Upon arriving in Slovakia as an international student, there are several important duties and tasks you should attend to in order to ensure a smooth transition and legal compliance. Here’s a list of duties you might need to take care of:
Registration at the University:
Visit your university’s designated office for international students to complete the registration process. This might involve submitting required documents, receiving your student ID card, and getting information about your courses and schedule.
Residence Registration:
If you plan to stay in Slovakia for more than 90 days, you are generally required to register your residence with the local Foreign Police department within 10 days of your arrival. This applies to both EU and non-EU citizens.
Health Insurance:
Ensure that you have valid health insurance coverage that meets the requirements of the university and Slovak regulations. If you don’t have health insurance arranged, consider purchasing a local health insurance plan.
Bank Account:
If you haven’t already, consider opening a bank account in Slovakia to facilitate your financial transactions and manage your funds.
Language and Integration Courses:
If your program is taught in Slovak or if you want to improve your language skills, inquire about language courses offered by the university or other institutions. Additionally, some universities might offer integration courses to help you adapt to the local culture.
Attend Orientation:
Participate in any orientation sessions organized by the university for international students. These sessions provide valuable information about campus facilities, academic expectations, and local resources.
Explore the Campus and Surroundings:
Familiarize yourself with the university campus, locate important buildings (lecture halls, libraries, administrative offices), and explore the surrounding area to find essential services like grocery stores, pharmacies, and public transportation.
Activate Student Services:
Activate any online student platforms or portals provided by the university. These platforms often give you access to course materials, schedules, and other important information.
Apply for a Residence Permit:
If your stay in Slovakia will be longer-term (usually more than 90 days), you might need to apply for a residence permit after your arrival. This process can take some time, so it’s best to initiate it early.
Local SIM Card:
Consider getting a local SIM card for your mobile phone to have local communication and data services.
Cultural Integration:
Engage with local student organizations, attend cultural events, and explore the local culture. This will help you make friends, feel more at home, and adapt to your new environment.
Transportation:
Learn about the local public transportation system and obtain any necessary transportation cards or passes.
Emergency Contacts:
Save important phone numbers, including the local emergency services and your country’s embassy or consulate.
Stay Informed:
Keep up with university emails, announcements, and any changes in academic or administrative schedules.
Set Up Utilities:
If you’re living off-campus, make sure to set up utilities such as electricity, water, and internet services.
Remember that the specific duties and steps may vary depending on your individual circumstances, the university you’re attending, and any changes in local regulations. It’s always a good idea to consult with the university’s international office or the appropriate local authorities to ensure you’re following the correct procedures.
