Slovakia is one of Central Europe’s most underrated destinations. Bratislava — its compact, walkable capital — sits on the Danube just 60km from Vienna and 80km from Budapest, making it one of the best-connected small capitals in Europe. The country combines excellent quality of life, very low cost of living, a growing automotive and technology industry, and a natural landscape of extraordinary diversity: the High Tatras, Slovak Karst, Slovak Paradise National Park and the Danube lowlands. For UK nationals seeking an affordable, well-connected European base, Slovakia offers compelling value.
Why Londoners Move to Slovakia
- Cost of living — Slovakia is one of the EU’s most affordable member states. Bratislava rental costs are typically 60–70% lower than London. Groceries, dining and services are dramatically cheaper
- Bratislava’s location — the Slovak capital is 60 minutes by train from Vienna, 2.5 hours from Budapest and 3 hours from Prague. This unique connectivity makes Bratislava an excellent base for Central European travel and business
- Automotive industry — Slovakia has one of the world’s highest concentrations of car production per capita. Volkswagen, Stellantis (PSA), Kia and Jaguar Land Rover all have major manufacturing facilities here. The automotive supply chain employs tens of thousands of engineers and technicians
- Euro currency — Slovakia adopted the euro in 2009. No currency risk for UK nationals managing finances across both countries
- Low crime, high safety — Slovakia is one of Europe’s safest countries with very low violent crime rates
Post-Brexit: Visa and Residency for UK Nationals
UK nationals moving to Slovakia for more than 90 days require a Slovak temporary residence permit from the Foreign Police (Cudzinecká polícia).
Temporary residence permit for employment — requires a confirmed employment contract with a Slovak employer. Employer applies for a work permit on your behalf before you arrive.
Temporary residence permit for business — for self-employed professionals. Requires proof of a business activity registered in Slovakia.
Temporary residence permit for family reunification — for partners/spouses of Slovak citizens or those already with Slovak residence.
Apply at the Slovak Embassy in London or at the Foreign Police after arrival (within 3 working days). Processing: 30–90 days.
After arrival:
- Register at the local Foreign Police (Cudzinecká polícia) within 3 working days
- Obtain your rodné číslo (birth/ID number) — used for tax registration and health insurance
- Register with a health insurance company (Všeobecná zdravotná poisťovňa — VZP, or private equivalent) — compulsory for all residents
Bratislava and Beyond
Bratislava Old Town (Staré Mesto) — the compact, walkable historic centre. Pedestrianised streets, excellent restaurants and bars, Bratislava Castle overlooking the Danube. Limited residential supply; most expats live just outside the Old Town.
Ružinov — eastern Bratislava, popular with families and professionals. Mix of communist-era apartment blocks and newer developments. More affordable than the Old Town area.
Petržalka — large housing estate south of the Danube, connected to the Old Town by bridge. Affordable, recently upgrading. Largest district in Bratislava.
Outside Bratislava — Košice (Slovakia’s second city, 400km east) has a growing IT services sector; the High Tatras region attracts outdoor enthusiasts and remote workers.
Cost of Moving from London to Slovakia
| Service type | Estimated cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Part-load (shared) | £450 – £950 | Studios, 1-bed flats, personal effects |
| Full-load (dedicated van) | £1,100 – £2,400 | 2-bed+ homes, full households |
| Professional packing add-on | £200 – £500 | Full household packing by our team |
Bratislava, Košice and all Slovak cities covered. Get a free fixed-price quote for your removals to Slovakia.
Estimated transit time — London to Bratislava: 3–5 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions: Moving from London to Slovakia
What visa do I need to move from London to Slovakia?
UK nationals need a Slovak temporary residence permit for stays over 90 days. The most common routes are the employment permit (requires a Slovak employer) and business permit (for self-employed). Apply at the Slovak Embassy in London or the Foreign Police after arrival; allow 1–3 months.
Is Slovakia in the eurozone?
Yes. Slovakia adopted the euro in 2009. For UK nationals managing finances in both the UK and Slovakia, this simplifies currency management significantly.
How affordable is Bratislava compared to London?
Very. Bratislava rental costs are typically 60–70% lower than London. Groceries, restaurants and everyday services are dramatically cheaper. For remote workers with UK-level salaries, purchasing power in Bratislava is exceptional.
How long does a removal from London to Slovakia take?
Transit from London to Bratislava typically takes 3–5 working days.
Does Easy Move handle EU customs for Slovakia?
Yes. Slovakia is an EU member state and Transfer of Residence relief applies to all household goods shipped from the UK.
Ready to move? Our team handles the full process: packing, customs and delivery.