When applying for residence in Slovakia, foreigners face several administrative obligations. One of the most important is the medical examination for the foreign police, which results in an official certificate for the foreign police. This document is essential especially for citizens of non-EU countries and serves to confirm that the applicant does not suffer from a serious infectious disease.
In this article, we will look at what the examination includes, how long it takes, what diseases are monitored, and why it is performed in specialized tropical medicine and foreign diseases clinics.
Why is medical examination for the foreign police mandatory?
The purpose of the examination is to protect public health. The Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic requires confirmation that the residence applicant:
- does not have active tuberculosis,
- does not suffer from serious infectious diseases,
- does not pose a risk of disease transmission.
These requirements are common in most European countries.
Who must undergo medical examination?
Most commonly:
- third-country nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence,
- workers and employees from abroad,
- university students,
- family members of Slovak citizens,
- applicants for family reunification.
EU citizens in most cases do not have this obligation.
What does medical examination for the foreign police include?
The examination is performed in specialized facilities – typically in a tropical medicine clinic or at facilities focused on foreign diseases.
It typically consists of:
- Health consultation (anamnesis)
The doctor determines:
- the applicant's origin,
- countries where they lived,
- risk factors,
- previous medical history.
- Blood samples
Laboratory tests focus on infectious diseases that are important for public health, such as:
- HIV,
- syphilis,
- hepatitis,
- some tropical or parasitic infections.
- Chest X-ray
X-ray is used to rule out tuberculosis, which is one of the most monitored diseases during migration.
- Final medical report
After evaluating all results, the doctor issues:
- medical certificate for the foreign police (in Slovak language), which is submitted when applying for residence.
Why specifically a tropical medicine clinic?
Specialists in tropical medicine and foreign diseases have expertise in infections that are not commonly found in our country, such as:
- malaria,
- dengue,
- intestinal parasites,
- tropical fevers,
- rare bacterial infections.
Since many applicants come from areas where these diseases occur, the evaluation must be done by a doctor with specific experience.
How long does it take to get the certificate?
Most clinics issue the certificate approximately 3–5 working days from the collection of biological samples and X-ray examination. Some facilities also offer expedited examination.
How much does medical examination for the foreign police cost?
The price varies depending on the facility, but usually ranges from 120 – 180 €. The amount includes:
- sample collection,
- laboratory tests,
- X-ray,
- medical report.
Where to undergo medical examination for the foreign police?
Examinations are provided by specialized infectology and tropical medicine clinics within various healthcare facilities throughout Slovakia.
In Bratislava, one of the available options is also Poliklinika Mlynská dolina, which offers comprehensive medical services and examinations including blood collection and X-ray, which facilitates the entire process.
Tips for hassle-free examination completion
- Make an appointment in advance - some clinics have waiting periods.
- Bring your passport and documents related to residence.
- Allow time - collection and X-ray take place on the same day, but results take longer.
- Verify accreditation of the clinic so that the certificate is accepted by the foreign police.
Conclusion
Medical examination for the foreign police is an essential part of the process of obtaining residence in Slovakia. Although it may seem complicated, in reality these are relatively simple examinations provided by specialized tropical medicine clinics and facilities dedicated to foreign diseases.
If you choose a facility that provides all steps in one place – from collection to certificate – the entire process will be quick and convenient. One option in Bratislava is also Poliklinika Mlynská dolina, which in addition to other services also provides the necessary examinations for the foreign police.