An IMGW News Report
Slovenia is poised to introduce its much-anticipated digital nomad visa on 21 November 2025, joining a growing list of European countries intent on attracting remote professionals. The scheme will allow non-EU and non-EEA citizens to reside in Slovenia for up to 12 months, provided they work exclusively for foreign employers or clients. In contrast to some rival programmes, the Slovenian visa cannot be renewed consecutively: holders must spend at least six months beyond the country’s borders before reapplying.
“Socially, Slovenia has made notable progress: same-sex marriage has been legal since 2022, and protections for LGBT rights are broadly upheld – Though Malta remains the EU’s most highly rated jurisdiction for LGBT equality and civil liberties”
Lifestyle Nature & More
The country offers a relatively high standard of living for its modest size. Slovenia’s GDP per capita stands at roughly €31,000 – higher than Croatia but below Germany and Malta, whose per capita income exceeds €35,000. Unemployment remains low, hovering near 3.4%, compared to Malta’s 4% and significantly outperforming Spain or Greece. Day-to-day expenses in Ljubljana are approximately 30% lower than in Amsterdam or Berlin, and still cheaper than Malta’s principal urban centres, while remaining above costs in parts of Portugal.
Slovenia is a full member of the Schengen Area, affording digital nomads unfettered access to 25 other European countries without additional visas or permits. Socially, Slovenia has made notable progress: same-sex marriage has been legal since 2022, and protections for LGBT rights are broadly upheld, though Malta remains the EU’s most highly rated jurisdiction for LGBT equality and civil liberties. Freedom House classifies Slovenia as a free democracy, with strong safeguards for freedom of expression, judicial independence and media pluralism.
“Slovenia aims to position itself as a safe, modern and cost-effective European haven for globally mobile professionals”
Healthcare provision is universal and widely regarded as of high quality, with effective primary care and well-regarded specialist services. Slovenia’s health outcomes are among the best in Central Europe, while Malta also enjoys a solid reputation for its publicly funded healthcare system and relatively short waiting times. Both countries consistently perform well on safety indices, with low crime rates and a stable political environment.
Compared with Mediterranean alternatives – such as Spain, Portugal, Malta and Greece – Slovenia offers a quieter backdrop, lower living costs than Malta or Spain, and immediate access to Alpine landscapes and the Adriatic coast. For families, cities such as Maribor, Kranj and Koper provide a calmer pace of life, reputable schools and a strong sense of community.
Applications will be accepted online or via Slovenian embassies and consulates. While income thresholds are yet to be published, applicants must demonstrate sufficient resources to support themselves and any dependants. In unveiling this programme, Slovenia aims to position itself as a safe, modern and cost-effective European haven for globally mobile professionals.
