If you’re an American with Slovak ancestry, you may have wondered about reconnecting with your heritage. One way to do so while increasing your freedom of movement is through a Slovak Living Abroad (SLA) certificate. This semi-citizenship allows you to live, work, or study in Slovakia and can expedite your path to Slovak naturalization. This guide covers what the SLA is, its benefits, eligibility criteria, and the application process.

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What Exactly Is a Slovak Living Abroad Certificate?

The Slovak Living Abroad Certificate is a form of semi-citizenship offered by Slovakia to descendants of ethnic Slovaks. While it does not grant a passport, it provides invaluable benefits:

• Residency Rights: Live, work, or study in Slovakia for up to five years.
• Expedited Naturalization: Apply for Slovak citizenship after three years of continuous residence in Slovakia.
• Cultural Connection: Strengthen your ties to Slovak heritage and community.

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Eligibility Requirements

Slovak Ancestry

To qualify, you must trace your lineage back to an ethnic Slovak ancestor. There is no generational limit, so the qualifying ancestor could be a great-great-grandparent or further back. Common documents to prove ancestry include:

• U.S. naturalization petitions
• Ship manifest records
• 1920 census records showing Slovak as the "native tongue"
• Birth certificates of each successive ancestor, translated and apostilled if not from Slovakia

Cultural Awareness

Demonstrate a genuine connection to Slovak culture by:

• Joining and actively participating in Slovak cultural organizations in your country.
• Obtaining a letter from the organization confirming your cultural involvement.

Language Awareness

While there is no strict requirement to submit a specific document proving language proficiency, familiarity with the Slovak language is beneficial. Participation in language courses or certifications indicating proficiency (A1, A2, B1) can support your application.

FBI (or Equivalent) Background Check

U.S. citizens need to obtain an FBI background check, involving fingerprinting and an identity summary history. Applicants from other countries must provide an equivalent background check.

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Application Process

1. Gather Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including proof of ancestry, cultural involvement, and background check.
2. Schedule Consulate Appointment: Contact the Slovak consulate in Washington D.C. or New York based on your geographic location and schedule an appointment.
3. Submit Application: Visit the consulate in person to submit your documents and application.
4. Consulate Review: The consulate staff will review your application for completeness.
5. SLA Office Decision: The SLA Office in Bratislava adjudicates applications, typically within 60 days.

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Benefits of the Slovak Living Abroad Certificate

• Residency Rights: Live, work, or study in Slovakia for up to five years.
• Expedited Citizenship: Apply for Slovak citizenship after three years of residence.
• Cultural Reconnection: Deepen your connection to Slovak heritage and community.