Doing Business with Slovakia

Exporting goods to Slovakia involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand Slovakia’s import regulations and product standards.

2. Identify Your Product’s HS Code

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code for tariff and regulation details.

3. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary export documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

4. Check Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers

   • Verify any tariffs and ensure compliance with non-tariff measures.

5. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder

   • Choose a logistics provider experienced in shipping to Slovakia.

6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Regulations

   • Ensure your products meet local labeling and packaging standards.

7. Arrange for Insurance

   • Secure insurance to cover potential shipping risks.

8. Submit Customs Declaration

   • Work with your freight forwarder to submit the necessary customs declaration through Slovak customs.

9. Track and Confirm Delivery

   • Monitor the shipment to ensure it reaches the destination safely.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic
  • Website: Ministry of Economy
• Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency (SARIO)
  • Website: SARIO

Importing goods into Slovakia involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Obtain a EORI Number

   • Register for an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number through Slovak customs.

2. Classify Your Goods

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to understand tariffs and duties.

3. Check Import Requirements

   • Verify if your goods need specific licenses or permits from relevant authorities.

4. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary documents: commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and certificate of origin.

5. Select a Customs Broker

   • Engage a licensed customs broker to assist with the import process.

6. Submit Import Declaration

   • File the import declaration electronically through the Slovak customs system.

7. Pay Duties and VAT

   • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties and Value Added Tax (VAT).

8. Arrange for Cargo Clearance

   • Coordinate with your freight forwarder or customs broker for the clearance and delivery of goods.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic
  • Website: Ministry of Economy
• Slovak Customs Administration
  • Website: Slovak Customs

Incorporating a company in Slovakia involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of company, such as a Limited Liability Company (s.r.o.).

2. Register a Company Name

   • Check the availability of your desired company name and reserve it.

3. Prepare Incorporation Documents

   • Draft the company’s Articles of Association and other required documents.

4. Open a Bank Account

   • Deposit the minimum share capital into a Slovak bank account.

5. Register with the Commercial Register

   • Submit incorporation documents to the Slovak Commercial Register.

6. Obtain a Trade License

   • Apply for a trade license specific to your business activity.

7. Register for Taxes

   • Register for tax identification and VAT with the Slovak Tax Office.

8. Register for Social Security

   • Enroll the company with the Social Insurance Agency.

Costs

• Registration Fee: Approximately EUR 300 for a Limited Liability Company

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic
  • Website: Ministry of Economy
• Slovak Commercial Register
  • Website: Slovak Business Register

Setting up a manufacturing plant in Slovakia involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Feasibility Study

   • Assess market demand, location suitability, and resource availability.

2. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of business entity, such as a Limited Liability Company (s.r.o.).

3. Register the Company

   • Register your business with the Slovak Commercial Register.

4. Secure Financing

   • Arrange funding through banks or investors.

5. Select a Location

   • Choose an industrial area with access to necessary infrastructure and resources.

6. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Apply for construction and operational permits from relevant authorities.

7. Design and Construct the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors to design and build the plant according to regulations.

8. Purchase and Install Equipment

   • Acquire machinery that meets safety and operational standards.

9. Hire and Train Employees

   • Recruit skilled workers and provide necessary training.

10. Set Up Supply Chain and Distribution

    • Establish relationships with suppliers and distributors.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic
  • Website: Ministry of Economy
• Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency (SARIO)
  • Website: SARIO
• Slovak Commercial Register
  • Website: Slovak Business Register

Registering a trademark in Slovakia involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Use the Slovak Industrial Property Office database to ensure your trademark is unique.

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Gather necessary details, including the trademark design and list of goods/services.

3. File the Application

   • Submit your application to the Slovak Industrial Property Office, either online or in person.

4. Pay the Application Fee

   • The fee is typically around EUR 166 for one class of goods/services.

5. Application Examination

   • The office examines the application for compliance and potential conflicts.

6. Publication for Opposition

   • If approved, the trademark is published for a period during which oppositions can be filed.

7. Receive Registration Certificate

   • If no oppositions are filed, you receive the official trademark registration certificate.

Costs

• Application Fee: Approximately EUR 166 for one class

Key Contacts

• Slovak Industrial Property Office
  • Website: Industrial Property Office of the Slovak Republic

Resolving commercial disputes in Slovakia involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Consult Legal Counsel

   • Engage a lawyer experienced in Slovak commercial law for advice.

2. Attempt Negotiation

   • Try to resolve the dispute amicably through direct negotiation with the other party.

3. Mediation

   • Use mediation services to facilitate a resolution. Mediation is often faster and less costly.

4. Arbitration

   • Consider arbitration for a binding decision. The Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry provides arbitration services.

5. Litigation

   • If necessary, file a lawsuit in the Slovak courts. Prepare for a formal legal process.

6. Enforcement of Judgments

   • Ensure the decision is enforced through the relevant authorities.

Costs

• Legal Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and length of the dispute.
• Court Fees: Required for litigation and depend on the case specifics.
• Mediation/Arbitration Fees: Vary based on the service provider.

Key Contacts

• Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry
• Ministry of Justice of the Slovak Republic
  • Website: Ministry of Justice

When considering business in Slovakia, it’s important to understand various factors:

Social and Cultural Factors

• Language: Slovak is the official language; English is commonly used in business.
• Business Etiquette: Punctuality and formal business attire are valued. Building personal relationships is important.

Political Factors

• Government: Stable parliamentary republic.
• Regulation: Business-friendly environment with transparent regulations.

Economic Factors

• Currency: Euro (EUR).
• Key Industries: Automotive, electronics, machinery, and information technology.

Foreign Exchange

• Exchange Rate: Stable, as Slovakia is part of the Eurozone.

Rule of Law

• Legal System: Based on civil law; strong legal framework for business operations.
• Intellectual Property: Protected under EU regulations and international agreements.

Infrastructure

• Transport: Well-developed infrastructure with efficient road and rail networks.
• Utilities: Reliable supply of electricity and water.

Key Contacts

• Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency (SARIO)
  • Website: SARIO
• Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic
  • Website: Ministry of Economy
• Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry