Among European countries, Slovenia doesn’t always stand out for many things. This is because the country is small and overshadowed by its larger and more famous neighboring countries. Many travelers even skip it while backpacking through Europe.
I’ve prepared this post to let you know that Slovenia is actually an excellent choice for travelers, especially those who are working remotely and want to try out being a digital nomad in Slovenia. Interested? Keep reading!
Table Of Contents
Why Should I Be A Digital Nomad In Slovenia?
While deciding where you want to settle next as a remote worker, there are many things you have to consider. Is life there good? Will I be safe? Is there lots to do? These are all questions very easily answered when it comes to Slovenia. Here are the reasons Slovenia is a great choice for digital nomads.
Safety
Slovenia is super safe! In fact, it’s among the safest countries in the world, ranking 7th on the list, according to the Global Peace Report. It almost doesn’t get more peaceful than that.
Cost Of Living
As a digital nomad, you’ll be pleased to hear that Slovenia is quite affordable! However, prices do vary by location. For example, you’ll find cheaper accommodation in smaller towns than in the capital city of Ljubljana. Public transport is cheap and efficient, and the country has a bike-friendly infrastructure. In Slovenia, you’ll also find plenty of coworking spaces that are good for different budgets and offer membership plans.
Culture
While living in Slovenia, you’ll have a bunch to learn about its interesting history and culture. When not doing long hours at the office, you can explore ancient castles, museums, and galleries. You can join local festivals such as the Kurentovanje festival in Ptuj. There are plenty of unique traditions you can take part in during your digital nomad adventure.
Great Food
While there, you’ll find a variety of delicious Slovenian cuisine, including potica and kranjska klobasa. And don’t forget to try out the exquisite Slovenian wines!
Places To Work In Slovenia As A Digital Nomad
While choosing a city or place to work, it’s good to be informed about what you can expect. I believe these are the best places to work in Slovenia as a digital nomad:
- Ljubljana
- Maribor
- Bled
- Koper
- Piran
Ljubljana is Slovenia’s capital and largest city. You’re most likely to find numerous coworking spaces in the city center. And if you don’t want to work in a coworking space, then Ljubljana also has plenty of cafes with good Wi-Fi where you can work comfortably.
Maribor is Slovenia’s second-largest city. It has a growing community of freelancers and remote workers. You’ll find plenty of spaces and coworking facilities for digital nomads. Maribor also has a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, making it a pleasant place to live and work.
Bled is quite well known among travelers already. You probably already know about the picturesque lake and the castle. Just imagine working with a stunning view of that in a charming cafe.
Located on the coast, Koper offers a mix of seaside charm and urban convenience. Koper’s coastal location also means you can enjoy sunny beaches during your downtime.
Piran is a real coastal gem. It’s known for its historic buildings and narrow streets. Here, too, you will find cafes and spaces where you can work while soaking in the Slovenian Adriatic atmosphere.
Everything You Need To Know About The Slovenian Visa
There is currently no digital nomad visa in Slovenia, but there are other options for people who want to work remotely.
EU countries don’t require a visa. Digital nomads can stay in Slovenia for three months without restrictions. Registration as a resident is required for stays longer than three months.
Non-EU citizens with a residence visa for another EU country can stay in Slovenia for up to 90 days in any 180 days without needing another visa.
For stays longer than 90 days, or a self-employment visa, you’ll need to establish your own business in Slovenia, be the majority owner, and work for the business. Visas can be renewed on a two-year basis.
Around 60 countries have visa-free access to the Schengen area. If you need a visa, you should apply at the consulate or embassy. People from Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can travel to the Schengen area without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180 days. However, they must leave the Schengen area and cannot return until six months have passed.
Where Can I Go In Slovenia?
When you’re not working, you’ll probably want to explore Slovenia and see some amazing natural and cultural attractions. This gem in Central Europe may surprise you.
First thing I would suggest is to go check out some waterfalls! A really good choice is the Savica waterfall, near the Triglav National Park. The hike to get there is quite picturesque. All along the way you can admire views of the surrounding mountains.
Head off to Postojna and go inside the Postojna Cave, which is one of the most extensive cave systems in Europe! Explore the dark tunnels and rooms with awesome rock formations. Don’t miss the fun train ride that goes through a part of the cave.
The Julian Alps have some of the best views in Slovenia. Visit Bovec, a small town great for hiking, rafting, and zip-lining. Up for a bigger hike? Climb Mount Triglav, the highest peak in Slovenia, for great views of the mountains and valleys.
How Do You Say Digital Nomad In Slovenian?
The word for digital nomad in Slovenian is digitalni nomad. It’s basically a borrowed term used to describe those who work remotely and rely on digital technology to do their job while living a nomadic lifestyle.
Slovenian Vocab About Travelling And Working
If you’re planning to come to Slovenia and work as a digital nomad, you might want to be equipped with some essential vocabulary that’s related to this kind of lifestyle. For more Slovenian words and phrases, check out the Ling app.
| English | Slovenian |
|---|---|
| Work | Delo |
| Remote work | Delo na daljavo |
| Computer | Računalnik |
| Internet connection | Internetna povezava |
| Web | Splet |
| Creativity | Ustvarjalnost |
| Mobility | Mobilnost |
| Independence | Samostojnost |
| Digital security | Digitalna varnost |
| Remote access | Oddaljeni dostop |
| Remote collaboration | Sodelovanje na daljavo |
| Self-employment | Samozaposlitev |
| Hourly rate | Plačilo na uro |
| Online store | Spletna trgovina |
| Content | Vsebina |
| Marketing | Trženje |
Frequently Asked Questions About Being A Digital Nomad In Slovenia
Is Slovenia Very Touristy?
Slovenia isn’t a super touristy destination compared to France or Italy. It does, however, attract a fair share of visitors, especially in more popular spots, like Bled and Ljubljana. Still, compared to many other European countries, Slovenia offers a more relaxed and less crowded atmosphere, particularly in its rural areas and smaller towns. So, while it does have tourist attractions, it’s not overwhelmingly touristy.
How To Get Permanent Residency In Slovenia?
To get a residence permit, you’ll need to meet some sort of criteria. You need a reason to stay (work, study, or family), prove that you’ve got the money to support yourself, and you can’t have a criminal record. To get a permanent residency, you need to be living there for five years on a temporary residence permit. People with Slovene heritage or immediate family members of Slovene citizens or permanent residents may qualify for fast-tracked permanent residency.
What Are The Problems With Being A Digital Nomad?
While this can be an amazing way of life, it can come with challenges and problems, as well. Constantly moving around can make you feel isolated and make it hard to maintain a work-life balance, which can lead to burnout. You constantly deal with legal and logistical issues, like visas, taxes, and healthcare. You always need to adapt to different cultures and languages in each new location. This can be either exhilarating or exhausting, because you constantly need to adjust. While the digital nomad lifestyle offers exciting opportunities, it requires careful planning and management of various challenges to get by successfully.
Slovenia Awaits Your Digital Adventure!
Now that we’ve covered everything, all you need to do is pack your bag, your computer, and head to Slovenia for your new digital nomad adventure. As someone who’s lived there my entire life, I can’t stress enough how lovely Slovenia truly is, especially the Slovenian spring. If you’re considering going there to work remotely, I think it’s an awesome idea that you will not regret!
