From August 11, 2026, Slovakia has not stopped providing temporary protection to Ukrainian men, but significantly strengthened verification of the legality of their departure from Ukraine and their presence in the country. There are no fundamental changes for women and children. For men aged 18 to 60, the rules have become much stricter.
What police now check
Police began checking the legality of a person’s stay and the circumstances of their departure from Ukraine. To confirm legal departure, one of three options is considered: a stamp in the passport specifically indicating departure from Ukraine (not entry to Poland, Slovakia, Hungary or Romania), a current Reserve+ with translation into Slovak by a certified translator, or appropriate confirmation from the Ukrainian consulate.
Practice is still developing, and requirements may vary among different police departments.
Different requirements depending on age
For the Reserve+ document, there is an important age-based distinction. For men aged 18 to 23, a current Reserve+ may be sufficient provided there is no wanted status. The document must not be older than three days.
For men aged 23 to 60, requirements are stricter. It matters what exactly is stated in the Reserve+: unfitness for military service, appropriate deferment, discharge from military service, or other status confirming legality and release from military obligation. For this age group, the mere absence of wanted status may not be enough.
Risks for those who violated visa regulations
Slovakia has begun monitoring cases of visa regulation violations. If a person has exceeded the permitted stay period or is in the country illegally, there is a risk of not just receiving temporary protection denial — there is a possibility of detention and the start of administrative removal or deportation procedures.
If there is a visa regime violation, it is not advisable to apply without first checking your situation.
Protection in another EU country may become an obstacle
If a person has already received temporary protection in another European Union country, this may also become an obstacle to obtaining temporary protection in Slovakia. How exactly this will apply to women and children remains to be seen.
What to do if conditions don’t suit you
If a person does not meet the conditions for obtaining temporary protection, it does not necessarily mean that they cannot legally live in Slovakia. Other options for obtaining a residence permit remain: employment, starting your own business or entrepreneurial activity, education, family reunification.
Before submitting documents, it is advisable to first check your specific situation and only then choose a legalization option.
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