United States entry requirements for Slovakia passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 6, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
90 days
Max stay
90 days
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Slovak passport holders need an approved ESTA to travel to the United States for tourism or business in 2026. The ESTA is an electronic travel authorization, not a visa, and is valid for multiple entries over two years. Apply online at least 72 hours before departure — approval is often instant, but allow time for processing.
Apply for United States eVisaOnly valid for Visa Waiver Program nationalities. Apply at least 72 hours before departure; approval is linked electronically to your passport.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization)ESTA is not a visa but an online pre-authorization required for visa-free travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program. Visa waiver entry permission | Slovak citizens must obtain an approved ESTA before boarding a flight to the US. Apply online at the official ESTA website (https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/). The fee is US$40.27 ($4.00 processing + $36.27 authorization). Processing is often instant, but allow up to 72 hours. The authorization is valid for multiple entries over two years, with each stay up to 90 days. | Required |
| Passport validityUS immigration requires your passport to remain valid for a certain period after your planned departure to ensure you can return home. Must be valid for 6 months beyond your intended stay | Your Slovak passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended period of stay in the US. For a 90-day stay, ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and 90 days from your arrival date. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesA blank page is needed for the entry stamp; without it, you may be denied boarding or entry. At least 1 blank page for entry stamp | Your passport must have at least one blank page for the US Customs and Border Protection officer to affix an entry stamp. Ensure no pages are damaged or missing. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHaving a return ticket helps demonstrate that you are a genuine visitor and will not overstay. Proof of departure from the US | Although not explicitly required by US regulations, airline staff and border officers may ask for proof of a return or onward ticket to confirm you intend to leave the US before your 90-day stay expires. It is strongly recommended to have a booked return flight. | Recommended |
| Proof of fundsShowing you have money to cover your trip can help avoid questions about your ability to support yourself. Evidence of sufficient financial means | While not a formal requirement for Slovak citizens under the Visa Waiver Program, US border officers may ask for evidence that you can support yourself during your stay. Carry bank statements or credit cards to show you have access to funds. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any additional arrival form before traveling; the ESTA covers your entry authorization. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Slovak citizens entering the US under the Visa Waiver Program. The ESTA authorization and your passport are sufficient. | Not required |
ESTA approval is not guaranteed
While most applications are approved instantly, some take up to 72 hours. Apply well in advance of your flight. If denied, you'll need to apply for a B-1/B-2 visa, which involves an interview and can take months.
ESTA is not a visa
The ESTA is an electronic travel authorization under the Visa Waiver Program. It allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business. It is not renewable and cannot be extended. For longer stays or work, you need a different visa.
What happens at the border
1
Complete the ESTA application online
Go to https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/ and fill out the online application. Have your passport, travel dates, and recent photo ready. The form takes about 20 minutes. You'll receive a confirmation with your application number — save it.
2
Pay the ESTA fee
Pay the US$40.27 fee online using a credit or debit card. The fee covers processing and authorization. Keep the payment receipt for your records.
3
Wait for approval
Approval is often instant, but officially allow up to 72 hours. You'll receive an email with your ESTA status. Check your spam folder if it doesn't arrive promptly.
4
Travel to the US
Once approved, your ESTA is linked to your passport. At US border control, have your passport and return ticket ready. The officer may ask about your stay — keep answers consistent with your application.
Download United States Entry Checklist
PDF · Slovakia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 6, 2026
Overstay calculator
Enter your arrival date and we'll tell you exactly when you need to leave.
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa
Max stayUp to 6 months (at discretion of CBP officer)
ValidityUsually 10 years (multiple entries)
Cost$185 (application fee)
Required if you do not qualify for ESTA (e.g., previous overstay, criminal record) or if you plan to stay longer than 90 days. Must apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate and attend an interview.
H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa
Max stayUp to 3 years, extendable to 6 years
ValidityTypically 3 years (initial)
Cost$190 base fee + additional fees (e.g., $500 fraud prevention, $750/$1500 training fee, premium processing $2,805 optional)
For employment in a specialty occupation. Requires a U.S. employer to file a petition with USCIS.
L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa
Max stayUp to 3 years (L-1B) or 7 years (L-1A)
ValidityTypically 3 years (initial)
Cost$190 base fee + $500 fraud prevention fee (if new office) or $500 for blanket petition
For employees of multinational companies transferring to a U.S. office in a managerial/executive role (L-1A) or with specialized knowledge (L-1B).
O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa
Max stayUp to 3 years, extendable in 1-year increments
ValidityTypically 3 years (initial)
Cost$190 base fee + $500 fraud prevention fee (if petition filed by employer) or $1,055 for individual petition
For individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. Requires a U.S. employer or agent to file a petition.
work visa
H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa
Up to 6 years
$190 USD (€175) base fee
For skilled professionals with a job offer from a US employer. Requires bachelor's degree or equivalent. Allows eventual green card application.
Apply student visa
F-1 Student Visa
Duration of studies + 60 days
$185 USD (€170)
For full-time academic programs at accredited US institutions. Allows part-time on-campus work. Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation.
Apply investor visa
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa
Permanent residency (Green Card)
$1,050,000 USD (€970,000) minimum investment
For investors who invest at least $1,050,000 in a new commercial enterprise that creates 10+ jobs. Leads to permanent residency.
Apply retirement visa
No specific retirement visa; use B2 or Green Card
Varies
Varies
The US does not have a dedicated retirement visa. Retirees typically use B2 tourist visa (max 6 months) or apply for permanent residency through family or investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| ESTA application feeIncludes $4 processing fee and $17 authorization fee. Payable online by credit/debit card. | $21 |
| ESTA authorization (if approved)Valid for multiple entries for up to 2 years or until passport expires, whichever comes first. | Included in $21 fee |
| ESTA reapplication (if passport expires or new passport issued)A new ESTA is required when you get a new passport. | $21 |
| Visa waiver overstay or violation feeIf you overstay your 90-day ESTA period, you may be barred from future ESTA use and may need a visa. | Varies |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete visa application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through United States
No transit visa needed
Slovak citizens are visa-exempt for transit through the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA). If you are only transiting through a U.S. airport en route to another country, you must still obtain an approved ESTA before travel. There is no separate transit visa for Slovak passport holders.
Airside transitAllowed
Exceptions & conditions
- If you do not have an approved ESTA (e.g., due to previous overstay or criminal record), you must apply for a B-1/B-2 visa even for transit.
- If you are traveling on a diplomatic or official passport, you may need a visa depending on purpose.
Transit hubsJohn F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) · Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) · Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
Health & vaccines for United States
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, polio, varicella, influenza)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedHepatitis BRecommendedTyphoidConsiderRabiesConsider
Health risks
Tick-borne diseases (Lyme disease)Moderate risk
Risk in wooded areas of Northeast and Upper Midwest; use repellent and check for ticks.
Mosquito-borne diseases (West Nile virus)Low risk
Rare but present in summer; use insect repellent.
Foodborne illnessesLow risk
General risk from undercooked food; practice good hygiene.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Washington, D.C.
USCIS Washington Field Office
2675 Prosperity Ave, Fairfax, VA 22031
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Handles extensions and change of status; appointments required.
New York
USCIS New York Field Office
26 Federal Plaza, New York, NY 10278
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
For extension applications; bring Form I-539 and fee.
Practical information for SK travellers
Country basics
CapitalWashington D.C.
LanguageEnglish
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceForeign visitors may drive with a valid home-country licence for the duration of their stay. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyUS Dollar (USD)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 1 USD
Time zone
Local timeAmerica/New_York
vs New York+0:00 (same timezone)
vs Los Angeles-3h from NY
Electricity
Voltage120V / 60Hz
Plug types
A,BType A (two flat parallel pins) and Type B (two flat parallel pins + grounding pin)
✓ No adapter needed for US plugs
Water & health
Tap water
Safe to drink
Tap water is safe to drink throughout the country.
Emergency numbers
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to United States — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
No. Slovakia is part of the Visa Waiver Program, so you do not need a traditional visa. You must apply for an ESTA online before traveling. The process takes about 20 minutes and approval is often instant, but allow up to 72 hours.
The online form takes about 20 minutes. Approval is often instant, but officially allow up to 72 hours. There is no interview or embassy visit required.
The fee is US$40.27, which includes a $4.00 processing fee and a $36.27 authorization fee. This is payable online by credit or debit card. The ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
No. The ESTA allows a maximum stay of 90 days per visit. Extensions are not permitted. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a different visa type, such as a B-1/B-2 visitor visa, before traveling.
If your ESTA is denied, you will need to apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa at the U.S. Embassy in Bratislava. This requires completing the DS-160 form, paying a $185 fee, and attending an in-person interview. There is no appeal process for an ESTA denial.
Yes. Even for a layover, you need an approved ESTA or a C-1 transit visa. The only exception is if you're on a direct flight that doesn't require clearing US customs — rare for most itineraries. Check with your airline.
No. The ESTA is for tourism, business meetings, or medical treatment only. Any paid work, including remote work for a non-US employer, is technically not allowed. For employment, you need a work visa like H-1B or L-1.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 6, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.