Inviting Parents & Friends

Structured guidance for Indian nationals and legal residents in Slovakia who wish to invite family members or friends for a short-term visit.

Inviting someone to Slovakia involves both the visitor’s visa application and the host’s legal responsibilities. Proper documentation is essential to avoid delays or refusals.

📌 Who Can Be Invited?

You may invite:

• Parents
• Siblings
• Extended family members
• Friends
• Relatives attending family events

The visitor must apply for a Short-Term Schengen Visa (Type C) unless they are from a visa-exempt country.

Indian passport holders always require a visa before travel.

🛂 Visitor Visa Requirement

Your invited guest must apply for a Schengen Visa at the Slovak Embassy or authorized visa center in their country of residence.

Maximum permitted stay: 90 days within any 180-day period

This visa is strictly for short-term visits and does not allow employment or long-term stay.

📄 Invitation Letter (Host’s Responsibility)

As the host in Slovakia, you may need to provide a formal invitation letter.

The invitation typically includes:

• Your full name and residence details
• Your residence permit details (if applicable)
• Purpose of visit
• Duration of intended stay
• Confirmation of accommodation
• Statement of financial support (if applicable)

In some cases, the invitation must be officially verified by the Slovak Foreign Police. Confirm verification requirements before submission.

🏠 Proof of Accommodation

The visitor must provide proof of accommodation, such as:

• Host’s residence address
• Property ownership document or rental agreement
• Written landlord consent (if renting)

Authorities may verify accommodation capacity and legality.

💶 Financial Responsibility

The visitor must demonstrate sufficient funds for:

• Daily expenses
• Accommodation
• Return travel

If the host agrees to sponsor the visit, additional documents may be required:

• Proof of income
• Bank statements
• Employment confirmation

Financial insufficiency is a common reason for visa refusal.

🩺 Travel Insurance Requirement

• Travel medical insurance
• Minimum coverage of €30,000
• Valid across all Schengen countries
• Coverage for entire duration of stay

✈️ Required Documents for the Visitor

In addition to the invitation, the visitor typically must provide:

• Valid passport
• Completed visa application form
• Biometric data
• Passport-size photographs
• Flight reservation
• Proof of ties to home country (employment, property, family)

Strong proof of intent to return is essential.

🚫 Important Restrictions

Visitors entering on a short-term visa:

• Cannot work
• Cannot enroll in long-term study
• Cannot convert visa into residence from within Slovakia
• Must leave before the 90-day limit expires

Overstaying may result in fines, entry bans, or future visa refusals.

⚖ Host’s Legal Responsibility

By issuing an invitation, the host may be legally responsible for:

• Ensuring accommodation
• Financial coverage (if declared)
• Compliance with immigration laws

Providing false information or fraudulent documents may result in penalties.

🗓 Processing Time

• Standard processing: approximately 15 calendar days
• May extend up to 45 days in complex cases

Applicants are advised to apply well in advance of planned travel dates.