Slovakia Visa Guide for Indian Citizens in UK Complete Application Guide 2025
Yes, Indian citizens living in London need a Schengen visa to travel to Slovakia. Your nationality decides the visa requirement, not UK residence so being an Indian passport holder means you’ll need a visa for Slovakia. You’ll need to apply at the Slovakia visa application center in London, located at 66 Wilson Street, London EC2A 2BT.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Bratislava Castle
Košice, Slovakia
Historic city center
High Tatras, Slovakia
Mountain range
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Eligibility Criteria for Indian Nationals Applying for Slovakia Visa from London or the UK
To apply for a Slovakia visa from London or anywhere in the UK, you need to be legally residing in the UK with the right type of visa or residence permit.
UK Residency Requirements
- ✓ Must hold a valid Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or a valid residence visa; applications on a visitor visa aren't accepted.
- ✓ Residence permit should be valid for the entire duration of the Slovakia visa application process.
Basic Eligibility Criterias
- ✓ Applicants generally must be at least 18 years old, though minors can apply with parental consent.
- ✓ Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the planned date of exit from Slovakia.
- ✓ Visit purpose must align with permitted categories like tourism, business, study, or family visit; other purposes require different visa types.
Who Cannot Apply
Those who are only in the UK on a visitor visa or with expired/invalid residence status can't apply from the UK. Also, applicants with pending deportation or serious criminal records may be excluded.
Documents Required for Slovakia Schengen Visa Application by Indian Citizens in London
ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS
Passport: You’ll need your original Indian passport make sure it’s valid for at least three months after your intended departure from Slovakia. There should be at least two blank pages for visas. Don’t forget to bring clear photocopies of the photo/data page, as these are usually expected alongside the original.
UK Residence Permit: If you live in London, you must include your valid Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or UK visa. Double-check that your UK permit is still valid at the time of your Schengen application and for your return. Expired or near-expiry UK visas are a very common reason for a refused Slovakia visa.
Schengen Visa Application Form: Complete and sign the current Slovakia Schengen visa form. It can’t be unsigned or incomplete missing a section is an easy way to get your application delayed.
Recent Passport Photos: Two photos, taken within the last six months. These should be on a white background, sized 35x45mm. Don’t use older pictures visa centers often reject them.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
Flight Bookings: Provide a copy of your round-trip flight reservation showing entry and exit from Slovakia (or Schengen area). You don’t need to buy tickets yet, but fake bookings or “dummy” tickets that look suspicious can cause problems.
Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or an invitation letter if staying with friends/family. The address and contact details should match your travel plans.
Travel Insurance: You must have medical insurance covering at least €30,000, valid for all Schengen states and your whole stay. Many miss the coverage requirement check the details before you buy.
STATUS DOCUMENTATION
Proof of Employment or Study: Employed? Get a recent letter from your employer, on company letterhead, confirming your position, salary, and approved leave dates. Students need a letter from their UK institution confirming your course and attendance. If self-employed, provide recent tax returns or business registration.
Financial Proof: Recent bank statements (typically last 3 months). The balance should clearly show you can support yourself during your trip.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Family Documents: If you’re traveling with family or joining relatives, submit marriage and/or birth certificates. Non-English documents must be officially translated unofficial translations or missing translations will get your file bounced back.
Previous Schengen Visas: If you’ve had Schengen visas before, include copies. It helps demonstrate travel history.
Cover Letter: It’s optional but highly recommended. Briefly explain your trip details and itinerary.
Common mistakes: Submitting photos older than six months, missing translations, not including photocopies, overlooking the insurance coverage, or handing in incomplete forms. Double-check everything small errors can cost you weeks.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Slovakia Schengen Visa from London for Indian Citizens
Follow these steps if you want to handle the application yourself
Online Application
Start your journey on the France-visas.gouv.fr website since Slovakia uses France's visa processing system. Fill out the online form carefully - it's pretty straightforward but double-check everything before submitting.
Appointment Booking
Book your appointment through TLScontact London. They handle Slovakia applications in the UK. Slots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait around. The service fees are separate from visa costs.
Document Preparation
Get all your documents organized well before your appointment day. You'll need translations for anything not in English, plus photocopies of everything. It's worth creating a checklist to avoid missing anything important.
Appointment Day
Head to the TLScontact center in London - 38-40 Kingsway, Holborn. Arrive early since there's security screening first. They'll verify your documents, take biometrics, and conduct a brief interview about your travel plans.
Tracking & Collection
You can track your application status online using the reference number they give you. Passport return usually takes 10-15 working days, though it can vary depending on their workload.
Travel
Once you get your visa, double-check the validity dates before traveling. Keep all your supporting documents handy when flying - immigration officers sometimes ask to see proof of accommodation or return tickets at the airport.
Slovakia Visa Processing Time and Fees for Indian Passport Holders Applying in the UK
Processing Timelines
If you're an Indian passport holder applying for a Slovakia visa from the UK, expect the standard processing time to be around 15 calendar days. During peak travel seasons, it can take up to 30 days. Plan ahead and avoid last-minute applications.
Visa Fees
The standard fee for a short-term Schengen visa to Slovakia is €80 (~£70). Applicants under 18 pay €40 (~£35). Fees are usually paid in euros but pounds are often accepted, converted at current exchange rates. Check payment methods when booking your appointment.
Service Fees
Applying through TLScontact, Slovakia’s authorized visa center, incurs an additional service fee of £25-£30. Optional services like courier delivery and prime-time appointments may cost extra.
TIMELINE PLANNING: Apply at least 6 to 8 weeks before your trip to handle unexpected delays. Avoid applying too early (more than 3 months ahead) as your visa validity might not align with your travel dates.
Financial Requirements for Slovakia Visa: Minimum Bank Balance and Proof for Indian Nationals
DAILY FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS
For Indian citizens, Slovak authorities usually require €40–€120 per day depending on accommodation. Multiply by your total days in Slovakia. For a two-week trip with hotels, show at least €1,680. Include extra funds as a buffer.
BANK STATEMENT REQUIREMENTS
Provide bank statements for the last 3–6 months showing consistent inflow and outflow. Ensure balances cover total trip costs plus a safety margin.
ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL PROOF
Include salary slips, income tax returns, or employment letters. These demonstrate financial stability and intention to return to the UK.
SPONSORSHIP OPTIONS
If you can’t meet financial requirements, a sponsor can assist. Provide their invitation letter, ID, proof of address, and financial documents. Ensure everything is signed and current.
Tips to Increase Slovakia Visa Approval Chances for Indians Living in London
COMMON REJECTION REASONS
Most rejections are due to incomplete documentation and weak financial evidence. Insufficient proof of funds, unclear travel purpose, missing accommodation, and weak ties to the UK are common issues. Outdated bank statements or inconsistent employment letters also lead to rejections.
PREPARATION STRATEGIES
Organize documents 6–8 weeks before travel. Use a checklist covering all required paperwork. UK employment letters should clearly state position, salary, and leave. Bank statements should cover 3–6 months. Book accommodations and flights early, considering refundable options until visa approval.
SUCCESS TIPS
Demonstrate intent to return to the UK. Highlight employment stability, property ownership, or family commitments. Provide a realistic itinerary and original documents. Include extra supporting evidence if unsure about requirements. Double-check everything before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slovakia Visa for Indian Citizens Applying from London
Q: Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Slovakia?
Yes, Indian citizens must get a Slovakia Schengen Visa (Type C) for short-term trips, even for tourism or business. Visa-free entry is not allowed. The visa permits stay in Slovakia and other Schengen countries up to 90 days within 180 days. Always check the latest requirements before applying.
Q: What documents do I need for a Slovakia visa application from London?
Completed Schengen visa application, valid passport (≥3 months after return), recent photos, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, travel insurance (€30,000), proof of sufficient funds (€50–€60/day), UK residence permit valid 3 months past return, and invitation letter if staying with friends/family. Ensure all documents are up-to-date.
Q: Where and how do I apply for a Slovakia visa in London?
Apply in person at BLS International Slovakia Visa Application Centre in London. Book online, submit documents, and complete biometrics. The Embassy of Slovakia processes applications. Book early, especially during busy periods.
Q: How long does the visa process take and what does it cost?
Processing takes about 15 working days, longer during holidays. Standard adult fee €80 (GBP payable), kids 6–12 pay €40, under-6 free. Pay at appointment; fees may change. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
Q: What are the financial requirements for the visa?
Prove you can support yourself €50–€60/day. Common proofs: recent bank statements, salary slips, or sponsorship letters. Insufficient funds may cause refusal. Ensure documents are recent and clearly show your name and account balance.
Expert Review & Official Sources
Expert Verification & Official Sources
This comprehensive guide has been reviewed and verified by Visa Expert Kritika, specializing in European visa requirements and UK-based applications, on September 09, 2025.
Source Verification
All information is cross-referenced with official embassy sources and current immigration policies as of September 17, 2025.
Official Source
We strongly recommend that you always check the official source: https://www.mzv.sk/web/londyn-en