EU programmes

Within the EU programmes in cross-border Volunteering, the Slovak Republic takes part in the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), which is administered by the National Agency  Erasmus+ for youth and sport in Slovakia. The National Agency Erasmus+ for youth and sport in Slovakia is responsible for monitoring youth participation in EU programmes. This includes tracking the number of incoming and outgoing participants, their countries of origin, and main destinations. However, specific data on trends in participation and how these reflect legislative objectives for target groups are not detailed in the available information.

Other Programmes

Programme SLOVAK AID enables young volunteers aged 18 – 30 and experts to be sent to developing countries within official development aid. The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic coordinates the programme. The programme is implemented by the Slovak Agency for International Development Cooperation established by the specific law. Participating countries are Kenya, Moldova, and Georgia. Volunteers and experts may be sent to any country listed by the OECD Development Aid Council. Programme regulations and sending processes have been described by the Programme document.  The document is updated every year.

Several organizations are also volunteers sending organizations abroad to developing countries: Salesian missionary volunteering, Slovak Catholic Charity, and Adra. They are using their specific programs. 

Legal framework applying to foreign volunteers

Visas and Residency

• Visas: Volunteers from selected countries need a visa to enter Slovakia.

• Residency Permits: Volunteers require a temporary residence authorization to stay in Slovakia.

• Social Security Coverage: The legal framework provides for the social security coverage of foreign volunteers, including health insurance and reimbursement of medical expenses, though specific details are not provided.

Legal Status

The Act on Volunteering and the Act on Youth Work Support provide legal status for foreign volunteers in Slovakia. The Slovak Police Force Presidium – Authority of Borders and Foreign Nationals Police maintains statistics on temporary residence authorizations for volunteers, available on the Ministry of Interior's webpage.