United States Visa RequirementsFor Slovakia passport holders
Slovak passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Slovakia passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Slovakia to United States: What You Need to Know
Slovakia joined the US Visa Waiver Program in November 2008 alongside Hungary and the Czech Republic, completing the Central European bloc's VWP integration. Slovakia and the US are NATO allies, and bilateral relations have generally been warm despite some political fluctuations. A Slovak-American diaspora exists particularly in Pennsylvania (where Slovak immigrant steel workers settled in the early 20th century) and Ohio. Bratislava Airport (BTS) is small but nearby Vienna Airport (VIE) offers extensive connections. Slovak nationals with a non-VWP second passport must use their Slovak document for ESTA.
How to Get There
From Vienna (VIE), Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa, and US carriers fly nonstop to New York (JFK/EWR), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), and Washington (IAD). From Bratislava (BTS), connections via Vienna, Prague, or Frankfurt are available with Austrian Airlines, Czech Airlines, and Lufthansa.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is expected and is a social obligation in the US: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink, a few dollars for taxis and hotel staff. Slovakia uses the Euro; exchange at the airport or use US ATMs. Inform your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. Most Slovak travelers fly from Vienna (VIE) rather than Bratislava (BTS) given the wider range of transatlantic options. The 90-day limit is firm. Carry proof of return travel and funds. US customs officers may ask about your visit purpose and accommodation: have hotel details ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Slovak citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Slovakia joined the US Visa Waiver Program in 2008. Slovak passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must have an approved ESTA before traveling.
How do Slovak citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Complete the form, pay $21, and receive authorization, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
What airlines fly from Slovakia to the United States?
Most Slovak travelers fly from Vienna (VIE) due to its extensive transatlantic routes. Austrian Airlines flies nonstop from VIE to New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington. Connections via Frankfurt or Amsterdam are also available.
How long can Slovak citizens stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. Extensions are not available under VWP status.
Can Slovak citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA is for tourism, transit, and business meetings. Paid work requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final entry decision.
What happens if a Slovak citizen overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying leads to deportation, VWP ineligibility, and serious difficulties with future US visas.
Is ESTA valid for multiple trips to the United States?
Yes. One ESTA covers multiple trips for up to 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.