Life in Slovakia

Public transport

Buses, trams and trolleybuses (MHD) run frequently and on time in towns. Buy your ticket in an app, at a machine or by card on board, and validate it immediately. Inspectors check often and fines are high. If you travel daily, a monthly pass pays off. Trains (ZSSK) and long-distance buses run between towns.

Driving licence and car

• With a Vietnamese and an international driving licence you may only drive for a limited time. If you live here longer, check with the district traffic inspectorate whether you need to exchange it or take Slovak exams.
• Motorway vignette – electronic, bought at eznamka.sk.
• Parking – in towns it is mostly paid via an app or a machine. Bratislava has residential zones.
• Slovakia has zero tolerance for alcohol when driving.

Phone and internet

Operators: Orange, Telekom, O2 and 4ka. You can buy a prepaid SIM card straight away with your passport. A monthly plan and home internet usually require a residence document. Before signing a 24-month contract, read how much it costs to end it early.

Post and parcels

Slovak Post also delivers official letters. If you are not at home, it leaves a notice and you collect the letter at the post office – be careful with official letters: even an uncollected letter may be considered delivered. Parcels often go to pick-up boxes (Z-BOX, Packeta).

Shopping

Supermarkets are open on Sundays too, but closed on some public holidays. You can find Vietnamese and Asian food in Asian shops and at markets. You pay a deposit on plastic and glass bottles – return them in the shop and get your money back.

Waste and utilities

Waste is sorted: plastics, paper, glass, kitchen bio-waste and mixed waste. Bin colours may differ between towns – follow the label on the bin. You pay the waste fee to the town. Electricity and gas are paid in advance instalments, with an annual settlement.

Sport, leisure and travel

Slovakia has mountains, caves, spas and castles. Towns have cheap sports facilities and swimming pools. With valid residence you can travel in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within 180 days – always carry your passport and residence document.