Slovak Republic, Uniform Schengen visa application for children 35 € visa sticker entitling its holder to move issue of the visa. Within 3 days of entering activity arising from programmes from the age of 6 to 12 years freely within the entire Schengen area for Slovakia the alien has to collect the of the Government of the Slovak National (long‑stay) visa granted in connection the period of the visa validity and duration residence permit from the Foreign Police Republic or from programmes of with the performance of Slovakia’s commitments under international treaties or 33 € of stay. In the case of a visa with limited Office, in person. the European Economic Area, meeting for the benefit of the Slovak Republic or along territorial validity, the following may be the commitment of the Slovak Republic with a residence permit in the Slovak Republic specified on the visa sticker: “Valid for: entailed from an international treaty, or National (long‑stay) visa issued in connection the Slovak Republic” (i.e., the visa is valid Temporary residence permit research and development. with collection of granted residence permit 9.50 € only for the Slovak Republic), or “Schengen The temporary residence permit may in the Slovak Republic countries – GR” (i.e., the visa is valid be granted to an alien for the following However, as stated in the Act, the alien Visa application administration fee for nationals for all Schengen countries except Greece), purpose: falling under ‘Specific activities – research of third countries which have signed a Visa or “Valid for: SK, AT” (i.e., the visa is valid business activities, and development ‘may enter employment Facilitation Agreement with the Community: – Albania (holders of non biometric passports) only for the Slovak Republic and Austria). employment, relation for lecturing activity, but not for – Bosnia and Herzegovina studies, carrying out research and development. (holders of non biometric passports) 35 € A short‑stay Schengen visa can be issued specific activities, The researcher (who has been granted – Montenegro (holders of non biometric passports) for one or several entries. If you have family reunification permit for ‘Specific activities – R&D‘) can – Macedonia (holders of non biometric passports) been granted a single entry visa and you performing professional duties by civil perform lecturing activity for maximum – Moldova – Russian Federation leave the Schengen area, you cannot use component of armed forces. 50 calendar days in a calendar year – Serbia (holders of non biometric passports) the same visa for the re‑entry. A multiple without having been granted work permit. – Ukraine entry visa entitles you to repeatedly enter The temporary residence permit is bound to Moreover, a pedagogic employee, academic Note: The fees are paid in a freely convertible and leave the Schengen area during the one purpose only. In general, third country employee at a higher education institution, currency or in a national currency of the third period of its validity and permitted duration researchers (not EU/ EEA/Switzerland scientific, research or development worker country, in which the application has been filed, of stay. citizens) coming to Slovakia for the purpose participating in a professional scientific converted using the applicable official exchange of carrying out research or to pursue PhD event can work in the territory of Slovakia rate. No administrative fee is charged for visa Foreign nationals who have been granted studies shall have temporary residence without working permit if their employment application filed by a third country national who is a family member of an EU or EEA national and a short‑stay or long‑stay visa, or who permit for the purpose of Specific activities, does not exceed 7 consecutive calendar
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities exercise their right of free movement. are exempt from the visa requirement or for Employment or for Study depending days or the total of 30 calendar days Source: www.mzv.sk upon entry, are obliged to inform, within on the activity and labour conditions. in a calendar year (Act No. 5/2004 Coll. 3 days of their arrival, a competent police on Employment services). A visa is issued in the form of a visa department of the commencement, The temporary residence permit is granted sticker. Visas are issued by Slovak place and anticipated length of their for the time necessary for achieving its Purpose of Employment embassies and consulates general abroad stay. EU/EEA/Swiss nationals or foreign purpose, but for maximum of 2 years. or, under extraordinary circumstances nationals with a preferential status Temporary residence permit for the purpose If a third country researcher coming to (e.g. humanitarian reasons), by the Slovak are required to do so within 10 working of Study can be granted for the anticipated Slovakia is employed, he/she shall apply to police at a border crossing point. The visa days of their arrival. If you are staying duration of the study, but for maximum be granted a temporary residence permit entitles the foreign national to transit in a hotel or other accommodation facility, of 5 years. The residence permit may be for the purpose of Employment. Prior to through or to stay in the Schengen Area for the aforementioned obligation is performed renewed. his/her arrival in the territory of the Slovak the period of validity of the respective visa. by the respective accommodation provider. Republic he/she must apply (in person, by The length of stay and expiry date of the Purpose of Specific activities mail or by means of the future employer) visa is specified on the visa sticker. Within Visa is issued for free automatically for a work permit at the Labour Office local Schengen cooperation the Schengen when the residence permit is granted. According to the Act No. 48/2002 Coll. (see page 68). Member States issue a uniform visa valid In general, a researcher applies for the on Stay of Aliens as Specific activities for all Schengen countries. residence permit abroad at the official are considered: 62 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 63
Purpose of Study Obtaining temporary residence permit with the Ministry of the Interior of the Documents requested are: Slovak Republic, another mission where the Completed application form (download PhD students are considered to be 3rd Conditions governing the residence permit applicant should file his/her application. at www.minv.sk/?pobyt-cudzinca, level university students and hence they application procedure are specified in § 24 in Slovak only); apply within the scope of the temporary through § 45e of Act No. 48/2002 Coll. The law permits the filing of certain Valid passport (it has to be valid at least residence permit for the purpose of categories of applications directly in the 3 months more after the permit expires); Study. Foreign students (who have been Responsible authority at the national level is Slovak Republic – with a competent 2 identical colour photographs granted a temporary residence permit the Bureau of Border and Aliens Police of the Foreign Police Office (based on the (3 × 3.5 cm); for the purpose of Study) are allowed Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic envisaged place of residence). In the case Documents not older than 90 days to work a maximum 10 hours per week www.minv.sk/?uhcp (in Slovak only). of temporary residence applications, confirming purpose of stay: or the corresponding number of days or this option is available, for example, Specific activities months per year (Act No. 5/2004 Coll. on The application within the framework to applicants who: – confirmation from a school or any Employment services). In this situation of Specific activities or Study ensures do not need a visa in order to enter other education establishment on the work permit is not required. the applicant easier, faster procedures the Slovak Republic; performing the lecturing activity and provides some more advantageous will perform in Slovakia the activities by the applicant in the case provisions. According to the Act defined as Specific activities; of lecturing activities; Purpose of Family reunification No. 48/2002 Coll. on Stay of Aliens, apply for a permit for the purpose of – confirmation from relevant The temporary residence permit may be temporary residence permit for a Family reunification and is a minor ministry in the case of an activity granted to an alien by a police department the purpose of Specific activities (single) child not older than 18 years arising from programmes of the for the purpose of Family reunification, (not Employment) – see page 61 – is not of age of a foreign national who was government of the Slovak Republic which is: required, if the purpose of the stay is to awarded temporary residence, is an or from programmes of the a spouse of an alien who holds carry out research and development and asylum‑seeker, or who is a foreign European Economic Area; a temporary residence permit or the stay of the alien (third‑country national) national awarded permanent residence – hosting agreement 1) concluded with a permanent residence permit, if both in the territory of the Slovak Republic in the Slovak Republic; a research institute or a scientific of them are at least 18 years old; does not exceed 90 days in one half-year come to Slovakia on the basis of an workplace not older than 90 days if a minor (single) child not older than since crossing the outer Schengen border. international treaty where this option the purpose of the specific activities 18 years of age of aliens who hold The same applies for students. If the is clearly specified. is research and development; a temporary residence permit or of an stay exceeds the 90‑day period, the alien Study (including PhD study) alien having a permit for temporary stay, shall submit the application for granting What documents are needed – confirmation from a university or of his/her spouse or of an asylum temporary residence permit. or any other education
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities holder or of a spouse of an asylum Here you can find information on establishment on enrolment/ holder, who cares for the child based documents you have to supply when acceptance of the applicant; Where to apply on the law or based on the decision applying for the temporary residence permit Employment of the respective authority; Under a general rule, applicants are for the purposes of specific activities, – work permit issued by the relevant a dependent child older than 18 years required to file a residence permit study and employment. We provide here labour office (according to the place of age of an alien having a temporary application with a competent foreign information on the basis of the Act on of work); residence permit, or of his/her spouse; mission of the Slovak Republic accredited Stay of Aliens, with focus on researcher – confirmation of the employer a single parent dependent on the care for the respective country which has relevant information, and documents listed that the alien will perform work of an alien who holds a temporary issued a travel document to the applicant are examples of documents that might be in case when the work permit is not residence permit for the purpose or in which the applicant is resident requested. To see the full information for all requested. of Business activity or Employment (the list of Slovak foreign missions the purposes and cases, please consult the (also having a work permit) or of an alien accredited for particular countries is Act on Stay of Aliens itself or contact the 1) Hosting agreement has been defined in the Act who holds or a permanent residence available at www.mzv.sk). Only if such closest representation office of the Slovak No. 172/2005 Coll. on Organization of State permit; a foreign mission is non‑existent, or Republic. Support of Research and Development. It has a dependent person according in cases worth special attention and if not to be concluded with a hosting organization to the international treaty. prevented by other circumstances, the that has been approved by the Ministry Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak of Education, Science, Research and Sport of the SR and has been awarded permit to Republic will specify, upon consultations receive aliens. 64 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 65
Documents not older than 90 days How to get your documents sufficiently Find your national authority with The authenticity of the stamp is then confirming clear criminal registry authenticated competence to issue apostille with contact certified by a competent foreign mission of the alien: Documents issued by foreign courts details and price information at of that country, accredited for the Slovak – extract from the criminal registry and other foreign authorities, which have www.hcch.net/index_en.php? Republic, and, subsequently, by the Slovak of the Slovak Republic, the validity of public documents in the act=conventions.authorities&cid=41. Foreign Affairs Ministry. Documents – extract from the criminal registry of country of their issue, are deemed to have executed in the Arabic, Indian, Chinese the State of his/her nationality; and evidentiary status of public documents or Russian languages are translated into Legalisation – extract from the criminal registry in the Slovak Republic provided that the English before they are submitted to the of the State in which he/she resided prescribed certificates have been attached. In the case that the apostille is not Slovak Foreign Affairs Ministry. for the last three years preceding Exemptions are laid down in multilateral applicable, foreign documents intended the submission of application and bilateral agreements binding upon for use in the Slovak Republic are subject The administrative fee for legalisation by for the residence permit; the Slovak Republic. to legalisation by a Slovak foreign mission the Slovak Ministry of Foreign Affairs is Document proving sufficient financial in the given state. Legalisation of public paid in the form of a 16.50 € duty stamp. means not older than 90 days (sufficient documents means certification of the Clients are required to obtain duty stamps Apostille means = minimum monthly resources is authenticity of signatures and official seals in advance (e.g. at the post office). at the level of minimum monthly wage The Hague Convention Abolishing or stamps which they bear against their for each month of residence, which is the Requirement for Legalisation for specimens that are available to the foreign Contact details: 317 €/month as of January 2011). The Foreign Public Documents, the Apostille mission. The Slovak foreign missions verify Document authentication department document proving financial means is convention or the Apostille treaty is an the authenticity of a previous certificate Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak considered: international treaty drafted by the Hague issued by the Foreign Affairs Ministry Republic – a statement of personal account Conference on Private International of the country of origin of the respective Pražská 1, Bratislava in the name of an alien held Law. It specifies the modalities through document. in a financial institution; which a document issued in one of the Post address: – the confirmation of the statutory signatory states can be certified for legal In addition to legalisation of documents, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak authority of the legal person purposes in all the other signatory states. Slovak foreign missions also certify the Republic (e.g. university, research institute) Such a certification is called an apostille authenticity of signatures appearing on the Consular Section – legalisation of financial and material security (French: certification). It is an international documents, photocopies of documents and Hlboká cesta 2 of the alien during his stay; certification comparable to a notarisation their translations into Slovak; if a translator 833 36 Bratislava – document confirming long‑term in domestic law. is available at the foreign mission, Slovak Republic residence in the case of an alien the mission may also provide translations
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities having long‑term residence If a State signatory to the Hague of certain documents. Honorary consulates Telephone: in a EEA‑country; Convention certifies the document with an have no authority to legalise documents Document authentication department: – employment contract. apostille, no further certification of that – i.e., verify the authenticity of the stamp +421/2/59 78 39 40 document is necessary (find more info on and signature of a Foreign Affairs Ministry Foreign Affairs Ministry switchboard Researchers applying for residence permit apostille at www.hcch.net); the document consular department official. Slovak operator: +421/2/59 78 11 11 for scientific research under Specific is submitted to a sworn translator honorary consulates verify the authenticity Fax: +421/2/59 78 39 29 activities and Study at HEIs are not (in Slovakia) in order to be translated of signatures duplicates and photocopies, required to submit a document confirming into Slovak and is ready to be presented which are then deemed valid in the Slovak Office hours: their accommodation arrangements. to Slovak authorities. Republic with no further authentication Monday: 8:00. – 12:00 13:00 – 15:00 needed. Tuesday: closed All documents submitted with the Updated list of countries that are Wednesday: 8:00 – 12:00 13:00 – 15:00 application must not be older than 90 days. signatories to the Hague Convention If no Slovak foreign mission exists in the Each foreign document must be sufficiently is at www.hcch.net/index_ country which has issued the document, Thursday: 8:00 – 12:00 authenticated (either by an apostillation en.php?act=conventions.status&cid=41. further procedures may be as follows – Friday: closed or a consular super legalisation) and must the document has to be certified in the be translated into Slovak by an official country of its origin, with the last stamp translator certified by the Ministry of Justice affixed to it being that of the Foreign of the Slovak Republic. Affairs Ministry of the respective country. 66 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 67
Where to find an official translator An exemption from the requirement It is necessary to provide documents b) a child no older than 21 years of age Slovak embassies may provide for to pay fees is granted on a reciprocity proving the purpose of stay. In the case of or a dependent child; translations, or translate a document basis to students and scholarship family members, the following documents c) a dependent family relative in the direct intended for use in the Slovak Republic. holders who have been awarded are required proving the relationship with family line; No further verification is required in the a scholarship by the Ministry of the family member with whom they wish to d) a dependent family relative of the case of documents translated by a Slovak Education of the Slovak Republic, or who be reunited: spouse in his/her direct family line; embassy consular department. have been awarded a scholarship arising marriage certificate of the spouse; e) another dependent family member from the obligations under international birth certificate of the child; or a member of the EU/EEA/Swiss A list of sworn translators in Slovakia agreements, as well as to foreign photocopy of the granted residence national’s household. is available at the Ministry of Justice of the language lecturers teaching at Slovak permit of the residence permit holder; Slovak Republic, Slovak regional courts schools based on obligations arising other documents proving specific The police department shall grant a first and at http://jaspi.justice.gov.sk/jaspiw1/ from international agreements. circumstances of the relationship with permit (for permanent residence) to an htm_reg/jaspiw_mini_regt_vyber_hl1.asp the residence permit holder. alien (not an EU/EEA/Swiss national) (in Slovak only). How long does the decision process take who intends to stay on the territory of the The police department decides on the SR for more than 3 months provided that Once authenticated properly (legalisation For an alien applying for a temporary application for the granting of a permit for he/she is a family member of the EU/EEA/ or Apostille certification), public documents residence permit for the purpose of Specific temporary stay within 90 days following Swiss national with permanent residence translated into the Slovak language by activities and Study, a decision to grant the receipt of the application; in extremely (first permit/authorisation) in Slovakia and a sworn translator may be presented a permit for temporary stay or not, will complicated cases this period may be that he/she will be no burden on the health to institutions in the Slovak Republic. be made within 30 days following the extended by 90 days at the maximum. and social security system of the Slovak Documents translated by a sworn receipt of the application at the Foreign The police department may renew or cancel Republic. The favoured alien shall submit translator in the Slovak Republic do not Police Office in the Slovak Republic. the permit for temporary stay, or it just the application for granting first permit require any further verification. In general, the decision period is 90 days expires according to the Act. in person, abroad, at the representative (including temporary residence permits office/foreign mission of the Slovak What are the residence for employment and family reunification The alien, applying for the granting Republic or in person at the appropriate permits fees to be paid purposes). of a permit for temporary stay for the Foreign Police Office in the Slovak purpose of family reunification with an Republic. Pursuant to Act No. 145/1995 Coll. Procedures for family members alien (researchers) who holds a temporary on Administrative Fees as amended, residence permit for carrying out research Along with the application, the alien shall application for temporary residence permit Family members of aliens have to or development within the framework submit the following documents: Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities for the purpose of: submit the application for a permit for of specific activities (pursuant to § 22 a valid travel document; temporary stay for the purpose of family section 2), will be granted the permit by two photographs measuring 3 × 3.5 cm; business 232 € reunification in person, abroad, at the the police department with the validity till a document proving his family relation employment 165.50 € representative office/foreign mission the expiration of the validity of the permit to the EU/EEA/Swiss national with seasonal employment 33 € of the Slovak Republic accredited for the of the researcher (alien pursuant to § 22 residence on the territory of the SR; studies and special activities 99.50 € state, which issued his/her passport, or section 2). a document or statutory declaration family reunion 132.50 € at a representative office/foreign mission confirming that he/she is a dependent performance of official duties by civilian units 66 € accredited for the state of his/her place “Favoured aliens” family member or a member of the of armed forces of residence (unless otherwise provided by household (not necessary in case the Act) – see general rules (page 62). A favoured alien, who is a family member of a) and b) above); Exemptions granted under the of an EU/EEA/Swiss national, is not statutory declaration that he/she will aforementioned act: A minor child not older than 18 years of required to have a visa when entering not be a burden on the health and social Persons under 16 years of age are age and a dependent person (eligibility the SR. security system of the Slovak Republic. exempt from the requirement to pay criteria see page 62) according to the administrative fees for applications. international treaty may apply for the A family member is defined as follows: Contact information of the Foreign Police An exemption from the requirement to granting of a permit for temporary stay for a) a spouse and his/her child no older than departments in various districts of Slovakia pay administrative fees is granted to the purpose of family reunification also at 21 years of age or his/her dependent as well as information on entry and stay holders of a scholarship awarded by the the appropriate Foreign Police Office in the child; conditions (in Slovak language) can be Slovak Government. Slovak Republic. 68 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 69
found on the website of the Ministry of Univerzitná nemocnica L. Pasteura well as other member states, is obliged to The form “Work Permit Application” that Interior of the SR, Bureau of Border and v Košiciach (University hospital of L. Pasteur monitor the movement of workers within the Office provides to a foreigner shall also Aliens Police: www.minv.sk/?ocp. in Košice), Rastislavova 43, Košice, the Community. In the Slovak Republic, the contain the written “Employer’s Promise tel. +421/55/615 22 04, +421/55/622 52 51–5. monitoring of labour mobility is carried out to Employ a Foreigner”. The employer shall After the temporary residence permit on the basis of an information card for the confirm by signature and stamp that after is granted 4.2 Work permit purpose of statistical records. obtaining the work permit it shall employ the alien. The application is documented When the temporary residence permit Employment relations in Slovakia Information cards also by a verified copy of the certificate of is granted, a fee of 4.50 € is to be paid are regulated by the Labour Code the achieved education level translated into for the issuance of the permit. (Act No 311/2001 Coll.) and the Act on The employer fulfils the obligation to Slovak language. The application may be Employment Services (Act No 5/2004 Coll.) notify foreign employees by means of an submitted in person or delivered by mail. Within 30 days of being granted the which can be searched for in the Information card on commencement/ temporary residence permit or after the on‑line legislation database termination of labour relation or If the foreigner wishes the application to entry to Slovakia, it is necessary to submit http://jaspi.justice.gov.sk (the website is secondment/termination of secondment be submitted by the future employer, the a proof of health insurance in Slovakia in Slovak only). of the EU/EEA/Swiss citizen or his/her application must be supplemented with and a medical certificate proving that the family member to the territory of the Slovak the written consent to such a procedure, foreign national does not suffer from any Since 1st May 2004 the Slovak legal system Republic. Such Information card must together with the verification of the infectious disease which might endanger has distinguished between two groups be submitted to the local Labour Office authenticity of the foreigner’s signature public health. of foreigners: for each EU/EEA/Swiss employee within under the legal regulations of the state EU/EEA/Swiss nationals; 7 days after the EU/EEA/Swiss employee where he/she is a citizen, or according to Proof of health insurance has to state nationals of third countries (aliens). started working. the generally binding legal regulations that it is covering the territory of Slovak of the Slovak Republic. Republic and in the case that it is issued An employer is obliged to notify the 4.2.1 EU/EEA/Swiss nationals in a language different from Slovak, it has employment of an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen Posted employees to be translated to Slovak by an official EU/EEA/Swiss nationals and their family on an Information card, in writing. translator certified by the Ministry of members can be employed on the territory Non‑observance of this obligation is If a foreigner is in labour‑law relation with Justice of the Slovak Republic (see page 66). of the Slovak Republic on the same terms as considered to be a breach of the legal an employer or having an organisational Slovak nationals. An applicant has to meet regulations related to employment. component with labour‑legal status The medical certificate can be obtained an employer’s requirements, e.g., required situated outside the territory of the Slovak at 3 particular medical centres in SR only: education, language skills, required work The official form is available from Republic and such employer is sending
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities Exotic Diseases Clinic in Bratislava, Faculty experience etc. each Labour Office and it can be also a foreigner to perform work in the territory Hospital in Martin, and Faculty Hospital downloaded from the website of the of the Slovak Republic on the basis of of Louis Pasteur in Košice. Prices for For information related to all mobile Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family a contract concluded with the legal person the medical check vary and depend upon workers from EU/EEA/Switzerland of the Slovak Republic (www.employment. or natural person, it is necessary that the medical centre (from 112 € in Martin can consult the website of EURES gov.sk/index.php?SMC=1&id=776, in Slovak). a work permit and a temporary residence up to 250 € in Bratislava). (information network to facilitate permit for the purpose of employment be mobility of workers within the countries 4.2.2 Third country nationals granted to such a foreigner. Addresses and contacts: of European Union and the European Free Poliklinika cudzokrajných chorôb Trade Association) www.eures.sk and (aliens) – general conditions The written “Work Permit Application” (Exotic diseases clinic), http://ec.europa.eu/eures. In general, if an alien wishes to be completed in duplicate shall be submitted Americké námestie 3, Bratislava, employed in the territory of the Slovak by the foreigner to the Office in the tel. +421/2/52 92 56 88, +421/2/52 96 27 32 In practice this means that EU/EEA/Swiss Republic, prior to his/her arrival to the territorial competence of which he/she is citizens are not required to apply for a work territory of the Slovak Republic, he/she to perform the work. The application shall Univerzitná nemocnica v Martine, permit if they want to work legally in Slovakia. must apply (in person or by means of the be submitted in person or by means of the Oddelenie cudzokrajných chorôb future employer) for a work permit at the legal person or natural person to whom (University hospital in Martin, Department According to the regulation of the Council Labour Office according to the territorial the foreigner is to be sent to perform work of exotic diseases), Kollárova 2, Martin, (EEC) No. 311/76 on compilation of foreign competence where the foreigner is to in the territory of the Slovak Republic. The tel. +421/43/413 16 80 workers statistics, the Slovak Republic as perform the employment. application needs to be submitted together 70 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 71
with a copy of the contract, in the Slovak of the board of directors or shareholders, The application form must include the who is not older than 26 years of age language, outlining the basis on which the and who does not perform tasks connected written confirmation of the employer’s and who is employed casually or on foreigner is being sent to perform work with the actual provision of the company’s intention to employ the applicant part‑time basis within school exchanges in the territory of the Slovak Republic. services; henceforth. or within a youth program, in which the SR participates; Intra‑corporate transfer (b) a specialist – a person working as the In general, the labour market situation is who carries out a constant teaching legal person who is highly or extraordinarily taken into account when deciding on the or research activity as a pedagogic If a foreigner is in a labour‑law relationship qualified and has knowledge essential application. The work permit is granted employee or an academic employee with an employer situated or having for the company’s operation, research on the condition that the job vacancy is at a higher education institution, or as an organisational component with techniques or management; not possible to be fulfilled by a worker a scientific, research or development labour‑legal status outside the territory of registered in the database of employment worker. the Slovak Republic and such a foreigner is (c) a person working in managerial seekers. being sent to perform work in the territory positions of the legal person (a manager), A work permit is not required in the case of the Slovak Republic on the basis of who is responsible for setting up the The relevant district Labour Office when of an alien (inter alia): intra‑corporate transfer according to the commercial representative office of granting a work permit, does not take into who has permanent residence permit WTO Agreement, the written “Work Permit a service provider in the SR, and who does consideration the current situation on the on the territory of the SR; Application on the Basis of Intra‑Corporate not perform the direct sale or provision of Slovak labour market in the case of an who has been granted a temporary Transfer according to the WTO Agreement” services in the case that the service provider alien who carries out a constant teaching residence permit for the purpose completed in duplicate shall be submitted is seated in the territory of a different or research activity (inter alia) as: of family reunification; by the foreigner to the Office in the member state of the WTO and does not a pedagogic employee or who has been granted the temporary territorial competence of which he/she is have a representative office, branch or an academic employee at a higher residence permit for the purpose to perform work. The application shall be subsidiary in the Slovak Republic. education institution or of Study and his/her employment on submitted in person, or by means of the a scientific, research or development the territory of SR does not exceed legal person or natural relevant person to For more detailed information see also: worker. 10 hours per week or the corresponding whom the foreigner is to be sent to perform http://www.employment.gov. number of days or months per year; work in the territory of the Slovak Republic. sk/index.php?SMC=1&id=1823 If the Office grants the work permit, who has been granted a temporary The application is to be submitted (www.employment.gov.sk; look for “Občan the foreigner shall submit the work permit residence permit for the purpose of together with a verified document on the v sociálnej politike” > “Zamestnávanie obtained as a document supporting Specific activities, that is research and intra‑corporate transfer in the Slovak cudzincov v SR” > “Information on Access the application for a temporary residence development, and he/she performs language outlining the basis on which to the Labour Market of the Slovak permit for the purpose of employment. lecturing activity under an employment
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities the foreigner is being sent to perform work Republic“ or search for the latter phrase The work permit must not be older than contract and this employment in the in the territory of the Slovak Republic. in a search engine) 90 days. territory of the Slovak Republic does not exceed 50 calendar days in a calendar Pursuant to the WTO Agreement, this Granting the work permit Exceptions (as defined by Act year; concerns an employee who will be sent No 5/2004Coll. on Employment Services) who is a Slovak living abroad; in the context of an intra‑corporate transfer The work permit should be issued by the whose employment on the territory of to perform work in the territory of the relevant district Labour Office within The relevant district labour office when the Slovak Republic does not exceed Slovak Republic and who must have been 30 days following the receipt of the granting a work permit, does not take into 7 consecutive calendar days and a total employed by the sending legal person for at application. The Office issues the work consideration the current situation on the of 30 calendar days in a calendar year least one year prior to the such a transfer, permit with a one‑year validity at most. Slovak labour market also in the case of an and who is a pedagogic employee, and who is to perform work in the territory The work permit may be renewed. The alien (inter alia): academic employee at a higher of the Slovak Republic as: application for renewal of a work permit if stipulated in an international treaty, education institution, scientific, research shall be filed at latest 30 days prior to the which is binding for the Slovak Republic or development worker participating (a) an essential senior executive – expiry of the previous work permit; a work and published in the Law Code of SR; in a professional scientific event or an a person working as the legal person who permit is granted again for the maximum who will be employed for the purpose artist participating in an artistic event; primarily manages the running of the of one year. The renewal of a work permit of further training, not longer than for who is employed on the basis of the company or one of its departments, who is conditional upon the alien’s continued a period of one year; commitment of the Slovak Republic to is under the supervision or management employment by the same employer. an international treaty (published in the 72 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 73
Collection of Acts of the SR) defining contract may specify a probationary period of assessment of their choice. Health Board that for the employment of the alien which should not be more than 3 months; insurance on‑behalf of doctoral students up under this treaty the work permit is not the probationary period may not be to the age of 30 is paid by the state. After 4 hours of work per day an employee required; extended. The notice period is 2 months. is entitled to contribution to his/her board who performs work within the PhD scholarships are exempt from income tax. (in the form of meal tickets redeemable for systematic training for the profession An employer may conclude different types a restaurant or canteen meal). at schools and school establishments of contracts with employees (natural Average income registered in the school network. persons) in order to fulfil special tasks Business trips – travel costs and per diem that are out of the scope of employment An employee receives a wage in return for (agreement for performance of work, his/her work. The amount of an employee’s In the case of business trips an employee 4.3 Employment contract for services, and contract for wage and its constituents (basic wage plus is entitled to reimbursement of travel part‑time work of students). If such work bonuses etc.) must be stipulated in advance expenses and travel per diem according to The basic forms of employment include: results in a specific outcome – agreement within a contract of employment with the valid regulations (the amount differs employment for an indefinite period, for performance of work – shall be the employee. according to the length of a business trip). employment for a temporary – defined concluded. The scope of cumulative work period, executed for a particular employer (based Net wage is the wage without contributions In case a worker executes some tasks part‑time employment, on all agreements for performance of work into compulsory insurance funds and income for a natural or legal entity, to which there working from home, between the employee and the employer) tax. (See also chapters: Social Security, exists no employment/labour relation teleworking, and must not exceed 350 hours in one calendar Taxation, Health and Medical Care.) he/she can obtain travel allowances and employment as a student of a vocational year. travel per diem on condition it has been school or institute. The so‑called “work cost“ includes also agreed upon. If the mobility of a foreign If the work is carried out occasionally the contributions to social and health national (employee) is based on an Employment is for an indefinite period and is defined by the type of work – insurance fund an employer pays on behalf agreement on mutual exchange of staff if the employment contract does contract for services or contract for part of an employee. concluded between a Slovak and a foreign not expressly specify the duration time work of students shall be applied. employer, such foreigner can receive of the employment or where the legal The maximum workload within the contract Example: the average monthly gross wage a travel per diem to an amount treble requirements for signing an employment for services is 10 hours per week. in Slovakia in 2010 was 769 €. After being the per diem rate set for journeys on the contract for a temporary period cannot reduced by contributions to compulsory territory of Slovakia from the hosting be complied with. Employment is also for On the basis of a contract for part time insurance funds (social insurance, health employer in Slovakia, on condition this an indefinite period if there is no written work of students the load must not insurance), the rest of the income is taxed duty is not fulfilled by the sending foreign
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities employment contract. exceed half of the working time per week at 19 %. The monthly net wage then employer. These regulations arise from the (statutory maximum working week), amounts to 595.79 €. Act No. 283/2002 on Travel compensation. An employment contract for a temporary on average. This restriction is considered (It can be applied, e.g. to a short‑term period may only be signed for a maximum with respect to the whole duration of the Working time mobility within a research project). period of three years. contract, at maximum during 12 months. The standard working week for employees Maternity leave, family care Part‑time employment contract – an Special status of PhD students in the Slovak Republic is the maximum employer may specify a shorter working of 40 hours. In connection with the birth and care time than the statutory maximum working Full‑time PhD students receive of children, women are entitled to the week (working time may not be allocated a scholarship provided from the state Annual leave maternity leave lasting 34 weeks. If for each working day, the employee is budget. PhD students are not considered as a woman gives birth to two or more children paid a wage corresponding to this shorter employees, hence a university is not in the The basic leave entitlement is at least at the same time or if she is a single parent, working time arrangement. position of their employer in connection four weeks (20 days) in a calendar year; she is entitled to the maternity leave with the social and health insurance. it can be even longer (usually one more of 37 weeks. The date of commencing the Employment starts on the day specified Levies into social insurance funds are not week) provided it is set in the collective maternity leave is set by the attended in the employment contract as the day compulsory for doctoral students, although agreement, or on the basis of cumulative physician, usually 6 weeks before the on which an employee is to start work. they may opt for voluntary insurance work experience that exceeds 15 years after expected date of childbirth (at earliest Probationary period: an employment of defined percentage rates on the basis the age of 18. 8 weeks prior to the childbirth). This 74 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 75
period is calculated to the total duration of the process of employment is different www.profesia.sk – search database of job has permanent residence in the Slovak 34 weeks. In connection with the care for for EU/EEA/Swiss nationals and nationals vacancies (also in English and German), Republic, he/she becomes subject to a new‑born child, men are also entitled to from third countries. contact phone numbers and addresses statutory public health insurance in the SR. the paternity leave of the same duration of personnel agencies/recruitment An insuree can choose from three health from the date of birth of the child of whom Nationals of EU/EEA Member States agencies. insurance companies. they take care (usually 22 weeks). and Switzerland are employed under the same conditions as Slovak nationals. They http://directory.spectator.sk – see the The social and health contributions For the purposes of extended care of must fulfil the employer’s requirements, section “Personnel recruiters“. are paid both by the employee (4 % children, employers are obliged to grant e.g., required education, language skills of gross wage for health insurance and women and men who so request, parental or required working experience in an Slovak network of European Employment 9.4 % of gross wage for social insurance) leave until the age of three years of the appropriate professional area etc. Service – EURES – www.eures.sk. and the employer (10 % of gross wage for child (it can be requested at any time up to Information on the labour market, health insurance and 25.2 % of gross wage the age of 3 years, even if the mother/father Third country nationals can be employed living and working conditions and freedom for social insurance). The contributions are has been working after the maternity/ in Slovakia if they have been granted of movement is available at deducted automatically. paternity leave). a permit for temporary stay for the purpose http://ec.europa.eu/eures in all official of family reunification with an alien who is languages of the EU. The duty to register the foreigner In the case of children with long‑term poor employed or carries out a business activity, with the Social Insurance Agency health requiring special care, employers or has a permanent residence permit in the (SIA) and the duty to inform SIA about are obliged to grant women and men, who territory of the SR after a period of 12 months 4.4 Social security changes of foreigner’s situation lies upon so request, until six years of age of the of continuous stay (Act No 48/2002 Coll. on & health insurance the employer. The foreigner should have child. Such leave is granted for the duration Stay of Aliens). Otherwise, they are required accompanying documents issued by his/her requested by the parent, but generally for to obtain a temporary residence permit In Slovakia, the social security coverage previous social insurance institution at his at least one month. for the purpose of employment and to be is based on occupational activity, not disposal. granted a work permit. residence. Maternity leave granted in connection with PhD students are considered as students the birth must not be shorter than 14 weeks Job seeking The Social security system is made of three and not employees; their health insurance and may not be terminated or interrupted main components: is paid by the state (if the PhD study is before the lapse of six weeks from the date Information on job vacancies is available social insurance, at maximum of standard duration in the of the birth. on the Internet, in daily newspapers, social assistance, daily form, the PhD student has not advertisement newspapers, regional state social support. previously received PhD degree and is less
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities An employer must excuse an employee and local newspapers. than 30 years old). There is a possibility from work on the grounds of incapacity for The social security system falls under for voluntary social insurance. work due to illness or injury, quarantine, When seeking a job you can also use the competence of the Ministry nursing a sick family member or taking the services of other legal or physical of Employment, Social Affairs and Family 4.4.1 Provision of social security care of a child under ten years of age that, entities (e.g., agencies) which would (www.employment.gov.sk). The Social for important reasons, cannot be left in the arrange a job for a certain fee on the basis Insurance Agency (“Sociálna poisťovňa“ for migrant workers care of a childcare establishment or school of the permit issued by the Centre for www.socpoist.sk, most of the information Foreigners working on the territory that the child normally attends, or in case Labour, Social Affairs and Family. A list in Slovak) and Centre Office of Labour, of the Slovak Republic are subject to of sickness or quarantine of the person who of job intermediaries is available at the Social Affairs and Family are the executive the Slovak system of social welfare. Any otherwise takes care of the child, or if that website of the Centre: www.upsvar.sk bodies. worker who is employed on the basis person must be hospitalised due to the (website only in Slovak). of employment contract (according to expected delivery. Health insurance in Slovakia is not the Act no. 461/2003 on social insurance) Useful links: included in the scope of social insurance. on the territory of the Slovak Republic A job for your spouse When looking for a job as a researcher, The healthcare system in Slovakia falls for the period appointed by the employer it is advisable to have a look at EURAXESS under the competence of the Ministry must pay contributions to the compulsory If your spouse accompanies you during Jobs portal http://ec.europa.eu/euraxess, of Health (www.health.gov.sk, in Slovak insurance funds (social insurance company, your study or research stay in Slovakia where also job opportunities in SR are only). When a foreign national takes health insurance company) as if he/she and he/she wants to work in Slovakia, displayed. up employment with an employer who were a national of the Slovak Republic. 76 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 77
The provision of social security for migrant only one state at a time, which is usually For more information on common EU/EEA/ The social security issue is in general very workers basically differentiates between the country where he/she exercises his/her Switzerland provisions safeguarding social complex as the cases are specific, and the EU/EEA citizens and third‑countries occupational activity. security when being mobile throughout the consultation with competent authorities citizens. Member States see: and its branches is strongly encouraged. When moving, especially for short or http://ec.europa.eu/employment_social/ For this purpose, relevant information is EU/EEA/Swiss citizens medium term periods, mobile workers social_security_schemes/index_en.htm published on the portals of the Ministry of often prefer keeping their home country http://ec.europa.eu/employment_social/ Employment, Social Affairs and Family and The coordination of the social security pension regimes. Hence, there exists an free_movement/index_en.htm of Social Insurance Agency. These portals schemes within the EU/EEA countries and exception when an undertaking (university, http://ec.europa.eu/employment_social also provide on‑line consultations, contacts Switzerland and the protection of migrant research organisation, company) posts for phone help lines and contact points for workers are provided at the European a worker to a different Member State, i. e. Major applicable legislation for EU/EEA personal enquiry. However, even though level and Slovak Republic implements sends him/her to another Member State Member States: the English versions exist, most of the common rules. In order to fully implement to perform work there for it. In such a case Regulation (EC) No 883/2004 of the information is in Slovak only. the European legislation on social security the worker can/shall continue to be subject European Parliament and of the Council coordination within the two‑year deadline, to the legislation of the Member State of 29 April 2004 on the coordination the Slovak Republic has already undertaken of origin, provided that the anticipated of social security systems 4.4.2 System of social security several steps. duration of the work does not exceed Regulation (EC) No 987/2009 of the in Slovakia (excluding health one year. An example of posting could European Parliament and of the Council insurance) Crucial for executing social security be a research stay with a duration longer of 16 September 2009 laying down the rights of a migrant worker is cross‑border than 1 month but not exceeding 1 year at procedure for implementing Regulation General structure of support exchange of information between a hosting research organisation in another (EC) No 883/2004 on the coordination The social security system is made of three responsible institutions. Slovak Republic Member State, while the researcher of social security systems main components: participates in the Electronic Exchange of remains officially employed by the social insurance, Social Security Information (EESSI) and organisation in the country of origin. Major legislation of SR: social assistance, supplied this database with the relevant Act No. 461/2003 on social insurance state social support. Slovak institutions and branches. Three To be officially certified of the applicability Act No. 43/2004 on old‑age pension national Access Points for the exchange of home social insurance scheme, an E101 saving The basic role of the social insurance of social security information in their form should be issued before the posting Act No. 280/2002 on parental allowance system in SR is the protection of the respective fields of competence were by the respective social insurance company Act No. 600/2003 on child benefit economically active population in the event appointed: Slovak Insurance Agency; of home country upon request of the of life contingencies. Social insurance is
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities Centre of Labour, Social Affairs and Family; employer. In exceptional cases, period of Third country citizens financed by contributions; it is administered and Healthcare Surveillance Authority. posting can be extended by another year by the Social Insurance Agency (SIA). (E102 form shall be issued by the social Provision of social security for third country Mutually accepted documents are insurance company of the host country – citizens in the Slovak Republic is based The system of social assistance allows important part of smooth information e.g., Slovak Republic). on bilateral agreements on social security. citizens below the statutory subsistence exchange. Slovakia acknowledges the new Therefore the rules applied depend on the minimum to receive substitute resources Portable documents that should replace In case of a worker carrying out work country of origin of the citizen. Currently, from the State in the form of benefits. the E‑forms. Issuing of such documents in more than one Member State, he/she the Slovak Republic has signed and The three main types of benefits are: Health is the competency of the Social Insurance shall remain subject to single legislation active bilateral agreements with: Croatia, care allowance, Protective allowance, Agency, which continues to issue the only, i.e. it is necessary to determine the Yugoslavia (succession to Serbia, Slovenia, Activation allowance. previously used E‑forms for now. Relevant applicable legislation among several states Macedonia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina), documents can be downloaded from of occupation by E101 form. The E101 form Canada, Quebec, Russian Federation, The system of state social support the website of Social Insurance Agency shall be issued by the social insurance Ukraine and South Korea. is devised to address particular life www.socpoist.sk. company where the centre of vital interest contingencies, including the birth of a child, lies. Consequently, contributions to List of bilateral treaties can be found at: child maintenance and education, death of When living and working in different social insurance from all states where the www.socpoist.sk/index/index.php?ids=1550 a family member and others. These benefits Member States of EU/EEA and Switzerland occupational activity is performed will go (in Slovak only). are financed directly from the state budget. each person is subject to the legislation of only to one of the states. These include: 78 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 79
child allowance, Special status – Agreement bases, based on which the insured person to comply with the treatment regime parental allowance, on the performance of work, Contract paid sickness insurance in the relevant prescribed by the attending physician child birth allowance, for services, Contract for part time work period, and the number of days in the at the time of the temporary incapacity allowance to parents, of students relevant period.) to work; maintenance allowance, Neither employees nor employers pay any to stay at the address reported in the funeral allowance, of the above mentioned contributions to Conditions of entitlement: certificate at the time of temporary foster care allowances, social insurance if the labour relationship valid sickness insurance; incapacity to work; foster caregiver’s fee. is based on agreement on the performance after termination of sickness insurance to state the birth identification number of work, contract for services, contract – being in the period of entitlement to in the application (or the social security for part‑time work of students, except for sickness benefits or within the duration of identification number); Social insurance injury insurance, amounting to 0.8 % of the protective period. The duration of the to notify the Social Insurance Agency Social insurance system in Slovakia remuneration and guarantee insurance, protective period is 7 days. If the period of the termination of temporary comprises of: 0.25 % of remuneration, both paid by the of sickness insurance was shorter than incapacity to work within three days of sickness insurance, employer. 7 days, the duration of the protective its termination, if temporary incapacity pension insurance, period is equal to the duration of sickness for work lasted more than ten days accident insurance, insurance. The duration of the protective (by means of the employer). unemployment insurance (with a current Sickness insurance period for a female insured person, whose inclusion of the legal form of providing Sickness insurance is an insurance in the sickness insurance terminated at the time Commercial insurance companies benefits out of this system), case of loss or decrease in income due to of her pregnancy, is eight months; offer the possibility of additional guarantee insurance (insurance in the temporary incapacity to work, pregnancy, persons with voluntary sickness health insurance during sickness leave case of a employer’s insolvency). maternity. The following benefits are paid insurance are entitled to sickness as the income of an employee is being from the system of sickness insurance: benefits if, during the last two years reduced. Levies into the compulsory social sickness cash benefit, preceding temporary incapacity to work, insurance funds of employees maternity benefit, they were covered by sickness insurance Maternity benefits benefit for nursing a sick relative, for not less than 270 days; Contributions are a percentage of the equalisation allowance. entitlement to sickness benefits ceases Insured women are entitled to maternity basis for the assessment which is usually on the day following the last day of benefits from the beginning of the sixth the gross wage, while the minimum Sickness cash benefit temporary incapacity to work, not later week preceding the expected date nd and maximum amounts of the basis – income during sick leave than with the lapse of the 52 week from of delivery (childbirth) as determined by of the assessment are set. the beginning of temporary incapacity an attending practitioner, but not before
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities During sick leave an employee/insured to work (support period); the beginning of the eighth week preceding An employer is obliged to register an person does not receive any salary, but employees are entitled to sickness the expected delivery date, or from the date employee at the appropriate office of he/she, after being certified as temporarily benefits if they do not receive of birth if it comes earlier than the aforesaid SIA at least a day before commencing unfit to work due to illness or injury, or due income that may be considered dates. the employment relationship (regardless to quarantine by an authorised doctor, is as an assessment base. of whether the relationship is in the entitled to sick pay. It is at the rate of 25 % As a rule, 34 weeks are provided from form of an employment contract – full or of the employee’s basis of assessment for Filing the claim: the commencement of entitlement. part‑time or in the form of an agreement the first 3 days, then at the rate of 55 % of using a form of the Social Insurance In the case that a woman gives birth on the performance of work, agreement the employee’s basis of assessment. During Agency – Certificate of Temporary to two or more children at the same time, on part‑time work of students). SIA the period of first 10 days of the sick leave Work Incapacity issued by the medical and takes care of at least two of these assigns the insured person a social security the benefits are paid by his/her employer; practitioner of a health establishment, children, or if she is a single mother, identification number (in case of Slovak from the 11th day the sick pay is paid by the submitted by means of the employer. her entitlement to maternity benefits nationals it is the birth identification Social Insurance Agency (at the rate of 55 % terminates at the end of the 37th week from number, this applies also to Czech nationals of the employee’s basis of assessment). Obligations of the recipients of benefits: the commencement of entitlement to the due to the same original system of birth to present proof of the facts that are maternity benefit. identification number assignment). (The daily assessment base for the relevant for granting or terminating the determination of sickness benefits is the entitlement to sickness benefits, their If she is a single mother and she gives quotient of the sum of the assessment payments, or their amount; birth to two or more children at the 80 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 81
same time, and takes care of at least Filing the claim: by a medical practitioner of a health Moreover, there exists a 3rd pillar pension two of these children, her entitlement to using the form of the Social Insurance establishment, submitted by means regime, which is completely voluntary and maternity benefits terminates at the end Agency – Maternity Benefit Application, of the employer. is meant as an additional old‑age pension of the 43rd week from the commencement certified by a medical practitioner saving. Some employers might opt to partly of entitlement to the maternity benefit. of a health establishment. Equalisation benefit contribute to these savings on behalf of an employee. The period of entitlement to maternity Obligations of a recipient of benefits: Equalisation benefit – the female employee benefits for an insured person who has to present the proof of the facts relevant is entitled to this kind of benefit, if redeployed Pension insurance entitles the insured given birth to a child may not be shorter for the awarding or withdrawing of for another job, as the work performed person to the following benefits: than 14 weeks from the commencement of the entitlement to maternity benefits, before is prohibited to pregnant women or, the old‑age pension, entitlement to maternity benefits and may entitlement to their payments, and their according to the medical report threatens the early old‑age pension, not be terminated earlier than six weeks amount; her pregnancy, and the work she was the invalidity pension, from the date of birth. to state his/her birth identification transferred to provides for a lower income survivors’ pensions (i.e. widow’s pension, number in the application, to notify the without her fault, compared to the income widower’s pension, orphan’s pension). If another insured person is taking Social Insurance Agency of the birth she had earned before her redeployment. care of a child, such a person shall identification number of the child. The amount of the equalisation benefit is Old‑age pension be entitled to maternity benefits 55 % of the difference between the monthly as from the date of assuming the care Nursing benefit assessment basis and the assessment An insured person is entitled to an old‑age of the child for a period of 28 weeks basis from which the female employee pension if he/she has been insured for an from the commencement of entitlement Sickness insurance entitles an insured pays premium for the sickness insurance old‑age pension for at least 15 years and to maternity benefit (or, if assuming care person for a nursing benefit – an income in separate calendar months after being has reached the minimum age required for of two or more children, until the end to be paid during the nursing of a sick transferred to another job. The equalisation entitlement to an old‑age pension (the so of the 31st week from the commencement child, sick husband/wife, sick parent or benefit is provided for a calendar month, called retirement age). The retirement age of the entitlement to maternity benefits) sick husband’s/wife’s parent or taking even if the female employee was transferred in the SR is at present 62 years both for care of a child under 10 years of age that is to another job or secondment was finished men and women. In case of women the The maternity benefits are at the rate placed under quarantine. In addition, the during the calendar month. retirement age is also dependent on the of 60 % of the daily assessment base, or of nursing benefit can be paid also when the number of children she has brought up. the probable daily assessment base, they pre‑school or school establishment, that are provided from the 1st day of entitlement, the child normally attends, are dissolved Pension insurance If a mobile worker has contributed to only to one insured person. or placed under quarantine, or in case An employee pays old‑age insurance in the insurance schemes of various Member
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities of sickness or quarantine of the person amount of 4 % of the basis of assessment States (EU, EEA, Switzerland) during Conditions of entitlement: who otherwise takes care of the child or (usually equal to the gross wage). his/her period of occupation all records pregnancy or the care for a new‑born child; in the case of hospitalisation of that person The employer on behalf of the employee of his/her contributions are held in each valid sickness insurance; due to expected delivery. pays the old‑age insurance of 14 % of the separate Member State. Upon reaching being covered by sickness insurance basis of the assessment of the employer. retirement age, the periods of insurance for not less than 270 days during the Benefits for nursing a sick relative are in individual States are aggregated and last two years preceding childbirth at the rate of 55 % of the daily assessment There are two “forms” of mandatory insurance he/she is entitled to draw the appropriate (delivery); base, or of the probable daily assessment scheme – 1st pillar/tier (contributions to the proportion of old‑age pension from each after termination of sickness insurance base, they are provided from the 1st day state Social insurance agency, concurrent Member State in which he/she has worked – being in the period of entitlement to of the care to the end of the care, at regime) and 2nd pillar (old‑age pension for a period of more than 12 months. sickness benefits or within the duration maximum for 10 days. It is provided for the saving in pension management companies, of the protective period. The duration same case only once and only to one capitalising regime). The total of 18 % of The proportion is given by the ratio of years of the protective period for a female insured person. old‑age insurance is equally distributed of insurance in the given state to the total insured person, whose sickness to both the pillars. At the moment insurance period of the worker before insurance terminated at the time of her Filing the claim: participation in the 2nd pillar is subject to reaching the retirement age. An insurance pregnancy, is eight months. using the form of the Social Insurance one’s own choice within a limited time period of less than 12 months will be Agency – Application for benefit for period after the commencement of first taken over by his/her final country of nursing a sick relative, certified/issued old‑age insurance payments. employment. 82 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 83
Different legal framework applies to An insured person is entitled to invalidity Widow’s pension represents 60 % to old‑age pension or died due to a working workers who have contributed to pension pension if he/she becomes disabled, has of the insured deceased person’s pension. injury or an occupational disease. schemes of states with which there accumulated the correct number of years Those entitled to this kind of benefit are the exists a bilateral agreement on social of the superannuation scheme and on the widow whose husband was receiving the The amount of orphan’s pension security. (Slovak Republic has concluded day on which the invalidity occurs does old‑age pension, the early old‑age pension represents: 40 % of the insured deceased international agreement with the not qualify for entitlement to an old‑age or the invalidity pension as of the day of his parent/adopter’s old‑age or invalidity following states outside EEA: Canada, pension or early retirement pension. death, or satisfied conditions of the old‑age pension to which the deceased parent/ Croatia, Quebec, Soviet Union (as of pension entitlement as of the day of his adopter was entitled or would be entitled; 1960), Ukraine, Yugoslavian Republic For an insured person who has become death, or achieved the number of years of or 40 % of the insured deceased parent/ (as of 1957). The principle of territoriality disabled as a result of an occupational the pension insurance necessary to qualify adopter’s early old‑age pension to which is exercised here, i.e. the old‑age pension accident or disease, the condition regarding to the invalidity pension as of the day of his the deceased person was entitled by the is paid off by the state, on the territory the number of years in the superannuation death, or died due to the working injury or day of his/her death. of which the insured person permanently scheme is automatically deemed to have the occupational disease. The entitlement resides. List of bilateral treaties can be been satisfied. ceases: The entitlement to orphan pension ceases found at www.socpoist.sk/index/index. on contracting of marriage, on reaching the age of 26 years of the php?ids=1550, only in Slovak). An insured person is considered to be on the day, validated by a court ruling, dependent child; or on the day, validated disabled if, due to long‑term poor health, according to which the widow caused by a court, ruling according to which the The application for drawing the old‑age his or her capacity for work is reduced by the death of her husband by a wilful dependent child caused the death of his/her pension is submitted through the authorised more than 40 % in comparison with healthy criminal act. parent or adopter. social insurance body based on the natural persons; long‑term poor health permanent residence. (If having permanent means the health condition that causes Widower’s pension represents 60 % residence in the SR, the application shall be the reduction in work capacity and that, of the insured deceased person’s pension. Accident insurance submitted to the appropriate office of Social according to the knowledge of medical Those entitled to this kind of benefit If an employee has suffered health damage Insurance Agency to draw benefits also science, is expected to last longer than one are the widower whose wife was receiving or died during the performance of work or from other states of EEA and Switzerland year. the old‑age pension, the early old‑age in direct connection therewith as a result and from those with which there exists pension or the invalidity pension as of the of an accident (industrial accident), the a bilateral treaty). Hence usually only one If a mobile worker is considered to be day of her death, or satisfied conditions of liability for damage thus incurred lies with application is required. disabled by the legal regulations of the the old‑age pension entitlement as of the the employer with whom the employee had SR, but has not accumulated the correct day of her death, or achieved the number an employment relationship at the time Early old‑age pension number of years of the superannuation of years of the pension insurance necessary of the industrial accident. The employer is
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities scheme to be entitled for the invalidity to qualify to the invalidity pension as of obliged to compensate an employee who A new kind of benefit introduced by benefit in the SR, the periods of insurance the day of her death, or died due to the suffers harm at least to the extent to which the Act on Social insurance is the early in individual States (EU, EEA, Switzerland; working injury or the occupational disease. he is liable for the harm. old‑age pension. The qualifying condition is states with which there exists a bilateral The entitlement ceases: achievement of at least 15 years of pension agreement on social security) are taken on contracting of marriage, An employee who, as a result of an insurance, lacking two years to reach into consideration and are aggregated. on the day, validated by a court ruling, industrial accident or occupational disease the retirement age at most, and satisfying The insurance periods are figured in only according to which the widow caused is acknowledged as being temporarily the condition of reaching the pension amount on the basis of an official confirmation by the death of his wife by a wilful criminal unfit for work, is entitled to an accident equal to 1.2 multiple of the subsistence the relevant national authority (e.g. a social act. supplement (as a salary compensation) minimum level for a natural person by insurance company); where European from the first day of temporary incapacity the day of claiming the benefit. coordination regulations apply, E205 form Those entitled to an orphan’s pension are for work, if he or she receives sickness is required. the dependent child after a deceased parent benefits under a sickness insurance Invalidity pension or an adopter who as of the day of his/her scheme. The accident supplement is paid Survivors’ pension death was receiving the old‑age pension, in respect of individual days. Invalidity insurance entitles the insured early old‑age pension or invalidity pension, person for the following benefits: Survivors’ pension insurance includes or as of the day of his/her death completed The employee who sustains an injury invalidity pension, survivor’s benefits widow’s pension, widower’s pension and the number of pension insurance years to is entitled to injury annuity payments (widow, widower, orphan pensions). orphan’s pension. qualify to the invalidity pension, or qualified if, as a result of industrial accident or 84 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 85
occupational disease, his or her capacity achieved at least two years of insurance relationship duration for the past 18 months 2. municipality/region will complete to perform the work that he or she had related to the labour relation concluded preceding the employer’s insolvency. medical and social evaluation performed before the injury has been for a definite period, or two years of the The benefit is paid as a lump sum. procedures; issue a medical and social diminished by more than 40 %. voluntary insurance, and at the same report, outlining reliance on the social time was not insured for the purposes service; and make a decision about being The injured employee is entitled to of unemployment due to other activity as Social assistance reliant on the social service, a lump‑sum compensation if, as a result an employee. If you are in a difficult social situation, 3. Slovak citizens or foreign nationals who of an industrial accident or occupational you may be eligible to use so called social have been identified as being reliant disease, his or her capacity to work has The entitlement ceases after a six‑month services. Social services are governed by on the social service will request the been reduced by not more than 40 %, but period has elapsed (in certain cases a new Act 448/2008 Coll. on Social Services municipality/region to provide the social more than 10 %, even if the entitlement to a four‑month elapsed period) from the that has replaced the former system service. injury annuity has lapsed, provided that commencement of the benefit entitlement, of so‑called social assistance. the reduction of capacity for work is at or as of the day of granting the old‑age least 10 %. pension, the early old‑age pension and The aim of provision of social services State social support the invalidity pension due to incapacity is prevention, solution, or mitigation of State social support concerns mainly The entitlement to start drawing to perform gainful activity by more than unwanted social situations of individuals; to family benefits that are financed from the compensation for occupational accidents 70 %. The unemployment insurance does support an individual to lead self‑sufficient state budget, through which the and diseases shall be applied within not relate to the natural person who had life and prevent social exclusion, and to state is directly involved in certain three years of such entitlement or the been granted the old‑age pension, the early secure the conditions for the satisfaction social situations (e. g. birth, nutrition and entitlement will lapse. old‑age pension or the invalidity pension of an individuals’ basic life needs. education of the child, death of family due to a decrease in performing gainful members and the like.) Entitlement Employers must take out compulsory injury activities by more than 70 %. Social services include the following: to family benefits is not subject to the insurance (as from the date on which they social services to secure necessary payment of contributions, or the financial start employing at least one employee), The unemployment benefit is assessed on conditions for satisfaction of basic life situation of the authorised persons. but insurance benefits go to the employee a daily basis. The amount of unemployment needs in accommodation facilities, concerned or an authorised person. benefit equals 50 % of the daily assessment social services to support families with One‑off state social benefits multiplied by the number of days in the children (especially help with child care), funeral contribution Further information is available at: month. The daily assessment basis to social services to resolve unwanted child birth contribution (for parents http://ec.europa.eu/eures, determine the unemployment benefit social situations arising due to with permanent residence in Slovakia, www.socpoist.sk (in Slovak only), depends on the amount of unemployment heavy health impairment, unwanted currently 151.37 €) Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities www.employment.gov.sk/DIS insurance contributions completed by medical state, or reaching pension parental benefit – which can be paid (in Slovak only). the person in past two years. age (caretaking service, transport out at the same time as the recurrent service, guide service, reading service, parental benefit to both parents or if The insuree is not entitled to interpretation service, arranging one of the parents receives mother’s Unemployment insurance unemployment benefit disbursement personal assistance, lending gadgets), benefit (for parents with permanent The system of social insurance also in the period when being granted: sickness social services with use of or temporary residence in Slovakia, includes the system of unemployment benefit, nursing benefit, maternity benefit telecommunications technologies, currently 158.67 €) insurance. The insuree is entitled to or parental allowance. support services. a one‑off allowance to cover the needs unemployment benefit on condition he/she of a child in a foster care had unemployment insurance for at least Social services can be used by Slovak a child birth supplement – only with the two years (i.e. 730 days) within the past Guarantee insurance citizens, foreign nationals – EU/EEA first child (678.49 €) three years before being included into the This is the insurance applicable in the citizens, and foreign nationals with registry of unemployed job seekers. case of an employer’s insolvency. Entitled permanent or temporary residence permit. Recurrent state social benefits to this type of benefit is the employee child allowance Those entitled to the unemployment whose employer has become insolvent When using the social service, the recurrent parental allowance benefit are those insurees who within the and as a result cannot provide employees’ beneficiaries should proceed as follows: a contribution for the parents to whom past four years before being included into entitlements. The benefit is provided for 1. Slovak citizens or foreign nationals will three or more children were born and/ the registry of unemployment job seekers a three‑month period on condition of labour ask for evaluation of being reliant on the or to whom twins were born repeatedly specific social service, within two years 86 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 87
care‑giver contribution downloaded from www.employment.gov. Major applicable legislation: insurance covers the following benefits recurrent contribution to cover sk/DIS/dis/index.php?SMC=1&id=328 Act No 580/2004 Coll. on Health in full or to a partial extent, depending on the needs of a child in a foster care (in Slovak only). insurance, specific conditions: foster‑parent benefit Act No 577/2004 Coll. on the Scope diagnostics, treatment and preventative Child benefit of health care provided on the basis care, outpatient and inpatient care Here are the selected types of family of public health insurance. including rehabilitation, compulsory benefits in more detail: Child benefit is a state social benefit vaccination, provision of drugs, medical whereby the state contributes Obtaining health insurance is obligatory aid and dietetic food. Spa treatment can Parental allowance to the upbringing and maintenance and proof of health insurance is required be provided upon the recommendation of dependent children by eligible persons already when a foreigner is applying for of a doctor, where such care is an inevitable Parental allowance is a state social benefit (e.g. parents, foster parents). the residence permit. Before you leave, component of the treatment procedure. whereby the state makes a contribution make sure that you are covered by your towards enabling the parent to take In general, a dependent child is defined current health insurance, or take out Generally, every individual with permanent proper care of a child of up to three years as a child receiving compulsory education, insurance in Slovakia. What you have residence in the Slovak Republic must have of age, or up to six years of age in case of at maximum up to the age of 25, on to do will depend on your personal mandatory public health insurance. a child with long‑term poor health, or up condition he/she is in continuous education situation, the length of your stay and the to six years of a child placed in substitute for the future profession and until he/she terms of your current health insurance. A third country national (outside EU/EEA/ parental care, not longer than three years has graduated from second level of higher Depending on your situation, you will Switzerland) becomes mandatorily insured from the date on which the decision of education. either continue to be covered by the health after obtaining permanent residence the court to place the child in substitute insurance of your home country, or you permit in Slovakia and fulfilling conditions care became final. Those eligible to claim Only one adult person is entitled to will fall under the regime of the Slovak stipulated by the Act on Health Insurance. parental allowances are the parents of the allowance for the same child. Republic. In both cases, you will need the child (i.e. his/her father or mother) or to make specific arrangements for your Mandatory public health insurance does persons providing substitute parental care. Entitlement to child allowance arises upon continued health coverage. not apply to an individual with permanent the fulfilment of the following conditions: residence in Slovakia, if he/she: Entitlement criteria: care of the child by the eligible person, Health insurance depends on your Is employed abroad and is covered 1. Proper care by the parent of at least one permanent or temporary residence of economic status – whether you are by health insurance in the country of child; the eligible person in the Slovak Republic, employed, self‑employed, unemployed, employment; 2. Permanent or temporary residence permanent or temporary residence of the a student, posted abroad, working across Performs a self‑employment activity of the eligible person in the Slovak dependent child in the Slovak Republic. the border from where you live, and so abroad and is covered by health
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities Republic; The amount of allowance is 21,25 €/month. on. You may not choose which country insurance abroad; 3. Permanent or temporary residence you will be covered by. The country Is staying abroad long‑term (more than of the child in the Slovak Republic. Eligible persons may claim child benefits by responsible for your healthcare depends on six months) and is covered by health filing a written application with the office your employment situation or your place insurance in this country. The amount of parental allowance of labour, social affairs and family having of residence, not nationality. is 190.10 € per calendar month (as of competence for the eligible person’s place An individual who does not have 1st January, 2011), in case of twins it is of permanent or temporary residence. There are two types of health insurance permanent residence in Slovakia must also 237.60 €, in a case of triplets 285.10 €. If the Application form can be downloaded from in Slovakia: have mandatory public health insurance parent is entitled to maternity/equivalent www.employment.gov.sk/DIS/dis/index. mandatory public health insurance (if he/she is not covered by health insurance benefit, the amount is decreased by the php?SMC=1&id=328 (in Slovak only). individual (commercial) health in another EU/EEA member state or amount of this benefit. insurance in Switzerland), if such person is: 4.4.3 Health insurance Employed with an employer whose seat Eligible persons may claim a parental Mandatory health insurance or permanent establishment is in Slovakia; allowance by filing a written application The health insurance system in Slovakia A self‑employed person in Slovakia; with the Office of labour, social affairs and is handled separately from other social Holders of mandatory health insurance are A student from another EU member family having the competence for that security aspects and falls under the entitled to health care provision and all state or a foreign student studying person’s place of permanent or temporary competence of the Ministry of Health related services in compliance with the Act in Slovakia according to an international residence. Application form can be (www.health.gov.sk, in Slovak only). on Health Care Insurance. Public health treaty; 88 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 89
A dependent family member who was one. In case it is obtained from a foreign Every health insurance company issues stays such as e.g. in case of tourists, born to the insured person in another EU insurance provider, the contract has to the insured a public health insurance students, posted workers (see the section member state. stipulate its coverage on the territory of the card, which the insured presents when on Social security). Slovak Republic and it has to be translated to visiting a doctor. When changing the health Obligation to have public health insurance Slovak language by an official translator. insurance company, the insured has to Health insurance and employment in Slovakia according to the Act on Health return the insured’s card to the issuing in Slovakia Insurance does not always mean the Health insurance providers insurance company within eight days. insured person must also be the insurance When a foreign national takes up payer. According to the Act on Health There are 3 health insurance companies However, the entitlement to health care employment with an employer who has Insurance, the insurance payers are: providing public health insurance in Slovakia: itself, which stems from health insurance, permanent residence in the Slovak Republic Employee (partially participates Všeobecná zdravotná poisťovňa, a. s. is not dependent on presenting the insured or commences to perform self‑employment on payments with the employer); (www.vszp.sk, in Slovak only) person’s card but only on the existence of activities in the Slovak Republic, he/she Self‑employed person (mostly pays DÔVERA zdravotná poisťovňa, a. s. insurance. Therefore, if a foreign national becomes subject to statutory public health the insurance alone, unless otherwise (www.dovera.sk, in Slovak only) needs to see a doctor and he/she has not insurance in the SR. The Slovak health stipulated by law); Union zdravotná poisťovňa, a. s. yet been issued the card, it is sufficient to insurance company of his/her choice will Employer (partially participates (www.union.sk, in Slovak only) show a confirmation from the insurance issue a Slovak health insurance card after on payments for the employee); company proving his/her insurance. registering. The state (for PhD students under 30 years). You can find information for foreigners on mandatory public health insurance European Health Insurance Card Levies into statutory health insurance Commercial health insurance on the English version of Všeobecná funds of employees zdravotná poisťovňa, a. s. website For entitlement to medical treatment on Insurance Insurance Basis of Monthly advance Commercial health insurance holders are dedicated to foreigners (www.vszp. the basis of health insurance in another charge charge of assessment payment (EUR) entitled to health care services stipulated sk/showdoc.do?docid=399) and Union Member State (EU, EEA, Switzerland), of an employer (EUR) in the agreement with the Health Insurance zdravotná poisťovňa, a. s. section an EU/EEA/Swiss national must present employee on behalf max. (for 2011) (%) of an max. employee employer Authority. Commercial health insurance for foreigners (www.union.sk/information- a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) (for 2011) is provided in compliance with special for-foreigners.html). to the health care provider. (EHIC shall employee (%) legislation (Civil Code). The scope of the be issued at your request by a health 4 10 2 233.50 89.34 223.35 health services is stipulated individually Information about commercial insurance insurance company to which you pay health either as basic health care available to companies in Slovakia is available on the insurance premiums.) In such a case, the foreigners who cannot have the public health following websites (on these websites you treatment of an EU/EEA/Swiss national will Dependants of EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities insurance; or supplementary insurance (more can find a list of insurance companies with be covered by a Slovak health insurance coming to stay in the Slovak Republic than standard health care) or combination their contact data): company to the same amount as a Slovak should also register in a Slovak health of both previously mentioned. Slovak Association of Insurance national, provided the relevant physician insurance company and have the Slovak companies: www.slaspo.sk/en has concluded a contract with at least one health insurance card. However, each case Commercial health insurance is compulsory Slovak Insurer’s Bureau: www.skp.sk health insurance company. The European is treated individually because the terms for everyone, who doesn’t fall into the Insurance agencies portal: Health Insurance Card ensures necessary vary from case to case. For details it is scope of the public health insurance. www.poistovne.sk (in Slovak only). medical treatment within the system highly recommended to contact your home This concerns researchers who are not of public health care, including treatment health insurance company before arrival employed and they perform activities Health insurance card related to chronic diseases, if such need in the Slovak Republic. on a basis of stipend and students who arises, to enable the holder to continue are not EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, don’t Every insured person proves participation his/her stay without having to return home EU/EEA nationals employed in the have permanent residency in the Slovak in health insurance by the insurance card, for treatment. It covers all age groups, with Slovak Republic who reside in another Republic, and don’t study on the basis of the so‑called ”health insurance card”. The a maximum unlimited financial amount. Member State are entitled (together international agreement binding for the insurance card issued by any health insurance On the other hand it does not cover the with their dependant family members) to Slovak Republic. company providing public health insurance individual contribution of the insured comprehensive health care (full coverage) serves to identify the insured is in contact person to treatment, transport to the (contrary to EHIC) in the country of Commercial health insurance can be obtained with individual branches of the insurance country of origin or repatriation. EHIC is residence as well as in the Slovak Republic. from any provider, not necessarily a Slovak company or medical facilities in Slovakia. mostly applied for short‑term temporary The entitlement is applied by means of 90 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 91
the E106 form, which can be obtained from a higher education institution in the SR, been insured in one of these countries, information (EESSI system, see below) health insurance companies in the Slovak its international status – proved by the and their family members. will be launched and will be fully Republic after submission of the home Ministry of Education, Science, Research Nationals of non‑EU countries, legally operational by May 2012. country residence certificate and copies of and Sport of the SR, to the chosen health residing in the territory of the EU, who the labour contract in the Slovak Republic. insurance provider. have moved between these countries, Electronic Exchange of Social Security After obtaining the E106 form, EU/EEA and their family members. Information (EESSI) national shall submit it to a health insurer In other cases, the student has to arrange at the place of residence and register. his/her health insurance himself/herself The main principles: One of the main innovations introduced by If his/her family members live together with a commercial provider. Health 1. A person is covered by the legislation the new Regulations is the obligation for with the employee, their entitlement to insurance for foreigner in the scope of one country at a time so he/she only countries to only exchange social security health care will be reviewed according to of public health insurance is provided by pays contributions in one country. The information by electronic means (Art. 4 the regulations of the health insurance Union poisťovňa, a. s. (www.union.sk/ decision on which country’s legislation Regulation 987/2009). A system providing company at the place of residence. information-for-foreigners.html). applies will be made by the social a common secure framework is being set security institutions. You cannot choose. up: the EESSI system (Electronic Exchange EU/EEA nationals working in the Slovak 2. A mobile person has the same rights of Social Security Information). It is Republic whose dependant family 4.4.4 Social security and obligations as the nationals of expected to play a major role in facilitating members live in another Member State (including health insurance) the country where he/she is covered. cooperation between institutions and must apply to a selected Slovak health coordination within EU This is known as the principle of equal leading to a better enforcement of the insurance company in order to draw an treatment or non‑discrimination. rights of the citizens, e.g. benefits being E109 form. This form must be submitted Although there is no single European social 3. When somebody claims a benefit, granted in a speedier way. Paper E‑forms to a health insurance company at the security system, the EU has set common previous periods of insurance, work or will no longer be necessary. In some cases, place of residence of the dependent family provisions in the field of social protection. residence in other countries are taken they will be replaced by the so‑called members. On the basis of the E109 form This includes the coordination of national into account if necessary. “portable documents”. the dependant family members will be social security schemes without seeking to 4. If a person is entitled to a cash benefit registered for health insurance in their harmonise national regulations. EU law has from one country, he/she may generally More information: home country and they will be entitled to laid down common rules and principles to receive it even if he/she is living Website of DG Employment, Social Affairs comprehensive health care in that country be observed by national local authorities in a different country. This is known as and Inclusion of the European Commission while all expenses will be covered by the and social security institutions that do the principle of exportability. http://ec.europa.eu/social/main. selected Slovak health insurance company. not replace, but complement, the social jsp?catId=849&langId=en Their home health insurance company is security provisions of Member States. As from 1 May 2010, new Regulations
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities in charge of issuing a European Health on modernised coordination Insurance Card. The EHIC entitles them to All countries are free to decide who is to (Regulations 883/2004 and 4.5 Taxation obtain necessary medical treatment also be insured under their legislation, which 987/2009) apply. The essential changes are: in EU/EEA states different from the state of benefits are granted and under what More people can benefit from the The tax authority in Slovakia is the their residence, i.e. in the Slovak Republic conditions. The EU provides common rules coordination rules: it now covers not Tax Directorate of the Slovak Republic too (for more detailed information on EHIC to protect your social security rights when only workers and their families but also (www.drsr.sk/drsr/english) and it has see above). moving within Europe (EU 27 + Iceland, people who are currently out of work, a network of 102 local Tax Offices. Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland). not yet in work or no longer working. International students Its scope also extends to new benefits Tax system in Slovakia: (also PhD students) These rules apply to: such as paternity and pre‑retirement Direct taxes Nationals of the EU, Iceland, benefits, so as to adapt to developments – Income tax (private individuals and A foreign student, coming to Slovakia to Liechtenstein, Norway or in social security legislation at national legal entities) : 19 % study within a programme arising from an Switzerland who are or have been level. – Local tax (paid directly to municipal international treaty that is binding for the insured in one of these countries, Another essential role of the new authorities) SR is subject to statutory health insurance, and their family members. regulations is to establish instruments Indirect taxes the SR being the payer of such insurance. Stateless persons or refugees residing and structured procedures to improve – Value added tax (VAT) : 20 % The student shall submit the necessary in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, services to users. A new network for the – Excise tax (e.g. on alcohol, tobacco, documents certifying his/her study at Norway or Switzerland, who are or have electronic exchange of social security mineral oil) 92 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 93
Double taxation agreements 4.5.1 Direct taxes financial resources from grants provided of occupation and has to be declared in the on the basis of international treaties, by In order to make the taxing of migrant country of tax residence, where he/she is Income tax which is the Slovak Republic bound, persons easier and to avoid double a taxpayer with unrestricted tax liability. benefits from health and social insurance taxation, the Slovak Republic has In the case of states, where no double The major Slovak legislation is the Act etc., including old‑age savings, concluded bilateral agreements with taxation agreement exists, income from No. 595/2003 Coll. on income tax. per diems up to the amount set by law, other countries. The Slovak Republic abroad, that has been taxed in the country financial amount spent by the employer continuously extends the geographical of occupation other than SR, is exempted Usually the income is taxed in the country for training of an employee related to area covered by taxation agreements, as from taxation in the SR. (An authentic of occupation, unless otherwise provided. the employment, of June 2010 there are taxation agreements certificate of taxation of income must be Hence if you are employed in the SR, the financial contribution of the employer with 62 countries. The list of countries with submitted.) Naturally, this is relevant only income tax is deducted from the wage to the board of an employee up to the double taxation agreements with Slovakia to tax payers with unrestricted tax liability according to the Slovak legislation, unless amount set by law. is available on the website of Ministry in SR. a bilateral agreement for avoiding double of Finance (www.finance.gov.sk). taxation states otherwise. Tax residence Tax return (declaration of taxes) Countries, to which the double taxation The tax period is one year. Income tax is It is of great importance to determine agreements apply: After the taxation period (that is one paid monthly in the form of a tax advance the of the person in order calendar year) the annual clearing of taxes tax residence Australia Greece Mexico Sweden – 19 % from the tax base which is the to clarify the tax liability to the state is made by filing the tax return (declaration Austria Hungary Moldova Switzerland gross wage minus all the contributions of occupation and/or residence. of taxes), and only then the final level to compulsory insurance funds and Belarus Iceland Mongolia Syria of non‑taxable amount is calculated a non‑taxable sum (exempt from taxation). Unrestricted tax liability applies in case of Belgium India Montenegro Tunisia dependent on the whole‑year wage. Bosnia‑ The non‑taxable sum is applicable also to a person with permanent residence in the Indonesia Netherlands Turkey foreigners. Slovak Republic or when the person stays -Herzegovina The deadline for submission of the tax on the territory of the Slovak Republic at Brazil Ireland Nigeria Turkmenistan return is 31 March every year (with the The tax base can be reduced by a spouse least 183 days (6 months) in a calendar year. Bulgaria Israel Norway Ukraine possibility of prolonging the period upon United allowance (if he or she is without own Such a taxpayer pays tax from the income Canada Italy Poland justified request). Only afterwards the income or the income is lower than the received in the Slovak Republic as well as Kingdom tax overpayment or tax in arrears can be set limit and lives in the same household). from his or her income from abroad. China Japan Portugal United States determined. The resulting tax can be reduced by a child Croatia Kazakhstan Romania Uzbekistan Korea, Russian allowance (dependent child, e.g. attending On the other hand, a taxpayer with Cyprus In the case of tax residents with unlimited Republic of Federation
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities school). However, these conditions hold restricted tax liability is a person who is liability who have income also from Czech only for foreigners with unrestricted tax not a taxpayer with an unrestricted tax Latvia Serbia abroad, it is necessary to state all the liability (see below). liability, or who often stays in the SR only Republic incomes in the tax return form and provide for the purpose of studies or enters Slovakia Denmark Libya Singapore documents proving the payment of the tax Estonia Lithuania Slovenia Tax exceptions daily (or occasionally) only for the purpose abroad. Authentic certificate(s) of taxation of employment in SR. The taxpayer with Finland Luxembourg South Africa of income(s) must be submitted. When the The following incomes are exempt from a restricted tax liability pays tax only from France Macedonia Spain taxpayer cannot obtain these documents taxation: income received in the Slovak Republic for Germany Malta Sri Lanka within the deadline (31 March), he/she has (for exact wording see the Act No. 595/2003 his/her period of employment in Slovakia. to ask the Tax Office to prolong the period Coll. on income tax) As stated before, tax residence may be to file the tax return. scholarships provided from the state further specified in bilateral double taxation The taxation conditions therefore vary budget (including PhD scholarships), agreements. upon the country of “origin“ of a person – if The tax return form and other tax related or by higher education institutions or there is a bilateral agreement, and what its documents can be downloaded from similar benefits provided from abroad, The decisive points for determining tax provisions are. the website of the Slovak Tax Directory financial support of foundations, residence are: residence, personal home, (www.drsr.sk), although in Slovak only. non‑for‑profit organisations, etc. centre of vital interest – closer personal or Double taxation agreements also state the except for remuneration for carrying out economic relations, habitual abode, being method of elimination of double taxation, However, it is always recommended to employment or business activities, a national of one of the states. in case the income was taxed in the country consult the appropriate tax authority with 94 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 95
any tax issues arising from a researcher’s Official information and also completed application (download Office hours: Monday, Wednesday state of permanent residence prior to documents/forms to download are in Slovak at http://www.minedu.sk/ and Thursday from 8:30 to 11:30 and 12:30 commencing work in the SR. available on the websites of the Ministry index.php?lang=sk&rootId=869), to 14:00 of Finance (www.finance.gov.sk) copy of ID or passport, Local tax and of the Tax Direcorate (www.drsr.sk). copy of diploma, apostilled, officially Further information is available on the The information provided is available also translated into Slovak language verified website of the Centre for Recognition Local taxes are within the competence of in English, but most of the information and by a notary, of Diplomas www.minedu.sk. municipal assemblies and are therefore all the documents/forms are in Slovak only. transcript of records officially translated different in every village and town. Local into Slovak language verified by Recognition of primary taxes include: real estate tax; dog tax; taxes a notary, and secondary education for using public spaces; accommodation 4.6 Recognition of diplomas fee stamp of 99.50 € or fee stamp of 33 € tax; vending machines tax; non‑gambling (when the document has already been According to the legislation in force, slot machines tax; taxes to drive into The Slovak Republic has its own rules, recognized by another EU Member State the foreign qualifications giving access to and/or park a motor vehicle in the historical which are applied for recognition different from the State of origin of the higher education are recognised by District centre of a city; nuclear devices tax; local of education from abroad. It is within document). Education Authorities as a part of the payments for communal waste and small the scope of competence of Ministry of general State administration in Slovakia. quantities of construction waste; and motor Education, Science, Research and Sport In this case the decision of the Ministry At present, there are eight regional vehicle tax. of the Slovak Republic. There is a Centre for shall be issued within 60 days since the authorities. The regional school authority Recognition of Diplomas, organisationally application was filed. has competence to make the decision on a part of the Ministry, and part of the the recognition of education and is given 4.5.2 Indirect taxes international network of UNESCO, ENIC For academic purposes the decision lies according to the place of residence. (European Network of Information upon the higher education institution that Value added tax (VAT) Centres) and NARIC (National Academic provides similar study programmes (if no The subject of nostrification is a document Standard VAT in Slovakia is 19 %. During Recognition Information Centres). such HEI exists, the decision is taken by the on education issued by the foreign school, the time period from 1 January 2011 until the Ministry). There are bilateral agreements which is comparable by its concentration last day of the calendar year in which the The procedures of recognition differ with the Czech Republic, Croatia, Hungary, and content of teaching to the primary European Commission (Eurostat) publishes according the purpose of recognition: Germany, Poland, and Romania, providing school or corresponds to the study of an data stating that the Slovak Republic’s 1. for the purpose of work that the recognition by the HEI is done equal or similar subject in a secondary current Government Deficit is less than 3 %, (Act No. 293/2007 Coll. on recognition automatically (without any additional school. the standard tax rate on goods and services of professional qualification), examinations).
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities represents 20 % of the tax base. 2. for the purpose of further education The application for recognition is (Act No. 596/2003 Coll. on state PhD degree from an EU/EEA/Swiss HEI submitted to the Centre for Recognition Only a very special category of products like administration of education and school is also recognised automatically for of Diplomas (download application medicaments, pharmaceutical products, self‑government and Act No. 131/2002 both purposes, an application has to be form at http://www.minedu.sk/index. medical and diagnostics aids and also Coll. on higher education institutions). filed to the Ministry and it shall issue php?lang=en&rootId=69). books, brochures and similar printing the decision within 30 days from when products (music printing works) are subject Recognition for the purpose of work the application is filed (download form The holder of a foreign certificate should to reduced VAT of 10 % (complete list it is important if the profession to be in Slovak at http://www.minedu.sk/index. attach to the application for nostrification: download at http://www.finance.gov.sk/ performed is regulated or not. In the case php?lang=sk&rootId=869). a) a verified copy of certificate en/Default.aspx?CatID=317). of a non‑regulated profession, the decision (notary‑certified copy and translation lies with the employer (The employer can Contact: into Slovak); Excise tax ask for the opinion of the Ministry that The Ministry of Education, Science, b) unless the certificate directly shows should provide an answer within 30 days Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic successful completion of the entire Special terms apply to excise tax on beer, since the application was filed). In the case Centre for Recognition of Diplomas study, a verified list of subjects with the wine, alcohol, tobacco and tobacco of a regulated profession, the decision lies Stromová 1, 813 30 Bratislava, Slovak Republic number of teaching hours in individual products, and mineral oils. with the Ministry. It is necessary to present, E‑mail: [email protected] years of study (transcript of the to the Centre for Recognition of Diplomas, Tel.: +421/2/59 37 43 12 curricula, notary‑certified copy and the following documents: translation into Slovak); 96 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 97
c) a document from the foreign school purposes (continuing in higher education the goods for further sale. To determine Currency restrictions on the extent of practical training in the in the SR) the credentials are considered as whether tobacco and alcohol are for The import and export of local and foreign case of a profiling component of the equal without nostrification. The regional personal use, each country can set guide currency is permitted. When entering the education and training, and is not school authority shall issue within levels. In other words, if a person carries SR (EU) from third countries or departing shown in curricula (notary‑certified copy 15 days from delivery of the application a larger quantity of these goods, he/she the SR (EU) to third countries, exported, and translation into Slovak). a statement, in which it indicates may be asked to prove that they are imported money or other financial the document on education with which intended for personal use and to justify resources (bonds, cheques, trade drafts; The Centre for recognition issues the submitted document is equivalent. their purchase. The guide levels may not precious metals and stones) above the the recommendation to the applicant. be lower than: 800 cigarettes, 200 cigars, equivalent of 10 000 € must be declared Contact: 1 kg of tobacco, 10 litres of spirits, 20 litres on an official form (Annex 1 of Act 199/2004 The applicant delivers the recommendation The Ministry of Education, Science, of fortified wine (such as port or sherry), Coll. – Customs Act) at the corresponding of the Centre together with the appropriate Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic 90 litres of wine (of which, a maximum customs office. Amounts in other currencies documents to the District Education Centre for Recognition of Diplomas of 60 litres of sparkling wine), 110 litres follow exchange rates given by the National Authority according to the applicant’s place Stromová 1, 813 30 Bratislava, Slovak Republic of beer. Bank of Slovakia for the particular day. of residence. E‑mail: [email protected] Tel.: +421/2/59 37 43 12 Outside the EU/EEA it is possible to import Financial resources sent by mail to or from In the case that the study in the foreign Office hours: Monday, Wednesday and or export duty‑free the following quantities: a third country (outside EU) in the amount school only partially corresponds to the Thursday from 8:30 to 11:30 and 12:30 to 14:00 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 exceeding 1000 € should also be declared. curricula of secondary schools in Slovakia, cigars or 250 gram tobacco; or the graduate did not attach all the Further information is available on the 1 litre of spirit/alcohol over 22 % vol. or More information: required documents mentioned above, website of the Centre for Recognition 2 litres of alcoholised vine or sparkling Customs Administration of the Slovak the responsible authority could lay down of Diplomas www.minedu.sk. wine; Republic http://www.colnasprava.sk/wps/ the obligation to take a supplementary 2 litres of non sparkling wine; portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_28O examination. The supplementary Perfume – 50 grams; examination is meant to verify the 4.7 Import of goods Eau de toilette – 250 ml; knowledge and skills of the graduate Other up to the value 175 € in subjects, or in their parts, which were Within the EU/EEA/Switzerland import (the limitations are lowered to 90 € not studied by the applicant in a foreign and export of goods is not limited in any for travellers under 15 years of age). school and which have a direct relation way, which also applies to goods for private to the graduate’s profile or the field of purposes. It is therefore possible to import Transport of pets is permitted only with the
Formalities – how to be ready for the national authorities study pursued. A graduate who is not an unlimited amount of goods for private respective veterinary certificate. a Slovak national does not have to take purposes from other EU‑member countries a supplementary examination in Slovak to Slovakia. There is no obligation to pay Weapons can be exported only with Language and Literature. tax in Slovakia, as the VAT and excise tax firearms certificate. on goods (where applicable) purchased for The District Education Authority private purposes has already been included For exporting goods basically the same determines the secondary school in which in the purchasing price in the respective limits are valid as for import. Art objects the graduate shall take the supplementary country. and objects of historical value underlie/are examination, the content and the date liable to licence and custom duty. of examination. When certain goods that are subject to excise tax are purchased (alcohol, alcoholic A different procedure could apply when beverages and tobacco products), it is credentials were issued by a foreign school the purchaser who has the obligation of the State with which an agreement has to transport the products purchased been concluded on the mutual recognition in another EU‑member country. It is not of documents on education by which the allowed to have the goods shipped, and Slovak Republic is bound. In this case no other person is allowed to transport the recognition is necessary for academic the goods. It is also forbidden to provide 98 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 99
including sections like: Real estate mortgage financing, loans, exchange and 5. Daily life in Slovakia agencies (Realitné kancelárie); Hotels even insurance services. List of banks is in Bratislava (Hotely v Bratislave); available at the website of Slovak Banking In this chapter you can find useful You can find accommodation yourself, Hotels outside Bratislava (Hotely mimo Association www.sbaonline.sk/en/banking- information regarding your daily life too – properties for rent are advertised Bratislavy) sector/banks-in-slovakia. in Slovakia. The topics are various in specialised advertising publications, www.slovakspectator.sk – see the and listed according to the alphabet. daily newspapers, regional press and on advertising part of the newspaper also Banks are usually open from Monday to Information covers topics that may arise the Internet. You can rent a flat directly providing information in English on Friday from 8:00 to 17:00/18:00. Some upon your arrival or during your stay from an owner or through a real estate renting property. branches remain open for longer, and some in Slovakia and it should help you find agency. www.roommates.sk – individual are open on Saturdays and in some cases your way through these situations – be advertising website for accommodation on Sundays (only in shopping centres). it finding a flat or finding your way from When renting a flat, enquire whether rentals (craig’s list style, in Slovak) You should consult the website of the the airport. Also approximate prices of the price covers just the rent or if it also appropriate bank.
Daily life in Slovakia different services are mentioned, so you can includes utility costs (electricity, gas, Short-term accommodation calculate the costs of your stay in advance. heating, water, phone bills, etc.). Rents www.reality.sk – a nationwide search How to open an account This chapter gives a picture of what life are normally paid monthly and deposits database (also in English), regularly in Slovakia may be. For more information of a few months’ rent are common. It is, updated rental offers by more than 400 To open a bank account you need ID or follow the links that are posted by each of course, necessary to sign a lease. real estate agencies, a list of real estate passport. The opening of the account is for section or do not hesitate to contact local agencies with contact phone numbers, free. The fee per month for the maintenance EURAXESS Services Centres. Rental prices depend on several factors: websites and E‑mails of the account could vary depending on city/town (in the capital city and www.realityserver.sk – search database whether it is in Euros or in foreign currency. 5.1 Accommodation university towns rents are usually (in Slovak only) Closing of the bank account is for free, but higher), www.greenpages.sk – a webportal the bank can set a fixed amount account and housing locality within a city/town “Green Pages“ providing information balance up to 7 €. Ask your future employer or your host (centre/outskirts), and contact phone numbers, organisation if it is possible to provide you type of flat/house (tower block, brick websites and E‑mails of several Credit & debit cards with accommodation. Some universities house, new building, flat/house that has firms and organisations in Slovakia, and research institutes have their or has not been renovated, etc.), including sections like: Real estate If you have a current account in euros, own accommodation facilities for their furnishings, agencies (Realitné kancelárie); Hotels a debit card is mostly issued within employees. If your future employer/host size of flat (number of bedrooms, surface in Bratislava (Hotely v Bratislave); a service package. A credit card is issued cannot provide you with accommodation, area etc.). Hotels outside Bratislava (Hotely mimo independently of an account. Major credit ask them for other possibilities Bratislavy) cards (American Express, Diners’ Club, or recommendations. Useful links www.slovakspectator.sk – see the Visa, Eurocard/MasterCard) and debit advertising part of the newspaper cards (Maestro, Cirrus, Eurocheque cards Long‑term accommodation also providing information in English and Visa Electron, Eurocard/MasterCard) www.reality.sk – a nationwide search on renting property. may be used for cash withdrawal from database (also in English), provides www.ambiente-apartments.com automatic dispensers (ATM) as well as for regularly updated rental offers from – apartment rentals in Bratislava payments in hotels, restaurants, shops more than 400 real estate agencies, and petrol stations. Credit cards can also a list of real estate agencies with contact 5.2 Banks and currency be used to obtain currency. For further phone numbers, websites and E‑mails information on commercial acceptability www.realityserver.sk – search database There are many banks, usually members of and other services consult your card issuer. (in Slovak only) international corporations offering ordinary www.greenpages.sk – a webportal banking services such as current accounts Travellers’ cheques “Green Pages“ providing information and subaccounts, domestic and foreign and contact phone numbers, payments, electronic banking, debit and Thomas Cook, American Express, Visa, websites and E‑mails of several credit cards, cheques, deposit products, Swiss Bankers, Citybank travellers’ cheques firms and organisations in Slovakia, securities, private banking, unit trusts, are accepted in banks and at exchange 100 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 101
offices. Exchange rate charges are at least Internet Cafes (“internetová kaviareň” City codes in Slovakia: 0.73 €, while sending a letter of the one per cent of the nominal cheque value. in Slovak) are widespread and not confined same class to the rest of the EU‑member Banská Bystrica 048 To avoid additional charges, travellers are to large towns. For more information you countries costs 0.93 €. Sending a 50 g letter Bardejov 054 recommended to take travellers’ cheques can either browse the Internet or check to the rest of the world costs 1.13 €. in Euros, US Dollars or Pounds Sterling. Yellow Pages (“Zlaté stránky” in Slovak Bratislava 02 www.zlatestranky.sk). Dunajská Streda 031 At the website of the Slovak post office You can also use the services of Western Humenné 057 www.posta.sk/en you can find ZIP codes Union, operating in the Slovak Post Office General Phone Numbers: Košice 055 of Slovak towns and information (including throughout the Slovak Republic. Emergency calls: Levice 036 pricelists); information about other services provided at the post office, e.g. you can pay General Emergency 112 Liptovský Mikuláš 044 your utility bills, receive cash on delivery Currency and exchange rate Ambulance 155 Lučenec 047 consignments, buy lottery tickets, get film Martin 043 Currency in Slovakia is the euro (since Fire 150 developed, receive payments, make phone Police 158 Michalovce 056 Daily life in Slovakia 1 January 2009). Denominations: 1 euro calls, buy phone and mobile phone cards, (1 €) = 100 cents (100 c), banknotes issued Town police 159 Nitra 037 and, of course, send telegrams, faxes and in 500 €, 200 €, 100 €, 50 €, 20 €, 10 € Nové Zámky 035 mail. and 5 € denominations; coins in 2 € and Enquiry services (usually paid): Poprad 052 1 € and 50 c, 20 c, 10 c, 5 c, 2 c and 1 c Považská Bystrica 042 Directory enquiries – information about telephone 1181 5.4 Cuisine denominations; numbers in Slovakia Prešov 051 International directory enquiries – information 12 149 Prievidza 046 Food The National Bank of Slovakia website about telephone numbers abroad Rožňava 058 “Národná banka Slovenska” (www.nbs.sk) Slovak food is made using a variety Info Assistant – Practical information for everyday 12 111 Senica 034 offers updated information on exchange use of traditional and European products Spišská Nová Ves 053 and interest rates, and other financial data. Exact time 12 110 and ingredients. In shops, supermarkets Topoľčany 038 Note the exchange rate of a commercial Wakeup calls 12 125 or hypermarkets you can buy all kinds Trenčín 032 bank may vary slightly. National calls mediated by an operator 12 102 of vegetables and fruit in season, meat, Trnava 033 milk products, pastry, bread, mineral and International calls mediated by an operator 12 131 Zvolen 045 spring water, and sweets. You can also buy 5.3 Communications Žilina 041 fresh home‑grown fruit and vegetables and and post offices How to make phone calls some other products at openair markets. International country code of the Slovak Internet connection Republic: 00 421 Post offices Cuisine Slovakia currently has a large number of full‑area ISP’s that offer wired Mobile operators on the area of the Slovak Post offices are at your service in all villages There are many restaurants in Slovakia broadband Internet connections, Republic: Orange, T‑Mobile, Telefónica O2. and provide bank services (Poštová banka), ranging from cheap to expensive. For for example: Slovakia is well covered by mobile phone too. The post offices are open from Monday a drink it is more usual to go to a pub, T‑Com (www.t-com.sk) – the major networks, which enable calls also from to Friday 8:00 – 18:00 and on Saturday to where you can also have a meal. Larger telecommunication company, some peaks of Tatras. Only very distant 13:00. The main post offices in larger towns cities usually have restaurants with Orange Slovensko (www.orange.sk), areas are without signal. or shopping malls are open daily to 20:00 national and international cuisine, the most UPC (www.upc.sk), h. It is possible to buy post stamps for post common being Italian, Chinese, Balkan and and others. In towns it is possible to use public phone cards and letters directly in the post offices also Czech and Hungarian. Beer and wine cells/booths, which accept coins or phone or in some newspaper stands. (domestic and foreign) are good and usually They offer a range of connections, from cards. The cards can be purchased in post consumed with both lunch and dinner. ADSL/ADSL2+ to “Fibernet”. ADSL or offices or some newspaper stands. A 50 g letter sent within Slovakia by 2nd ADSL2+ is available in almost every town class costs 0.33 €, sent by 1st class and Lunch is the main meal and Slovaks are in Slovakia. registered ones cost 1.03 €. The postage more used to eating out for lunch than for for sending a 50 g letter by 2nd class from dinner. Most restaurants in town centres Slovakia to a neighbouring country costs have special lunch offers (“denné menu” 102 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 103
in Slovak, usually consisting of soup and smoked pork sausage that often contains beer. The popular brands are Zlatý Bažant, Performances are staged every day except a main course), which are cheaper than mushrooms, and sometimes plums, Corgoň, Smädný mních, Martiner, Topvar, Sunday (opera and ballet) or Monday other meals served there. especially at Christmastime). Another Šariš, Gemer. (drama). In April 2007 a new building on typical Slovak soup is made of beans and the bank of the Danube became the home Restaurants are open from Monday root vegetables such as carrots and parsley. More information of SND in addition to the historic building. to Sunday from morning till night, and Sometimes, smoked pork is added. Most http://slovakia.eunet.sk/slovakia/cuisine/ also in small towns restaurants usually traditional national dish served as main bonappetit/ Other state institutions are The State stay open later. Stores and restaurants course is “bryndzové halušky”, i.e., gnocchi/ Theatre (“Štátne divadlo”) in Košice open 24 hours a day have a sign reading dumplings topped with “bryndza” and fried (www.sdke.sk, in Slovak only) The State “nonstop”. bacon. It is usually the least expensive 5.5 Culture and media Opera and Ballet (“Štátna opera a balet”) menu item and sometimes it is listed in the in Banská Bystrica (www.stateopera.sk) Theatre, opera, ballet Unless the menu states that service is dessert section. Another traditional dish and Nová scéna (New Stage) in Bratislava included, tipping is expected. 5 – 10 % is is “strapačky s kapustou”, dumplings with The theatre network consists of 4 state specialising in musical repertory
Daily life in Slovakia a standard tip in a restaurant with waiter cabbage and sometimes bacon. As the funded professional theatres, 13 theatres (www.novascena.sk, in Slovak only). service. Waiters usually give the customer most common dessert one can always under the competence of self‑governing the total of the bill and the customer, as he have sweet pancakes with jam, farmers’ regions and municipalities, more than Private theatre offering different types hands over the money, says how much he is cheese and raisins and whipped cream or 40 independent theatres established by of performances is the Aréna theatre paying inclusive of tip. In restaurants and chocolate. private owners/legal entities and 4 minority in Bratislava (www.divadloarena.sk). bars it is usual to round up the price, the tip language theatres throughout in Bratislava, being roughly 10 %. Cheese and cheese products are other Banská Bystrica, Trnava, Nitra, Komárno, Theatre performance usually begins typical Slovak specialties. Besides already Zvolen, Martin, Žilina, Košice, Prešov, at 7 p.m. (at 6 p.m. on Sunday) and whilst More information and lists of catering mentioned “bryndza” the most popular are Spišská Nová Ves and Rožňava. The list tickets can be bought an hour before the places can be found at www.menu.sk the “korbáčik” – cheese strings interwoven of theatres with addresses can be found at start, it is advisable to reserve them several (in Slovak only), www.zlatestranky.sk, into fine braids, “parenica” – steamed www.theatre.sk (website of the Theatre days before performance at the ticket www.obedovat.sk (in Slovak only), cheese strips woven into snaillike curls, Institute). office of the respective theatre or on‑line www.greenpages.sk. “oštiepok” – smoked sheep cheese shaped at www.ticketportal.sk. There is also the in wooden moulds. The oldest professional theatre is possibility to buy a season ticket. Traditional cuisine The Slovak National Theatre (“Slovenské The most popular wines are národné divadlo” – SND) in Bratislava Music The main ingredients that have shaped those from the Tokaj, (www.snd.sk). It comprises drama, opera traditional Slovak cuisine are potatoes, Small Carpathians, Nitra, and ballet sections, each with a permanent Classical music sauerkraut, pork, poultry, “bryndza” Topoľčany and Záhorie professional company, with a central In the first half of the 19th century, (a cheese made from sheep’s milk), and regions. In winter, try theatrical stockist providing sets for a national musical tradition began to pulses. The number one national soup is the mulled wine. Young all productions. The SND is a repertory develop around Slovakia’s impressive folk sauerkraut soup (hearty cabbage soup with wine (“burčiak”), is company with a season running from the heritage. Romantic as well as modern Slovak available in the first half beginning of September to the end of June. music has drawn from both classical and of September, and is usually the subject traditional folk styles. Among romantic of harvest festivals. Hubert, the Slovak composers, the most important are the sparkling wine and “Karpatské Brandy compositions of Ján Levoslav Bella, Viliam Špeciál” (the Carpathian Brandy Special) Figuš‑Bystrý who layed the foundations of are also highly rated. Typical Slovak the first Slovak opera, and those of Mikuláš liqueurs are Demänovka and Horec, from Schneider‑Trnavský and Mikuláš Moyzes the region of the High Tatras.“Slivovica” who had merit in lyric songs and ballads (plum brandy) and“borovička” (the juniper creation. Well‑known works from the 20th berry brandy, gin) are popular Slovak century include the symphonic compositions aperitifs. To the uninitiated, these drinks of Alexander Moyzes, and the operas of will appear quite strong. Let’s not forget Eugen Suchoň (1st Slovak national opera that Slovakia also produces excellent “Krútňava” (The Whirlpool)) and Ján Cikker. 104 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 105
Today, music is one of the most significant Modern Music 16th century. The Habans, also known as cinemas in the Aupark, Eurovea and aspects of the Slovak culture. Some of the The Music Centre Slovakia (“Hudobné Anabaptists, were a religious sect that Polus shopping centres (Palace cinemas most renowned orchestras are The Slovak centrum”, www.hc.sk) provides information arose during the Reformation. The pottery www.palacecinemas.sk). Most films Philharmonic Orchestra of Bratislava on classical and modern music. A search is characterised by gentle curves and bright bear the original soundtrack with (“Slovenský filharmonický orchester for various music events can be run on colours, particularly blue and yellow. subtitles; some films have Slovak mesta Bratislavy”, www.filharm.sk) and website www.kulturne.sk (in Slovak Contemporary Modra’s Majolic factory is dubbing. Cinema programmes Košice (www.sfk.sk), The Symphonic only). At www.ticketportal.sk you can a direct descendant of this tradition. You are published on towns’ websites Orchestra of Slovak Radio (“Symfonický find information on concerts and buy can also order Majolic through website (www.kamdomesta.sk, www.kulturne.sk orchester Slovenského rozhlasu”, www. tickets. If you prefer the club scene with www.majolika.sk/indexenglish.html. both in Slovak only) and in newspapers. slovakradio.sk/symfonicky-orchester-sro) live performances there are many options and The Bohdan Warchal Slovak Chamber within different genres. Examples of folk architecture, such as Slovak newspaper in English Orchestra (“Slovenský komorný orchester wooden churches and brightly painted Bohdana Warchala”, www.filharm.sk). Traditional folk art houses, are to be found throughout the The Slovak Spectator
Daily life in Slovakia country. Interesting open‑air museums (www.slovakspectator.sk), an independent Musical performances usually begin at presenting folk architecture can be found English language newspaper, is published 7 p.m. and whilst tickets can be bought in Martin (The Museum of the Slovak every week. It includes information on an hour before the beginning, it is advisable Village – “Múzeum slovenskej dediny”), politics, the economy, business, daily to reserve tickets several days before at Bardejov Spa, Zuberec, Vychylovka in Nová life, and cultural events, as well as the ticket office of the respective orchestra. Bystrica, and Pribylina. If you are interested advertisements. Tickets may be also reserved online in“living museums” (folk architecture at www.ticketportal.sk. reservations), you should visit villages like A newsportal THE DAILY.sk Čičmany, Vlkolínec, Špania dolina, Ždiar, (www.thedaily.sk) offers daily Slovak news Traditional folk music Podbiel, or Sebechleby. in English for all foreigners living, working The most impressive ensembles or just visiting Slovakia. performing traditional dance and Wooden church architecture is unique, music are The Slovak Folk Ensemble especially by its construction and interior There are many varieties of local (“Slovenský ľudový umelecký kolektív” design. All parts had to be made of wood newspapers and journals. You can also – SĽUK, www.sluk.sk, in Slovak only) Folk art and crafts, which include and no nails were allowed. In the north buy or subscribe to foreign newspapers and Lúčnica (www.lucnica.sk). Most woodcarving, fabric weaving, glass east of the country you may find mostly and journals or buy them at newsstands. towns have their own folk festivals with blowing and painting, pottery, ceramics churches of Greek Catholic or Orthodox dances, local costumes and food. These production, blacksmithing, have a long denomination. Most of them date back to Košice 2013 – European Capital of Culture tend to be held throughout summer until tradition. The tradition of folk art and the 17th and 18th Century. One of the oldest the end of September. The biggest one crafts has been handed down through the churches is the Roman‑Catholic wooden The city of Košice was awarded the title takes place in Východná in July every year generations and is nowadays supported church in Hervartovo near Bardejov dating of the European Capital of Culture (www.nocka.sk, updated information mainly by ÚĽUV – The Centre for Folk Art back to the 15th century. Wooden churches for 2013. You can find more information in Slovak only). Production (www.uluv.sk/en). The Centre and towers in the centre of the country about this award and related events sells traditional products but also organises were mostly of Roman‑Catholic and at www.kosice2013.sk/en. exhibitions, artistic workshops “The ÚĽUV Evangelical denominations. Craft school“ both for youth and adults, some of which are officially accredited More information: by the Ministry of Education, Science, www.museum.sk Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic. Cinema Slovakia became famous for Majolic pottery (“majolika“) already in the 14th century Cinemas (“kino” in Slovak) can be found (especially in the town of Modra). Mora’s in every town. Film clubs are popular ceramic tradition was heavily influenced and can be found in all university towns. by the influx of Haban craftsman in the In Bratislava, there are also multiplex 106 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 107
Brilliant Stars Intl. Kindergarten First stage of primary education: Secondary school‑leaving 5.6 Day care for children (www.brilliantstars.sk) age 6 to 10 certificate British International School Bratislava Primary education is provided by the first The general prerequisite for admission In the Slovak Republic preschool education (www.nordanglia.com/bratislava) stage of primary school (Grades 1 to 4). to higher education study is a secondary is provided until the beginning of Galileo School Enrolling in primary education enables school‑leaving certificate issued after compulsory school attendance. Preschool (www.galileoschool.sk) pupils to continue to the second stage passing the secondary school‑leaving education in the Slovak Republic is both Fantasy Kindergarten of primary school or to the initial four years examination taken upon completing 13, non‑institutional and institutional. (www.skolka-fantasy.sk) of the 8‑year secondary school. exceptionally, 12 years of study. Non‑institutional form of preschool Forel International School The school‑leaving certificates are education takes places in the family. (www.forel.sk) issued by most of the mentioned types Second stage of primary education: Institutional form of preschool education Little Angel Playschool of secondary schools. Higher education age 10 to 15 is carried out in preschool establishments (www.littleangel.sk) institutions organise as a rule the represented by kindergartens and special QSI International School of Bratislava Second stage of primary education is admission examination.
Daily life in Slovakia kindergartens. Preschool establishments (http://bratislava.qsischool.org) provided by the second stage of primary admit children between the age of three Unity House Montessori Kindergarten school (Grades 5 to 9) or by the initial four There are public, private and church and six years. Exceptionally, it is possible (www.unity-house.sk) years of the 8‑year secondary schools. schools. Public primary and secondary to admit children from the age of two Wonderland English‑German In most cases, it is necessary to pass an schools are established by self‑governing years. (Preschool education in preschool Kindergarten entrance test to be accepted to secondary bodies (municipalities, cities and establishments is also provided to (www.wonderland.sk) education institution. self‑governing regions) and education is children over six years of age, whose provided free of charge. In private and start of compulsory school attendance In Košice: some church schools a school fee is paid. Secondary education: was postponed or whose fulfilment QSI International School of Košice Special schools and special educational age 15 to 19 of compulsory schooling was additionally (http://kosice.qsischool.org) establishments (attended by children postponed.) Secondary education is provided by with physical and mental disabilities, Some of these establishments also provide the following types of schools: talented and very talented children) are Preschool establishments are set up with primary and even secondary education. 1. Gymnasium (secondary grammar set up under the authority of the state varied lengths of operation such as half‑day, school): Provides general secondary (regional authorities). full day, weekly and continuous operation. For the list of kindergartens see the education and prepares for further A prevailing number of kindergartens database of the Institute for Educational study at universities and other higher There are some schools which aim to are operating full day, usually from 6:00. Information and Prognosis (www.uips.sk, education institutions. develop specific pupils’ talents, such as to 18:00. according the parents’ needs. in Slovak only). Look for regional education 2. Specialised secondary school: Prepares sports schools, schools for mathematics, (“Regionálne školstvo”) available students for vocational education foreign languages, etc. State kindergartens are the norm, however, databases (“Dostupné databázy”) list of and for study at higher education church and private kindergartens are school facilities (“Register škôl a školských institutions. Tuition takes place five days a week, from becoming quite common too. In most zariadení v Slovenskej republike); 3. Conservatories: Conservatories are Monday to Friday. School year lasts from kindergartens education is provided search for “materské školy“ in the field a special type of professional school September 1 to June 30, July and August in Slovak though there are several of “druh školy“ – school type. that provides courses in such fields as being summer holiday. The tuition usually kindergartens (mostly state ones) with Singing, Music, Dancing and Dramatic begins at 8:00 and contains from four to Hungarian and Ukrainian as communication Arts. eight lessons per day. A standard lesson languages aimed predominantly at 5.7 Education system 4. Vocational secondary school: Prepares takes 45 minutes and is mostly followed children of those nationalities. There exist students for occupations requiring by a 10‑minute break; lunch break being a few kindergartens providing education 5.7.1 School education higher level vocational education and longer. in English; they are private organisations. a School Leaving Certificate. Students Primary education lasts for nine years may continue their studies at higher The number of pupils in primary‑school In Bratislava they are: and is compulsory. It usually starts in the education institutions. classes is around 23 pupils per class, Babyland age of 6. It is divided into two stages of four 5. Apprentice training centres: however this number rises over 30 in upper (www.babyland-centrum.sk) and five years respectively: Prepare school‑leavers for professional grades. activities. 108 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 109
There is a general grading scale: at the website of The Institute for Bilingual secondary schools – French 1 – excellent Educational Information and Prognosis – Name Town Address URL 2 – very good www.uips.sk – guidelines for the search http://bsgjgt.php5.sk Gymnázium J. G. Tajovského Banská Bystrica J. G. Tajovského 25 3 – good are given below.) (in Slovak only) 4 – satisfactory http://gmet.edupage.org Spojená škola Metodova Bratislava 2 Metodova 2 5 – unsatisfactory (fail) There are also bilingual schools – certain (in Slovak only) subjects are taught in Slovak, others Nám. L. www.gmrske.sk Gymnázium M. R. Štefánika Košice In the majority of schools, Slovak language in a particular foreign language. In Slovakia Novomeského 4 (in Slovak only) is the language of instruction. However, there are bilingual secondary schools Gymnázium Ľ. Štúra Trenčín 1. mája 2 www.glstn.sk there are also schools with instruction in which selected subjects are taught www.gbza.edu.sk Gymnázium bilingválne v Žiline Žilina T. Ružičku 3 in other language than Slovak – Hungarian in English, German, French, Spanish, (in Slovak only) mostly, but also Ukrainian, Bulgarian, Italian or Russian language. There are German, English. (See the list of schools about 30 bilingual schools.
Daily life in Slovakia Bilingual secondary schools – Spanish Name Town Address URL Bilingual secondary schools – English www.gmkbb.sk Gymnázium M. Kováča Banská Bystrica Mládežnícka 51 Name Town Address URL (in Slovak only) www.gymhron.sk Gymnázium J. Hronca Bratislava 2 Novohradská 3 www.gjh.sk Gymnázium F. G. Lorcu Bratislava 214 Hronská 3 Bilingválne gymnázium C. S. Lewisa Bratislava 5 Beňadická 38 www.bilgym.sk (in Slovak only) www.gympaba.sk www.gpm.edupage.org Gymnázium Bratislava 5 Pankúchova 6 Gymnázium Košice Park mládeže 5 (in Slovak only) (in Slovak only) www.evlyceum.sk Gymnázium Nitra Párovská 1 www.gymparnr.edu.sk Evanjelické lýceum Bratislava 5 Vranovská 2 www.gmhtrstena.sk (in Slovak only) Gymnázium M. Hattalu Trstená Železničiarov 278 www.gymcadca.sk (in Slovak only) Gymnázium J. M. Hurbana Čadca 17. novembra 1296 (in Slovak only) Information on studies in Spanish in Slovakia can be found at Evanjelické gymnázium J. A. Komenského Košice Puškinova 3 www.gjak.sk www.educacion.gob.es/exterior/sk/es/home/index.shtml (in Spanish only). Spojené evanjelické školy Liptovský Mikuláš Komenského 10 http://esslm.sk www.sukromnaskola.sk/sgpo Súkromné gymnázium Prešov Solivarská 28 (in Slovak only) Bilingual secondary schools – Italian http://gbas.edupage.org Name Town Address URL Bilingválne gymnázium M. Hodžu Sučany Komenského 215 (in Slovak only) Gymnázium L. Sáru Bratislava 4 Ladislava Sáru 1 www.gymls.edu.sk Evanjelické gymnázium Tisovec Jesenského 836 www.egt.sk Súkromné gymnázium Žilina Oravská cesta 11 www.ssag.sk Bilingual secondary schools – Russian http://oakuktt.edupage.org Obchodná akadémia Trnava Kukučínova 2 (in Slovak only) Name Town Address URL www.einsteinova.sk Gymnázium A. Einsteina Bratislava 5 Einsteinova 35 (in Slovak only) Bilingual secondary schools – German www.sgbsnina.meu.sk Bilingválne gymnázium Snina Snina ZŠ Budovateľská 1992/9 Name Town Address URL (in Slovak only) http://bs.gymbilba.sk Gymnázium Bilíkova Bratislava 42 Bilíkova 24 Gymnázium, lýceum = secondary grammar school (in German) Obchodná akadémia = secondary school of economics and administration Obchodná akadémia I. Karvaša Bratislava 5 Hrobákova 11 www.oaikba.sk Spojená škola = merged school with two organisational units: secondary grammar school and primary www.ssdtpp.sk/-biling-sport school Spojená škola D. Tatarku Poprad D. Tatarku 14 (in Slovak only) www.gympd.sk Gymnázium V. B. Nedožerského Prievidza Matice slovenskej 16 (in Slovak only) http://oakuktt.edupage.org Obchodná akadémia Trnava Kukučínova 2 (in Slovak only) 110 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 111
There are also private international/ usually educational establishments where clubs, after‑school activities, babysitting The Jesuits founded Košice University foreign language/schools pupils of the first stage of primary schools in the evenings and at weekends etc.) in 1657. In 1770, the enlightened, absolutist (primary, secondary), e.g.: can spend their free time after classes. ruler, Maria Theresa, established the first British International School Bratislava Attendance is voluntary. Their activities A babysitting charge depends on a type school of mining in the world – the Mining (www.nordanglia.com/bratislava) are aimed at developing pupils’ talents, of babysitting (regular, occasional, Academy in Banská Štiavnica. Forel International School preparing for lessons on the next day and in a school facility or in the household), (www.forel.sk) organising sports activities in general. on a length of babysitting (short‑time Higher Education Institutions Galileo English‑Slovak Primary School or long‑time babysitting), as well as (www.galileoschool.sk) Students can attend afterschool clubs run on a number of children. The price is Higher education institutions (HEIs) are QSI International School of Bratislava by schools themselves, devoted to various approximately from 3 EUR to 5 EUR per third‑level educational, scientific and arts (http://bratislava.qsischool.org) fields of interest, e.g. science, ecology, hour. institutions. The major task of HEIs is the QSI International School of Košice drama classes, music, sport, photography provision of higher education and creative (http://kosice.qsischool.org) etc. Main enrolment/registration days for For further information, contact directly scientific research or creative artistic activity.
Daily life in Slovakia a particular after school activity/programme particular agencies or consult their Children of foreigners with residence are usually held in September. For further websites. A majority of agencies can also Higher education institutions are (temporary, permanent or tolerated) information contact the appropriate school. provide a babysitter who can also speak classified by the nature and scope of their in Slovakia can attend kindergartens, a foreign language (usually English, activities into university type of HEIs elementary or secondary school in their Apart from that, students can also attend German or French). and non‑university type of HEIs. place of residence or according to their language classes specially designed a) The university type of higher education parents’ choice. Registration for a particular for their age and interests, leisure and For a few examples of these see institutions provides education in the school is carried out after an arrangement hobby centres, or primary schools of art. http://directory.spectator.sk. study programmes of all the three with the headmaster of a selected school. (When looking for primary schools of art levels with a significant portion of study search for the term “základná umelecká 5.7.2 Higher education programmes of the second level and The list of schools and education škola” in a standard search engine). study programmes of the third level. establishments in Slovakia is available at The study programmes are carried Oldest Slovak Universities the website of the Institute for Educational There are so‑called centres of free time out in connection with activities of Information and Prognosis (www.uips.sk) (“Centrá voľného času” – CVČ) in all The first university on the territory higher education institutions in the – “PUBLIKÁCIE, ČASOPISY” (publications, the regions of Slovakia. The list of them of present‑day Slovakia, Academia field of science, technology or art, magazines) > “Siete škôl, adresáre, can be found on the webpage of Iuventa Istropolitana (1465–1491), was established and in compliance with the current prehľady” (School networks, databases, (www.iuventa.sk), under the section in Bratislava during the rule of Matthias state and development of such fields. overviews) > “Prehľady škôl” (Schools of Children and Youth (“Deti a Mládež” Corvinus (1458–1490). In 1635, Peter The term of “university” may only be overviews). It is possible to search for in Slovak), look for “CVČ in SR” or use again Pazmany established Trnava University used in the name of a university type information according to different criteria the standard search engine. (which was relocated to Budapest in 1777). of higher education institution. (but only in Slovak). b) The non‑university type of higher Many children and youth organisations education institutions provides Contact phone numbers of kindergartens, providing after‑school activities higher education mostly in the study elementary, secondary schools, and are associated with the Youth Council programmes of the first level. universities can be found on of Slovakia (www.mladez.sk, in Slovak only). www.zlatestranky.sk. Many schools have Based on founding and funding there are their own websites. Contact details and Au‑pair service 3 types of HEIs: phone numbers of private schools with public higher education institutions instruction in a foreign language are also If you need to babysit your child, you – public institutions of higher education available at http://directory.spectator.sk. can use the services of one of the many are established by law. They are agencies which arrange babysitting for financed mostly by the government. After‑school activity a fee (for both healthy or sick children, They are statutory and self‑governing whole‑day or just afternoon babysitting institutions. At present, there are Primary or secondary schools’ classes are – with the possibility of being prepared 20 public institutions of higher usually held from 8:00 to 13:30. There are for classes or accompanied to children’s education, comprising 9 more 112 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 113
or less traditional universities, programmes will be at three levels. It is The grading is on a scale of A–FX: completion the higher education 5 universities of technology, 3 higher possible that an HEI will join the first two A – excellent = 1 institutions award the following academic education institutions of art and levels of higher education into a single B – very good (above‑average degrees: music, 1 university of economics, whole. achievements) = 1.5 “doktor prírodných vied” (abbr. “RNDr.”) 1 university of veterinary medicine C – good (average achievements) = 2 in natural science study programmes. and 1 agricultural university. The first level is the Bachelor study D – laudable (acceptable achievements) = 2.5 “doktor farmácie” (abbr. “PharmDr.”) state higher education institutions, programme. E – satisfactory (achievements fulfil only in pharmacy study programmes, – state institutions of higher education the minimum criteria) = 3 “doktor filozofie” (abbr. “PhDr.”) (3 HEIs) are military, police and The study programmes of the second level and FX – unsatisfactory – fail (achievements do in social science and art science study medical schools. They are established those of the first two levels of higher not fulfil even the minimum criteria) = 4 programmes. by law and governed by the state education joined into a single whole are: “doktor práv” (abbr. “JUDr.”) in law through the corresponding ministries Master study programmes, Degrees awarded in the SR study programmes, of the government. The state HEIs are Engineer study programmes, Higher education institutions award “doktor pedagogiky” (abbr. “PaedDr.”)
Daily life in Slovakia fully financed from the state budget. Doctoral study programmes. following academic degrees: in teacher training and sports study private higher education institutions. programmes, – private institutions of higher The study programme of the third level is 1st level – Bachelor “doktor teológie” (abbr. “ThDr.”) education (10 HEIs) need to have the PhD study programme and specialised (comprising app. 180 credits) in theological study programmes except the state approval issued by the training in medicine. “bakalár“ (abbr. “Bc.”). for the study programmes in the field Government of the Slovak Republic. of Catholic Theology. They are established and financed All study programmes must be accredited 2nd level – Master by nongovernmental institutions by the Ministry of Education, Science, (comprising app. 120 credits) or founders. Most of the private Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic. “magister” (abbr. “Mgr.”), in the 5.8 Electrical appliances higher education institutions field of art “magister umenia” and computers provide education on bachelor The academic year begins on September 1 (abbr. “Mgr. art.”), level only, specialising in the of the current year and ends on August 31 “inžinier” (abbr. “Ing.”) in technical, In Slovakia 230 V/50 Hz electrical fields of economics, business, of the following year. It is composed of agricultural and economic fields of system is used and appliances management, public administration, 2 semesters (the winter semester lasts Engineer’s programmes, and in the field are designed for a round pin plug law, international relations, from September to January and the summer of architecture and town‑planning the and receptacle (socket) with male regional development, medical semester lasts from February to June). academic degree of “inžinier architekt” grounding pin. For safety and to and social work. The organisation of academic year is set by (abbr. “Ing. arch.”), avoid damage to electrical appliances, it the statute of the faculty or statute of the “doktor medicíny” (abbr. “MUDr.”) is important to bring equipment designed Also foreign higher education higher education institution. in the field of human medicine, for the above‑mentioned frequency and institutions established and situated “doktor stomatológie” (abbr. “MDDr.”) voltage, and use dual voltage equipment or on the territory of another EU Member The teaching process includes various – dentists, voltage converters/transformers. Moreover, state or EEA State or Switzerland may forms of instruction such as lectures, “doktor veterinárskej medicíny” plug adapter will also be needed if your provide higher education in accordance seminars, exercises, laboratory work, (abbr. “MVDr.”) in the field of veterinary device is constructed for other standards. with the law of their country of origin on the projects, practical training, consultations, medicine. territory of Slovakia once they have been etc. The credit system following the rules For those bringing US standard equipment, granted official approval by the Ministry of the European Credit Transfer System 3rd level – PhD (doctoral) an earthed (grounded) step‑down of Education of SR. (ECTS) was introduced in 2002 for all levels “philosophiae doctor” (abbr.“ PhD.”), transformer is necessary for US computers, and forms of higher education study. The “artis doctor“ (abbr. “ArtD.”) in the field monitors and printers. Even with the most You can find the comprehensive list of HEIs student‘s standard load is expressed by the of art. expensive transformers, one should always in Slovakia with their websites under the number of credits: 60 credits per academic monitor the electrical supply. Most printers section Research in Slovakia (page 21). year and 30 credits per semester. The Examina rigorosa will need an adapter but not all adapters institution of higher education determines The holders of the academic degree of are recommended for printers. Higher education institutions will provide the total number of credits required for “magister” may take examina rigorosa, higher education within the framework of the due completion of the study in its which includes also the defence of accredited study programmes. The study respective stages. a rigorosa thesis. After its successful 114 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 115
pleso”, “Modré pleso”, “Zamrznuté pleso” “Súľovské skaly” – rocky massif Michael’s Gate or Primatial Palace, Old 5.9 Hiking and tourism and “Zelené pleso” are amongst the most formed into shapes of towers, cones, Town Hall, Grassalkovich Palace – the With its varied terrain, the Slovak Republic picturesque. Many waterfalls can also be needles, gates, a unique phenomenon seat of president. You can visit also is a hiker’s paradise. It is criss‑crossed with found here, of which the most celebrated in the territory of Western Carpathian surrounding towns and villages, make valleys, basins, lowlands, and hills. It is are “Obrovský” and “Kmeťov” waterfalls. Mountains, a trip to hills like “Malé Karpaty”, cycling a country full of natural beauty. The biggest 350 km of marked tourist paths are “Muránska planina” – plateau with expeditions along the Small Carpathian and best‑known mountains are Tatras available for hikers. Different ski resorts a unique flora and fauna, including wild Wine Route (“Malokarpatská vínna (“Tatry”) – a national symbol. with ski lifts, chair lifts, cableways and horses. cesta” www.mvc.sk) or you can go cable railway are on offer for downhill cycling along the Morava and Danube Mountains skiing. There are also several crosscountry Hiking signs Rivers. Don’t forget thermal spas and skiing centres and official mountaineering museums in this area. skiing trails available. In Slovakia there In Trnava region (www.trnava.sk) are numerous visit the historic town of Trnava and
Daily life in Slovakia If you are more interested in shorter strolls, hiking routes, make a trip to the hills of the “Malé we recommend that you visit the Pieniny which are Karpaty” and the Driny cave – the only National Park (PIENAP), situated to the easy to follow cave open to the public in western east of “Vysoké Tatry”. The most popular thanks to colour part of the country. You can also visit attraction is a fork in the River Dunajec, symbols along nearby castles of “Červený kameň” where rafting in 9 km long Dunajec Canyon the way. The (Red Stone), “Smolenice” or castle ruins (Dunajec gorge) from the Red Monastery to hiking (trekking) of “Dechtice”. In Trnava region, there is Lesnica is on offer. routes are also the popular spa resort of Piešťany. mostly marked In Nitra region (www.nitra.sk), More information: by 3 horizontal stripes forming a square, in addition to Nitra’s historic treasures website of the municipality Vysoké Tatry 2 white stripes at borders to draw attention (Nitra castle, Franciscan Church and The Tatra Mountains are divided into – www.vysoketatry.sk (in Slovak only) and a coloured one (red, blue, green, Monastery, The Small and Grand “Západné” (Western), “Vysoké” (High), website of the Slovak Tourist Board – yellow) in the middle to indicate the route. Seminary, Romanesque church of “Belianske“ and “Nízke” (Low). High Tatras www.slovakia.travel If necessary the striped square takes the St. Michael Archangel in Drážovce from “Vysoké Tatry“ mountains are situated form of a striped arrow to show the change 12th century), visit nearby thermal spas in the northern part of Slovakia, on the Low Tatras “Nízke Tatry” is the second in the direction of the route. The lengths of in Diakovce. border with Poland. In 1949 it was declared highest mountain range, and lies between the routes are given as average hiking times In Trenčín region (www.trencin.sk) use to be the first Slovak national park (TANAP) the Váh and Hron valleys. The highest or as distance in kilometres at frequent your stay for a walk around the town and in 1993 it was, together with the polish peaks there are “Ďumbier” (2,043 m) and signposts. To see the used hiking symbols (Trenčín castle, Roman inscription part of the Tatras mountains, declared “Chopok” (2,024 m), from which there is visit the page of the Club of Slovak Tourists from 2nd century) or a trip to such hills by the UNESCO to be the “Biospheric an unmatched view of the surrounding at www.kst.sk (in Slovak only, look for as the “Biele Karpaty”, as well as the reservation of the Tatras”. High Tatras landscape. The National park of Low Tatras “Značenie”, “O značkovaní”). “Strážovské vrchy” and “Považský include 25 peaks reaching the height of over has also been established there (NAPANT). Inovec”. If you like spa resorts, 2,000 m. Some of the highest and most Walks you should definitely pay a visit to beautiful peaks in the range are “Kriváň” More information: Trenčianske Teplice. In Trenčín region, (2,494 m), “Gerlachovský štít” (2,655 m), website of the National park of Low In Bratislava region (official website of near the town of Prievdza, lies an “Slavkovský štít” (2,452 m) and “Lomnický Tatras (NAPANT) – www.napant.sk the city of Bratislava – www.bratislava.sk, enchanting neogothic castle of Bojnice štít” (2,632 m). website of the Slovak Tourist Board Bratislava Guide – www.bratislavaguide.com) (www.bojnicecastle.sk). – www.slovakia.travel you can use your free time for walks In Banská Bystrica region (http://eng. The Tatra National Park (TANAP) contains in the historical centre of the capital, banskabystrica.sk) you can enjoy the protected flora and fauna. The beauty of Other natural attractions are: its cobbled streets and squares, visit town’s beauty (town castle complex, the National Park is enhanced by natural Slovak Paradise “Slovenský raj”, Bratislava or Devín Castle, St. Martin’s square of the Slovak National Uprising, mountain lakes (“pleso”) that formed “Slovenský kras” – the largest karst Cathedral, Clariens church, Trinitarians Monument of the Slovak National during the ice age. The largest of these region, church, St. Elizabeth’s church (so called Uprising), trips to hills and such ranges is “Veľké Hincovo pleso”, while “Štrbské “Malá” and “Veľká Fatra” – mountains, Blue church) or other churches, as “Starohorské vrchy”, the Low Tatras 116 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 117
Spas (“Nízke Tatry”) and “Veľká Fatra” In Košice region (www.kosice.sk), humanism and renaissance, the system or “Kremnické vrchy”. Do not miss visit the Košice town (St. Elizabeth’s Spa treatment has a long history thanks of the castles gradually lost its military the historical mining towns of Banská Cathedral, St. Michael’s Chapel, Saint to the country’s large number of mineral and strategic importance and aristocratic Štiavnica and Kremnica. Near Banská Urban’s tower), the second largest springs. Some of them are mentioned families started to move from castles to Štiavniaca there is also an Antol castle in Slovakia. The village of Herľany under “Walks“. manor houses and to the towns. In this – mansion house in Svätý Anton. offers a unique cold geyser and mineral period a lot of castles were demolished, In Zvolen area (http://eng.zvolen.eu) springs to relax by. Excursions to More information: burned and others fell into disrepair after you can admire a stunning landscape of the surrounding countryside are not website of the Slovak Tourist Board inhabitants moved out. At present many hills like “Kremnické vrchy”, “Štiavnické complete without seeing the Zemplínska – www.slovakia.travel of the castles are reconstructed and are vrchy” and “Vtáčnik”. The spa resorts of šírava region, while wine lovers should open for visitors. Kováčová and Sliač offer relaxation after certainly pay a visit to the wine cellars Castles a long hike. See also Zvolen castle and of the Tokay region, such as those Slovak UNESCO Castle Pustý hrad directly in Zvolen that in Malá Tŕňa or Veľká Trňa. The country’s historic and architecturally Natural and Cultural Heritage
Daily life in Slovakia belongs to the largest ones in Central precious buildings are also great tourist Europe. Caves attractions. The first castles were built Places included on the UNESCO list of the In Žilina region (www.zilina.sk) you can in the 10th century at the strategically world cultural and natural heritage: seize the day by walking in the town There are many karst regions in the Slovak important locations. In those times it The historic town of Banská Štiavnica (long pedestrian zone, Square of Virgin Republic. 565 caves are currently registered, was necessary to protect the border areas (www.banskastiavnica.sk) and the Mary, church of St. Stephen in Rudiny including ten stalactitic caves; two ice against attacks of invaders and to prevent technical monuments in its vicinity, from 13th century, Budatin castle), visiting caves, and one aragonite cave that are open their entering into the country. In addition The village of Vlkolínec small villages, or hike in the hills as to the public. (Slovak Caves Administration to guarding services a system of castles (www.vlkolinec.sk) – historical site “Malá Fatra”, “Súľovské vrchy” or relax – www.ssj.sk) was used also to guard the most important of traditional folk architecture, in the spa resort of Rajecké Teplice. roads. A protecting system of castles in the Spišský hrad castle In Ružomberok area Považie region protected crossings over the (http://spisskyhrad.com, in Slovak (www.ruzomberok.eu) there are Váh river. The most extensive construction only) – the most extensive fortress beautiful villages near Ružomberok of stone castles in Slovakia started in Central Europe, and monuments in its offering hikes up the hills and the “Veľká immediately after the Tartars invasion surroundings, Fatra”, Low Tatras (“Nízke Tatry”) and in the middle of the 13th century and lasted The spa town of Bardejov “Chočské vrchy” ranges. The mineral till the half of the 14th. New stone forts were (www.ebardejov.sk, in Slovak only), springs of Kúpele Lúčky and Korytnica built in the place of original wooden castles The area of “Slovenský kras” provide refreshment to everyone; an or near them, but new castles were built (www.ssj.sk/jaskyne/najvyznamnejsie/ open thermal pool in Bešeňová offers as well. Most of the Slovak castles were svetove-dedicstvo/slovensky-kras) possibility of yearround swimming. built before the half of the 15th century. – the greatest karst region in Central In Prešov region (www.presov.sk, The nobility got the royal property step by Europe, in Slovak only) you can walk in the town step either as advance payment for a loan Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa (www.ssj. (Uniate Bishop’s Palace, Uniate Cathedral given to a monarch or for extraordinary and sk/jaskyne/spristupnene/dobsinska- Temple of St. John the Baptist, Klobusiczky In different mountain areas you can loyal services to the king. In the period of ladova) – ice cave, Palace, Church of St. Nicholas), visit find beautiful caves: in Nízke Tatry The Primeval Beech Forests of the nearby villages or towns or take a trip to – Demänovská jaskyňa slobody, Carpathian. the areas of Sigord, Haniska and Cemjata, Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa, Bystrianska as well as to the hills (like “Slanské vrchy”) jaskyňa, and Važecká jaskyňa; in More information: or relax at the Domaša reservoir. Be sure Belianske Tatry – Belianska jaskyňa; Website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs not to overlook Dubník with its opal mines in Slovenský kras – Domica, Jasovská – http://www.mzv.sk/en/foreign_policy/ – a real European rarity. The town of jaskyňa and Gombasecká jaskyňa, in international_organisations-slovakia_and_ Levoča (http://eng.levoca.sk) is famous Malé Karpaty – Driny; in Slovenský raj – unesco for its gothic art (wooden altars and Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa; in Veľká Fatra statues) by the workshop of Master Pavol, – Harmanecká jaskyňa; in Slovenské Website of the Slovak Tourist Board the sculptor. rudohorie – Ochtinská aragonitová jaskyňa. – www.slovakia.travel 118 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 119
Bilateral agreements often offer Slovak Medical Library, Bratislava 5.10 Language scholarships for participation in summer 5.11 Libraries www.sllk.gov.sk (in Slovak only) courses of the Slovak language and Slovak Pedagogic Library, Bratislava Slovak is the official language and culture organized by SAS. This intensive There are 12 state scientific libraries www.spgk.sk (in Slovak only) belongs to the West Slavic subgroup programme is especially offered to in Slovakia, 473 libraries affiliated with Technical University of Košice of the Indo‑European language family, university professors, experienced teachers, universities and institutions of higher www.lib.tuke.sk (in Slovak only) and uses the Roman script. It does not postgraduates of Slovak and Slavonic education, and 2 600 public libraries. University Library of Bratislava differ significantly from Czech, and studies, writers, translators and all others The University Library in Bratislava, www.ulib.sk/english comprehension in both languages is rather interested in Slovak language and culture. founded in 1919, contains more than University of Veterinary Medicine and common. The majority of the population A summer course lasts 3 weeks and takes 2 million volumes and is the country’s most Pharmacy, Košice (86 %) speaks Slovak as their mother place in August. important library. The Slovak National www.uvm.sk/node/508 (in Slovak only) tongue. The second most widely spoken More information: Library (1863), located in Martin, includes mother tongue is Hungarian. www.fphil.uniba.sk/sas a collection of materials relating to Slovak
Daily life in Slovakia culture. 5.12 Living costs The most widely spoken foreign languages Some universities and research institutions are English, German, Russian, Hungarian organise Slovak language courses for their Examples of prices provided below give an and French. The young urban population international students/researchers e.g. idea of how much it costs to live in Slovakia. is generally considered to be the most The Institute for Language and Academic These costs are only approximate and they linguistically proficient. Foreign languages Preparation for Foreign Students of the are subject to change. are sometimes taught at kindergarten, Comenius University (www.ujop.sk), usually at primary school in lower grades Methodical Centre of Matej Bel University Rent and always in the upper ones (5th till 9th) in Banská Bystrica (www.umb.sk) or a guest room at a students’ dormitory: and at secondary schools. There are Centre for Language and Academic from 11.80 € per night some primary and secondary schools Preparation of Pan European University 1 bedroom flat: from 300 € per month that conduct classes in foreign languages (www.uninova.sk/clap). For more including utilities (in larger towns the such as Hungarian, Ukrainian, Bulgarian, information contact the International prices are higher, especially in town English, German, French, Italian and Relations Office of the respective higher centres) Spanish. Private language schools offer education institution. 2 bedroom flat: from 400 € per month many possibilities for children, young people Slovak libraries on the web: including utilities and adults to learn foreign languages. Foreigners can attend courses in the Slovak Comenius University Medical Faculty language at several private language Library, Bratislava Food Slovak language courses schools that provide instruction at all www.fmed.uniba.sk/index.php?id=1764 lunch at a canteen: from 1.60 € levels of language proficiency: beginner, Mikuláš Kováč Public Library, restaurant meal: from 5 € To foreign students, scholarship intermediate, advanced. They offer group Banská Bystrica a pizza in a pizzeria: from 4 € holders, host students and others, who instruction or individual courses tailored to www.vkmk.sk/view. 1 litre of milk: 0.80 € are interested, courses of Slovak as a the clients’ individual needs. The courses php?cisloclanku=2006030601 1 litre of mineral water: 0.40 € foreign language are offered by Studia are aimed at mastering all four language National Library of Slovakia, Martin a loaf of bread: 0.70 € Academica Slovaca (SAS) – The Centre skills: speaking, listening, reading and www.snk.sk/?home 400 g spaghetti: 0.70 € for Slovak as a Foreign Language. In 2006 writing. The courses are usually held twice Old City Library Bratislava beer: 1 € the SAS Centre acquired accreditation a week, 2 standard lessons (90 min. in total) www.starlib.sk/en of the Ministry of Education of the Slovak per day. Pavol Jozef Šafárik University, Košice Transportation Republic for providing education activities www.upjs.sk/en/departments/ Local transport, basic ticket (single): “Slovak as a Foreign Language – Language Private language schools offering courses university-library from 0.50 to 1.40 € Course in Contact and Distance Form” of Slovak are, e. g. Academy of Education Slovak Agricultural Library, Nitra Local transport, monthly ticket/travel for all levels of language development, (www.aveducation.sk, in Slovak only), www.slpk.sk/english/index.html pass: from 20 € i.e. beginners (A1, A2), intermediate and Eurolingua (www.eurolingua.sk) or Berlitz Slovak Centre of Scientific and Technical upper‑intermediate (B1, B2) and advanced (www.berlitz.sk). Information, Bratislava (C1, C2). www.cvtisr.sk/index/go.php?id=33 120 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 121
Coaches: he/she has to pay the full amount for Emergency Contact phone numbers are available Bratislava – Košice, 445 km, from 21 € healthcare provided. More on health If you need emergency services on the website of the Yellow Pages Bratislava – Žilina, 203 km, from 9.50 € insurance see in the section “Social security (“pohotovosť” in Slovak), dial telephone www.zlatestranky.sk, section “automobiles Bratislava – Banská Bystrica, 230 km, & health insurance“ (page 75). number “112”. Ambulances are well – hire” (automobily – požičovne) and Green from 10 € staffed and equipped with life‑sustaining Pages www.greenpages.sk, section “car apparatus needed to safely transport hire” (autopožičovne). Doctors Trains patients to hospital. Hospitals provide 24 Bratislava – Košice: from 18.50 € General practitioners and specialists have hour emergency services. Some emergency Laundry and dry cleaning service Bratislava – Žilina: from 10 € their consulting rooms in hospitals or health care providers can be found at: Bratislava – Banská Bystrica: from 7.10 € in health centres. Upon your arrival you http://visit.bratislava.sk/en/ At present, there are several launderettes Taxi within Bratislava: app. 0.60 € per should ask for details of a local doctor, who vismo/dokumenty2.asp?id_ in Slovakia (www.cent.sk, in Slovak only), km (minimum fare from 3.20 €) will be able to provide information on the org=700014&id=1183&p1=1565 www.pramako.sk/bezobsluzne.html Petrol per litre: from 1.40 € standards. (list of emergency medical care providers (in Slovak only www.flipperwash.sk).
Daily life in Slovakia Diesel per litre: from 1.10 € in Bratislava); You can also use home laundry http://en.zlatestranky.sk/businesses/ facilities or commercial laundries that Dentists Having fun Slovakia/q_emergency%20medical%20 wash and iron clothing and linen for their Cinema ticket: 3 – 8 € In every town there is either a private services/1 clients. However, there are many dry Museum ticket: from 1 € or state dental practice (“zubár”, (list of emergency medical care providers cleaning services or even fast dry cleaners Theatre ticket: 2.50 – 20 € for drama, “stomatológ” in Slovak language). Upon in Slovakia) (nearly in every shopping centre). Some 4 – 35 € for opera and ballet arrival you should ask for details of the of them also provide leather/suede/fur Fitness centre ticket: from 3 € chosen dentist. cleaning and dyeing. Pharmacies Swimming pool ticket: from 1.50 € Notice: It is usually essential to book an Rent a bike: from 8.80 € per day appointment with a dentist in advance. You can buy medicines Beauty salons and hairdressers’ only at pharmacies (“lekáreň” in Slovak), There are many beauty salons providing Hospitals 5.13 Medical care located in every town and in some villages high quality service at a good price using In every university town there is a hospital (they are marked with a green cross). Every the modern techniques of cosmetology and The healthcare system in Slovakia falls (“nemocnica” in Slovak) with an Accident town has to have at least one emergency skin care. Most of them provide also nail under the competence of the Ministry of and Emergency department (“pohotovosť” pharmacy (“pohotovostná lekáreň“ design. There is also a lot of hairdressers’ Health. In Slovakia there are state and in Slovak) and many specialised clinics. in Slovak) open 24 hours a day, 7 days providing hair expert advice upon request. private health care providers. An initial a week – for further details consult the medical examination is provided by state More information: information posted on the door of every or private general practitioners. Everybody Ministry of Health: pharmacy. If you require treatment at 5.15 Public holidays can choose a general practitioner who www.health.gov.sk (in Slovak only) night, look for the sign “nočná služba”. usually provides basic health care and can List of health care providers: Pharmacies sell domestic and foreign The following days are official public refer a patient to an appropriate specialist www.zzz.sk (in Slovak only) medical products. Certain medicines are holidays: for further medical examination. List of dentists: obtainable only with a prescription from 1 January (Slovak Republic Day) www.zoznamzubarov.sk (in Slovak only) a physician. For a list of pharmacies see: 6 January (Epiphany) If a foreign national has health insurance, www.zzz.sk/?page=lekarne (in Slovak March – April (Good Friday, Easter the health care provided is paid for by the only). Monday, set according to the Christian insurance company. Depending on the type Calendar, check the concrete dates of of service provided, the health insurance the respective year after arrival) company will pay for this service either 5.14 Other services 1 May (Labour Day) in full or partially. If the health insurance 8 May (End of World War II) Car rental company pays for the service only partially, 5 July (St. Cyril and St. Methodius Day) the rest is paid by the foreigner directly In Slovakia there are many car hire firms. 29 August (Slovak National Uprising Day) to the health care provider. If a foreign Prices depend on the period over which 1 September (Slovak Constitution Day) national does not have health insurance, the car is hired, and the type of car. 122 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 123
15 September (Day of the Virgin Mary Žilina higher territorial unit Greek (Byzantine) Catholic Church of the Seven Sorrows) www.zask.sk in the Slovak Republic 1 November (All Saints Day) Reformed Christian Church in Slovakia 17 November (Day of Fight for Orthodox Church in Slovakia Local Administration Democracy and Freedom) Central Union of Jewish Religious 24 December (Christmas Eve) Local administration in the Slovak Republic Communities in the Slovak Republic 25 December (Christmas Day) is directed by municipalities. Every town Religious Society of Jehovah’s Witnesses 26 December (St. Stephen’s Day) has its own town hall and administration in the Slovak Republic headed by the mayor. Every village has Apostolic Church in Slovakia People usually do not work on these days; a community office headed by a reeve. Baptist Union in the Slovak Republic banks, post offices, shops, ambulances Many towns and villages have their Church of Seventh Day Adventists, are closed; some public transport offers own websites where you can find useful Slovak Association a reduced service (esp. buses and trains). information e.g. about local sightseeing, Brethren Church in the Slovak Republic
Daily life in Slovakia seats of public bodies, accommodation United Methodist Church, Slovak or current weather. Here is a sample list District 5.16 Regional and local of the biggest towns and their websites: Christian Corps in Slovakia administration Banská Bystrica New Apostolic Church in the Slovak www.banskabystrica.sk Republic Within the launch of decentralisation Bratislava Old Catholic Church in Slovakia as of 1 January, 2002 a regional level www.bratislava.sk Czechoslovak Hussite Church in Slovakia of self‑administration was established. Komárno The Slovak territory is divided into www.komarno.sk 5.17 Religion 8 higher territorial units/self‑governing Košice 5.18 Shopping regions, and into municipalities www.kosice.sk The Slovak Republic is by tradition (2,933). Between both levels of local Liptovský Mikuláš a religious country; the first Christian Souvenirs include pottery, porcelain, self‑administration (self‑governing regions www.mikulas.sk bishopric was established in the 9th century wooden carvings, hand‑embroidered and municipalities) there is no hierachy. Martin in Nitra. At present, several legal norms clothing and straw figures and food items. Both levels have their own elected officials, www.martin.sk regulate the freedom of conscience and There are a number of excellent shops distributed duties and liabilities. Some Nitra religion and provide a guarantee for general specialising in glass and crystal, while duties are divided between the state and www.nitra.sk respect of these fundamental human various associations of regional artists self‑administration. Poprad rights and freedoms. According to the and craftsmen run their own boutiques. www.poprad.sk Slovak Constitution, “Freedom of thought, Regional Administration Prešov conscience, religion and belief will be Most shops are open from Monday to Banská Bystrica higher territorial unit www.presov.sk (in Slovak only) guaranteed. This right will include the right Friday from 9:00 to 18:00, till noon on www.vucbb.sk Ružomberok to change religion or belief.” Saturdays and are closed on Sundays. Bratislava higher territorial unit www.ruzomberok.sk However, there are no strict regulations www.region-bsk.sk Trnava Religious Services and many shops are open longer and some Košice higher territorial unit www.trnava.sk There are services available in foreign for 7 days a week, esp. supermarkets, www.vucke.sk (in Slovak only) Trenčín languages (notably in English, German and hypermarkets and shopping centres. There Nitra higher territorial unit www.trencin.sk Hungarian) all over the country (for more is a possibility of online shopping, too. www.unsk.sk (in Slovak only) Zvolen information consult your church). Prešov higher territorial unit www.zvolen.sk www.po-kraj.sk Žilina List of registered Churches: 5.19 Sport Trenčín higher territorial unit www.zilina.sk Roman Catholic Church in the Slovak Summer Sports www.tsk.sk Republic Trnava higher territorial unit Evangelical Church of Augsburg In Slovakia there is a wide range of facilities www.trnava-vuc.sk Confession in Slovakia for summer sports. The most popular are cycling, water sports and hiking. Large 124 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 125
reservoirs such as Zemplínska šírava, over 80 days of snow per year which often Tickets can be bought at the train station Oravská priehrada, Liptovská Mara, reaches a level of 2 m in the “Nízke” and ticket office reading KVC (“Komplexné Sĺňava near Piešťany, Ružín at Hornád, “Vysoké Tatry”. In these high mountain vybavenie cestujúcich” in Slovak). and Domaša at the River Ondava along regions, there is snow on the ground If applicable, the teller may ask what type with artificial lakes like Slnečné jazerá for 130 days each year. Ice hockey and of train you would prefer: EC – Eurocity near Senec and Zlaté piesky in Bratislava ice‑skating are very popular sports that can train (international), IC – Intercity offer visitors a chance to enjoy water be practised in closed stadiums, as well as train, fast train or passenger train. To sports. Many Slovak rivers are navigable outdoors. guarantee a seat, it is possible to buy a seat and canoeing is very popular amongst reservation (“miestenka” in Slovak), since young people. Horse riding is becoming the trains may be crowded especially on Mountain Rescue Service Insurance more popular, with stables for public Friday and Sunday, when students travel to existing in many towns. Mountaineering, As of July 1, 2006 tourists bear the cost and from schools. hill‑walking, white water rafting, of search and rescue operations they
Daily life in Slovakia adrenaline sports, and paragliding are only require the Mountain Rescue Service International trains run several times a day some of the ways to spend a weekend in the (“Horská záchranná služba” – HZS) More information: from several train stations in the country mountains. Another very popular activity to conduct, excluding the costs covered www.sportslovakia.sk and international tickets can be bought is camping or renting cottages, and hiking by health insurance. Insurance companies at the KVC window or at the international (trekking) in the mountains. For those who offer products that cover the potential risk. ticket office (“medzinárodná pokladňa” prefer green lawns and white sport dress Please consult a commercial insurance 5.20 Transport in Slovak). there are many possibilities to play tennis company. Travel by train at tennis clubs, at public courts or golf For some trains it is also possible to in clubs. More information: Trains in the Slovak Republic are safe buy tickets on‑line at the website www.hzs.sk – Mountain Rescue Service and comfortable way to travel. There exist www.slovakrail.sk. More information: (in Slovak only) basically 6 different types of train: www.holidayinfo.sk, www.ski.sk Os Passenger train (“osobný vlak” in Slovak) Travel by coach http://rivers.raft.cz//slovensko/, www.holidayinfo.sk www.panorama.sk/index.asp?kam=/go/ Zr Accelerated train (“zrýchlený vlak” in Slovak) While the trains are more comfortable, clanky/430.asp&lang=en&sv=2 Indoor Sports R Fast train (“rýchlik” in Slovak) coaches are sometimes more direct, they connect most of the towns and villages, and Ex Express Winter Sports Sports centres offer opportunities for are reliable and satisfactory. The first thing fitness, aerobics and sometimes squash. IC Intercity is to check out the website at www.cp.sk Thanks to its mountainous nature, the These centres are often equipped with EC Eurocity or www.vlak-bus.sk. country offers great opportunities for saunas, solaria, and masseurs and many downhill and cross‑country skiing, as well also offer body care services, such as For international bus travel you can buy as snowboarding. The mountains enjoy cosmetic and pedicure facilities. Some How to find a connection and buy a ticket tickets at the ticket office or travel agency. towns also have indoor swimming pools The websites of the Slovak Railways Eurolines is the biggest provider operating that provide opportunities for swimming, www.slovakrail.sk or www.zsr.sk provide 13 regular international lines together saunas, and massages. information on time schedule, prices, with its domestic branch Slovak Lines. For duration and whether you have to switch international lines operated by Eurolines it You can also rent a gym‑hall to play squash, the trains at any point. The websites is possible to buy/book a ticket on‑line at indoor football, volleyball, basketball or www.cp.sk and www.vlak-bus.sk provide www.eurolines.sk. handball etc. that is mostly associated with a complex travel itinerary. Here you can a primary, secondary school or a faculty. choose the means of public transport Student Agency also provides several (bus, train, airplane, town public transport) international lines with special prices for but also search for optimal combination students (tickets can be bought on‑line at of them to find the shortest journey. www.studentagency.sk).
How to buy a ticket 126 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 127
When travelling by coach within Slovakia, with the downtown and at the same time often than once a day, it is advisable to buy tickets can be bought when boarding. offers a possibility of transport to/from travel pass, for example 30, 90 or 365‑day It is possible to buy a ticket with a seat the airport. The bus leaves the airport once passes. reservation (“miestenka” in Slovak) for per hour. long‑distance coaches at the ticket office To get a pass (30, 60 or 365‑day passes) you of any main bus station. Taxi to the city centre costs about 7 €. need a recent photograph (3 × 3.5 cm), your ID card and a completed application form. Travel by plane Local transport It is always helpful to consult with local people. Travel by plane within the country is also The public transport system in towns is rather comfortable. There are airlines quite reliable. A network of public transport Children and students travel for reduced that provide connections within Slovakia – usually buses (in Bratislava and Košice fares (ask for details as conditions may vary and to foreign countries, such as Ryanair from the Vienna Airport to Bratislava bus also a network of trams and trolleybuses) from town to town).
Daily life in Slovakia (www.ryanair.com), Czech Airlines station costs 7.70 € plus 1 € per a piece of covers most of the towns. Operating hours (www.csa.cz), LOT (www.lot.com) and luggage.) are from 5:00 to 23:00. After 23:00 there Useful glossary Danube Wings (www.danubewings.sk). are a few night bus lines. Every town is Autobus – bus Moreover, there is another bus connection responsible for running its own public Električka – tram There are 6 airports in Slovakia. The biggest between Bratislava M. R. Štefánik transport (“mestská hromadná doprava” Trolejbus – trolleybus are in Bratislava (“Letisko M. R. Štefánika” International Airport, Bratislava city in Slovak, abbr. MHD). Zastávka – stop www.airportbratislava.sk), in Košice centre (Nový Most) and Vienna’s Cestovný poriadok – schedule (“Medzinárodné letisko v Košiciach” Schwechat International Airport, Vienna Common features Cestovný lístok – single (one‑time) www.airportkosice.sk) and in Poprad city operated by Blaguss Slovakia (for the Public transport is the most widely ticket (“Medzinárodné letisko Poprad‑Tatry” time schedule and prices see the website used means of transportation in towns. Mesačník, predplatný cestovný lístok, www.airport-poprad.sk). www.blaguss.sk). Schedules can be found at every stop električenka – a monthly travel pass and in Public transport stands. Zastávka na znamenie – request stop Transportation between international Bratislava International Airport airports and principal Slovak towns M. R. Štefánik International Airport is Tickets are usually not sold on buses. located 15 km from the Bratislava Old In such cases they can be bought at Vienna International Airport (Austria) Town. A taxi into town costs about 6 – 9 €, newsstands, automatic ticket dispensers, Thanks to the short distance of Vienna and depending on where in the centre you some bus stations or public transport Bratislava (60 kilometres) it is also possible want to go. By bus, take No. 61 to Hlavná kiosks. However, it is dependent on the to use Vienna’s Schwechat International železničná stanica (Main Railway Station). particular town. Check this on arrival. Airport (www.viennaairport.com) which is larger than Bratislava’s Košice International Airport Tickets vary from town to town. M. R. Štefánik International Airport and Košice international airport is located There are time‑tickets (you can change then take a bus or a taxi to Bratislava. approximately 6 km south of the town. means of transport within a given period) Just in front of arrival gate at Vienna The airport is situated between the or single‑use tickets (every time you airport you will find the platform for suburbs Košice‑Barca and Košice‑Pereš. change means of transport, you use a new departure of buses leaving to Bratislava The airport is located less than 2 km from ticket). Fare depends also on tariff zones where you can change to bus/train to the expressway from Košice to Rožňava. It given by the town area. There are usually Information on the routes and other Slovak principal towns, e.g., Košice, is only 10 minutes from the town of Košice, also tickets valid for several days upon schedules in Bratislava can be found at Banská Bystrica, Trnava, Žilina, Trenčín 30 minutes from the town of Prešov and validation after entering the vehicle. You www.dpb.sk or www.imhd.sk. Information and Piešťany. Most of the buses terminate 20 minutes from Slovak‑Hungarian boarder. must also have a ticket for large pieces of on public transport in Banská Bystrica, at Bratislava’s Main Bus Station (Hlavná luggage and animals. Košice, Nitra, Prešov, Žilina is at www.imhd. autobusová stanica) Mlynské Nivy. Košice city public transport sk (in Slovak; look for “cestovné poriadky” company operates regular bus service If you stay longer in a certain town and – time schedule, “mapy a schémy” – maps For the bus schedule browse www.cp.sk No.23 which connects the airport of Košice you are sure to use public transport more and schemes of routes). Connection search or www.vlak-bus.sk. (The standard ticket 128 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 129
for public transport of a larger number of country of permanent residence. Everyone Petrol stations Breakdown service principal towns is available at www.cp.sk riding a motorcycle over 50 cm must be at Petrol stations are located throughout 18 120, ASA – Autoklub Slovakia Assistance, s. r. o. (under MHD), though it is necessary to be least 17 years old and everyone driving a car the whole territory of Slovakia. They are 18 112 familiar with names of stops. or lorry at least 18 years old. usually open 24 hours daily, and easy to find NAMK (National automotive club of the SR) 18 123, except in the most remote areas. Most of – section of road services 18 154 Taxi For any questions related to driving these are operated by Europe’s largest SATC (Slovak automotive tourist club) 18 124 licences you may visit the website petroleum companies and are well‑stocked. There are many taxi companies, although of the Ministry of Interior, section driving They sell diesel and non‑leaded petrol, cruising taxis are seldom available. Taxi licences www.minv.sk/?vodicske-preukazy Super Plus 98, Super 95‑Natural, Normal 21, It is necessary to use an appropriate stands are located throughout the towns. (in Slovak only) or in person at the District Tempo Plus 98, Tempo Plus 95, V‑Power, area code in front of the phone number. Taxis ordered by phone have cheaper fares transport inspectorate of the Police forces V‑power Racing, EVO Benzin, etc. For older The services are commercial and operate (usually 50 % cheaper). The fare is flexible in the place of your residence (addresses vehicles the non‑leaded petrol with special 24 hours a day. and varies from company to company. and office hours to be found at additives replacing lead are available,
Daily life in Slovakia When taking a taxi, look for one with http://www.minv.sk/?strankove-dni-a- Super 98 VS, Super 95 VS, Tempo Plus 95 company’s name on the car. hodiny-na-pracoviskach, in Slovak only). UNI are of this type. There is a network 5.21 Veterinary care of petrol stations providing also LPG To find out contact numbers on taxi services Traffic regulations (http://www.doauta.sk/ A list of veterinarians in Slovakia in the particular town search Yellow pages The current traffic regulations are the same index.php?option =com_ can be found at www.dog.sk/ at www.zlatestranky.sk (it is possible as in other European countries. Seat belts fabrik&Itemid=42&lang =sk, in Slovak veterinari/veterinari.htm or at to enter free text, or select Yellow are compulsory. The use of a mobile phone only). Almost all petrol stations also sell www.zzz.sk/?page=veterinari. The services pages categories; Industry, Transport is forbidden while driving. All accidents drinks and snacks. Toilet facilities tend to of a veterinarian must be paid for in full at & Agriculture; Transportation). must be reported to the police. It is be quite acceptable, and larger stations the point of use. prohibited to drink any amount of alcohol offer showers. In all big petrol stations you Travel by car before or while driving. No level of alcohol can pay with credit cards. in blood is tolerated. A car must have the Driving licence appropriate lights on during the whole year. Parking A driving licence issued in another state Parking in cities is well marked by authorises the holder, when in the Slovak Speed limits international traffic signs. Parking Republic, to drive motor vehicles of the On a motorway: 130 km/h (80 mph) in forbidden places can result in being categories indicated in it, provided that On a motorway in built‑up area: 90 km/h fined, towed or wheel‑clamped. In bigger the driving licence meets the conditions (49 mph) cities, some parking places are specified given in the International Convention On an open road: 90 km/h (55 mph) for parking with a parking card, which can on Road Traffic (Article 2, Article 41, In built‑up area: 50 km/h (30 mph) be bought from newspaper kiosks. Other and Appendix 6 of the Convention on Road parking places require the use of automatic Traffic, Vienna 1968). Motorway stickers parking meters. For the motorways, your automobile If a driving licence issued in another state must have a motorway sticker valid in the does not meet these requirements, the given calendar year. They are available at foreign national may only drive a motor border crossings, petrol stations and post vehicle if he/she is the holder of a valid offices. The sticker must be placed on the international driving licence. right‑hand side of windscreen and you must always have the second part of the sticker All foreign national driving licences are with you and show it to a police officer upon recognised in Slovakia. request. Any sticker not fixed is not valid. Motor‑bikers do not need toll stickers on Everyone riding a moped must be at least motorways. 15 years old and must hold a driving licence even if such a licence is not required in their 130 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 131
6. Glossary H M hory mountains manželka spouse, wife A diaľničná známka motorway sticker hrad castle materská škôlka kindergarten hraničný priechod border crossing medzinárodný international ambulancia outpatient room dieťa child medzivládny intergovernmental auto car diéty per diem
Glossary I divadlo theatre mena currency autobus bus, coach internát dormitory, student dohoda agreement hostel mesačník, a monthly pass autopožičovňa car rental predplatný dohoda agreement on the izba room cestovný lístok B o vykonaní práce performance of work mestská hromadná local public balík parcel doktorandské doctoral (PhD.) J doprava (MHD) transport štúdium study jaskyňa cave benzín petrol miestenka seat reservation domáci domestic jazyk language byt flat, apartment mimoškolská činnosť after‑school activity doplnkové poistenie additional insurance jazykový kurz language course mimovládne neziskové non‑governmental C doprava transportation jedáleň canteen organizácie non‑profit organisations cena price dovolenka annual leave jedlo food, meal cestovná kancelária travel agency dovoz import mzda income, wage, salary cestovné náhrady travel allowances dôchodkové poistene old‑age insurance K cestovný poriadok schedule dôchodok old‑age pension kaderníctvo hairdresser N clo, colnica duty, customs DPH VAT kaviareň coffee bar, café nájomné rent standpoint druh type, kind kino cinema náklady costs cudzinec foreigner, alien kniha book nápoj drink čaj tea E knižnica library národný national čas time električka tram kostol church nárok entitlement čerpacia stanica petrol station, fuel električenka a monthly pass kúpele spa nemocenské poistenie sickness insurance station nemocnica hospital čistiareň dry cleaning F L financovanie funding člen, členský štát member, member lekár doctor, general O state finančný financial practitioner, physician občan citizen, national D G lekáreň pharmacy obchod shop daň z príjmu income tax gymnázium secondary grammar letisko airport oblečenie clothes school daň, daňovník tax, taxpayer list letter odborný lekár specialist daňové priznanie tax return, lístok ticket odchod departure declaration of taxes lyžovanie skiing osobný vlak passenger train 132 EURAXESS SLOVAKIA The International Researcher‘s Guide to Slovakia 133
P priemysel industry U vyučovanie teaching‑learning process personálna agentúra personnel príchod arrival ubytovanie accommodation recruitment agency vzdelávanie education príjem income účet bill pivo beer úrad office Z plat wage, salary R úrazové poistenie injury insurance zahraničný, foreign, abroad rámcový framework
Glossary počasie, weather v zahraničí ústav institute reštaurácia restaurant predpoveď počasia weather forecast základná škola primary school uzávierka deadline rezervácia booking počítač computer zákon act, law územie territory rodina family podpis signature zamestnanie employment uznávanie diplomov recognition rodné číslo birth registration podpora support of diplomas zamestnanec employee number pohotovosť emergency zastávka bus/tram stop rodný list birth certificate V poistenie, insurance zbraň firearm rozvoj development veda science poistenie unemployment zdravie health rýchlik fast train v nezamestsnanosti insurance vedec scientist zdravotná health care rýchlosť speed pokladňa ticket office veľvyslanectvo embassy starostlivosť poplatok fee S vchod entrance zdravotná poisťovňa health insurance vláda government company poschodie floor samospráva self‑administration vlak train zdravotné poistenie health insurance postihnutie disability sanitka ambulance vodičský preukaz driving licence zdroj source pošta post office služba service vstupné admission fee zmenáreň exchange office povinná školská compulsory sobášny list marriage certificate dochádzka education výdavky costs zriaďovateľ founder spolupráca cooperation povinné odvody levies into východ exit zubár dentist do fondov poistenia compulsory funds stredná škola secondary school výmenný kurz exchange rate železničná stanica railway station povolenie na pobyt residence permit súkromný private výnimka exception žiadosť application práca work sviatok holiday výpis z registra criminal record škola school pracovný čas working time trestov štátny state práceneschopnosť sick leave výskum research štipendium stipend, scholarship pracovná zmluva employment výskumník researcher contract T vysokoškolské higher education pracovné povolenie work permit vzdelávanie tretia krajina third country praktický lekár general practitioner výťah lift trolejbus trolleybus prechodný pobyt temporary stay vyučovací jazyk language trvalý pobyt permanent priemerná mzda average income of instruction residence