What are the main legal pathways for entering Slovakia?
The lawful ways for entering a country differ based on where you are from.
EU nationals
EU nationals enjoy wide freedom of movement, which is a fundamental principle of the EU, enshrined in the Treaty on European Union and developed by EU secondary legislation (Directive 2004/38/EC). This means that if you are a citizen of an EU country, you have the right to move and reside freely within the territory of EU Member States.
Countries, the citizens of which do not need a visa
In addition to EU citizens, there is a list of countries, the citizens of which do not need a visa to enter the Schengen area (including Slovakia) for stays of no more than 90 days in any 180 day period.
Countries, the citizens of which need a visa
If you are a citizen of a country which is not on that list, you will need a visa or a residence permit to be able to enter Slovakia. In that case, you can apply for a Schengen visa or a national visa. A family member of a Union citizen shall be granted a Schengen visa. You can be granted a national visa, if it is necessary in relation with the granting a residence permit in the Slovak Republic or the applicant is older than 15 years and is accepted for language education at a language school in the extent of minimum 25 lessons per week or it is necessary in order to fulfill the obligations of the Slovak Republic following from international treaties or it is in the interest of the Slovak Republic.
A national visa shall be granted for residence longer than three months, maximum one year. National visa may be granted for 90 days and if a national visa is to be granted for the purpose of education at a language school, then for the duration of the language education at the school, maximum until 31. July of the relevant school term.
The requirements and procedure for applying for a Schengen visa, a national visa or a residence permit are set out in the Act on Residence of Foreigners.