Slovakia Strengthens Ties with China Through Cultural Initiatives and Visa Facilitation

During his second personal meeting in six months with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced plans to open a Slovak cultural institute in Beijing by the end of 2025. He also extended an invitation to China to establish a similar cultural center in Bratislava, reflecting both countries' intent to deepen diplomatic and cultural relations.

Visa-Free Access for Slovaks to China Requested

PM Fico also requested that China extend the current visa-free travel for Slovak citizens—which allows stays of up to 30 days—even beyond 2025. This request comes as China continues to expand visa-free entry for selected partner countries. In addition to bilateral issues, the leaders also addressed global trade tensions, including disputes involving China, the United States, and the European Union.

Slovakia to Offer 1,000 Work Visas Annually to Chinese Nationals

The Slovak government previously announced its plan to issue 1,000 national work visas annually to Chinese nationals, particularly to employees of approved Chinese investors. According to the Slovak Ministry of Labor, these visas will be valid for employment periods of up to one year, as part of a broader effort to attract foreign talent and investment.

“The regulation defines the framework for granting national visas for employment to Chinese nationals working for selected investors,” said the Ministry.

Rising Migration and Strong Chinese Interest in Schengen Visas

According to Eurostat, Slovakia issued 642,710 residence permits in 2023, with 225,237 (35%) issued for employment—highlighting a strong demand for labor migration.

Meanwhile, Chinese nationals continued to be the top applicants for Schengen visas in 2023, with 1.1 million applications submitted. France received the highest number (271,111), followed by Germany (160,479) and Spain (148,533). Slovakia received 895 applications from Chinese citizens, approving 91% (819 visas)—one of the highest approval rates in the Schengen Area.