Ask which document is needed first
Universities and public authorities may ask for foreign documents to be authenticated and translated. The method depends on the issuing country, the document and the receiving authority. Ask the faculty or authority for its current instructions before paying for an apostille or consular legalisation.
Apostille or superlegalisation?
For public documents exchanged between countries where the Hague Apostille Convention applies, an apostille usually replaces the longer diplomatic or consular legalisation chain. Where the Convention does not apply, the relevant authorities may require further legalisation, often called superlegalisation. Bilateral agreements or specific exceptions can change the result.
SAIA’s document authentication guide explains the Slovak context. The authority that issued the document or its designated competent authority can tell you how to authenticate it. A translation and recognition of prior education are separate questions.
For an application
- Get the exact document list from the university or responsible authority.
- Check the issuing country and whether the Convention or an exemption applies.
- Confirm who may issue the apostille and whether an official translation is needed.
- Allow time for originals, translations and delivery before the deadline.
EduSlovakia can discuss university application document requirements, but does not prepare, submit or manage visa or residence permit applications. This is general information only. Confirm exact immigration document rules with the university and the Slovak embassy responsible for your country or the competent Foreign Police department. Applicants remain responsible for the authenticity and timely submission of their documents. See our policy.
