Slovenien

Översikt

Slovenia is a parliamentary democracy and has become a stable nation following the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. Unlike Serbia or Bosnia-Herzegovina’s separation from Yugoslavia, Slovenia’s independence was essentially bloodless. Slovenia joined NATO and the EU in 2004 before joining the Eurozone in 2007, reflecting the country’s progress and stability. Although progress has been positive, the country experienced major financial difficulties in 2012 due to the economic crisis, which almost prompted an international bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The crisis, along with allegations of corruption, prompted the collapse of the centre-right coalition in 2013.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Slovenia. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza.

Risk of tick-borne encephalitis is present in all forested areas of the country, particularly in the regions of Gorenjska and Koroska.

Tap water is safe to drink in Slovenia.

Healthcare in Slovenia is generally of a high standard, especially in the major towns and cities. The European Health Insurance Card (formerly the E111) gives holders access to state health care free of charge. However, comprehensive insurance is still advisable. Those coming from outside of the EU will need to get health insurance in any case.

Pass

Slovenia participates in the EU-led Schengen Agreement. Citizens of Schengen countries need to produce proof of their EU citizenship but not their passport. However, even these travellers would be well advised to bring their passports in case they are required to prove their ID.

Visitors who are not from member countries of the EU and/or the Schengen area will need to produce a valid passport in order to enter Slovenia. Passports are required to be valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure date.

Visum

Visas are not required to visit Slovenia (or elsewhere in the EU) by citizens of several countries, including those from fellow EU member states, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan and the US. Prospective visitors are advised to check with their embassies as to whether they will need to arrange for a visa in advance. Those that do require visas will be able to obtain these from Slovenian embassies and consulates in advance of travel.

All non-EU citizens staying for longer than three days in Slovenia are obliged to register with the local police. Hotels usually do this on behalf of their foreign guests, but visitors staying in private accommodation must take care to register themselves. Registration is available 24 hours a day at police stations and is free of charge.

Travellers can find information regarding which nationalities require a Schengen visa for entry into Slovenia at the European Commission Visa Policy website.