I have been granted international protection

After you have been granted refugee status or subsidiary protection, you have the right to integration support in accordance with Slovenian law.

The aim of integration support is to help you become independent, participate in everyday life and exercise your rights in Slovenia.

The Government Office for the Support and Integration of Migrants (GOSIM/UOIM) coordinates integration support for beneficiaries of international protection.

What support is available?

Depending on your individual circumstances, integration support may include:

• information and counselling;
• assistance with accessing public services;
• help with finding accommodation;
• Slovene language courses;
• programmes to help you understand life in Slovenia;
• support with education and employment; and
• other integration measures provided under Slovenian law.

Individual Integration Plan

After you have been granted international protection, GOSIM/UOIM will assess your needs and may prepare an Individual Integration Plan together with you.

The plan identifies your integration needs and the support that may help you settle in Slovenia.

It may include measures related to:

• accommodation;
• learning Slovene;
• education and training;
• employment;
• healthcare;
• social inclusion; and
• other areas relevant to your integration.

You are encouraged to take an active role in implementing your Individual Integration Plan.

Your responsibilities

Successful integration is a shared process.

You are expected to:

• actively participate in integration activities offered to you;
• cooperate with the competent authorities;
• respect Slovenian laws; and
• make reasonable efforts to learn Slovene and become familiar with life in Slovenia.

Good to know

The earlier you begin using the available integration support, the easier it may be to access education, employment and other public services.

If you are unsure what support is available, contact GOSIM/UOIM.

ℹ️ Official information

You can find more detailed information about integration on the official website of the Government of Slovenia:

➡️ Integration of beneficiaries of international protection (GOV.SI)

After you have been granted refugee status or subsidiary protection, you are responsible for arranging your accommodation in Slovenia.

Depending on your individual circumstances and the conditions set out in Slovenian law, you may be eligible for accommodation support during your integration.

The Government Office for the Support and Integration of Migrants (GOSIM/UOIM) is responsible for coordinating accommodation support for beneficiaries of international protection.

Accommodation support is intended to help beneficiaries of international protection during their integration into Slovenian society. It is not automatically available to everyone and is subject to the conditions set out in Slovenian law.

What accommodation support is available?

There are two main forms of accommodation support available under Slovenian law:

• accommodation provided during the integration period; or
• financial assistance for private accommodation.

The type of support you may receive depends on your individual circumstances and whether you meet the legal conditions.

GOSIM/UOIM will explain which option, if any, applies to your situation.

Accommodation during the integration period

If you meet the legal conditions, you may be provided with accommodation during your integration.

This accommodation is intended to provide temporary support while you settle in Slovenia and become more independent.

If accommodation is provided, GOSIM/UOIM will explain:

• where you will stay;
• how long the accommodation may be available;
• the services available during your stay; and
• the rules that apply.

Financial assistance for private accommodation

If you choose to live in private accommodation and meet the legal conditions, you may be entitled to financial assistance for private accommodation.

Before signing a tenancy agreement, contact GOSIM/UOIM to find out:

• whether you meet the conditions for financial assistance;
• which documents you need to submit; and
• how to apply.

Your responsibilities

Whether you live in accommodation provided during the integration period or in private accommodation, you are expected to:

• respect your tenancy agreement or house rules;
• keep your accommodation in good condition;
• inform the authorities if your address changes, where required by law; and
• cooperate with GOSIM/UOIM during your integration.

Good to know

Accommodation support is subject to the conditions set out in Slovenian law and may differ depending on your individual circumstances.

If you need accommodation support, contact GOSIM/UOIM as early as possible. They can explain the options available and help you understand which form of support may be available to you.

ℹ️ Official information

You can find more detailed information about accommodation for beneficiaries of international protection on the official websites of the Government of Slovenia:

➡️ Accommodation for beneficiaries of international protection (Infotujci)

➡️ Financial assistance for private accommodation (Infotujci)

➡️ Integration (GOV.SI)

The websites include official information about:

• accommodation during the integration period;
• financial assistance for private accommodation;
• the conditions for receiving accommodation support;
• the rights and responsibilities of beneficiaries; and
• how to apply for accommodation-related support.

💡 Tip: GOV.SI and Infotujci are available in several languages. You can change the language by selecting your preferred language in the top right-hand corner of the page.

After you have been granted refugee status or subsidiary protection, you will receive a biometric residence permit.

This document confirms your right to stay in Slovenia and may also be used to prove your identity when dealing with public authorities and other institutions.

Keep your residence permit safe and carry it with you when required by law.

What documents can I receive?

Depending on your status, you may receive:

• a biometric residence permit; and
• a travel document, if you meet the legal conditions.

The type of travel document available depends on whether you have been granted refugee status or subsidiary protection.

If you are unsure which document you can receive, ask your integration counsellor or the competent authorities.

Renewing or replacing your documents

Residence and travel documents are issued for a limited period and must be renewed before they expire.

If your document is lost, stolen or damaged, report this to the competent authorities as soon as possible.

You can then apply for a replacement document.

Before travelling

If you plan to travel outside Slovenia:

• make sure your travel document is valid;
• check whether you need a visa for the country you plan to visit; and
• make sure you meet the entry requirements of the country you are travelling to.

If you have refugee status, you may apply for a refugee travel document in accordance with Slovenian law.

If you have subsidiary protection, different rules apply. If you are unsure which travel document you can receive, ask your integration counsellor or the competent authorities before making travel arrangements.

Good to know

Your biometric residence permit and your travel document are different documents and serve different purposes.

Always keep your documents up to date and inform the competent authorities if your personal details change, where required by Slovenian law.

ℹ️ Official information

You can find more information about residence and travel documents on the official websites:

➡️ Residence permit and travel documents for beneficiaries of international protection (Infotujci) (available in several languages)

This page explains:

• biometric residence permits;
• refugee travel documents;
• passports for foreigners, where applicable;
• renewing or replacing documents; and
• the authorities responsible for issuing them.

➡️ Integration – GOV.SI (available in Slovenian and English)

The website includes information about the rights of beneficiaries of international protection, including residence documents.

💡 Tip: The Infotujci website is available in several languages. You can change the language by selecting your preferred language in the top right-hand corner of the page. The GOV.SI page is available in Slovenian and English.

If you have been granted refugee status or subsidiary protection, you have the right to healthcare in Slovenia under the same conditions as other people covered by compulsory health insurance.

If you are unsure how to access healthcare or what steps you need to take, your integration counsellor can explain the healthcare system and help you based on your individual circumstances.

Accessing healthcare

To access most healthcare services, you will usually need to:

• be included in the compulsory health insurance system;
• obtain a health insurance card; and
• register with a personal doctor (general practitioner).

Your personal doctor is usually your first point of contact for healthcare. They can provide treatment, prescribe medicines and refer you to specialist healthcare when needed.

Finding a personal doctor

In some parts of Slovenia, it may be difficult to register with a personal doctor because not all doctors are accepting new patients.

If you have difficulty finding a doctor, ask your integration counsellor for advice. They can help you understand the available options and direct you to the appropriate healthcare providers.

Emergency healthcare

In a medical emergency, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Emergency healthcare is available when you need urgent medical treatment.

Good to know

If you move to a different municipality, you may need to register with a new personal doctor.

If you have any questions about healthcare, ask your integration counsellor. They can help you understand the healthcare system and where to seek medical care.

ℹ️ Official information

You can find more detailed information about healthcare and the Slovenian healthcare system on the official websites of the Government of Slovenia and the Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia (ZZZS):

➡️ Integration (GOV.SI) (available in Slovenian and English)

➡️ Healthcare system in Slovenia (GOV.SI) ((available in Slovenian and English)

➡️ Choosing and changing a personal doctor (ZZZS) (currently available in Slovenian only)

➡️ Public healthcare network (GOV.SI) (currently available in Slovenian only)

The websites include official information about:

• compulsory health insurance;
• how to access healthcare services;
• choosing or changing a personal doctor;
• public healthcare providers in Slovenia; and
• healthcare rights for beneficiaries of international protection.

💡 Tip: Some of the official webpages listed above are available in English or other languages, while others are currently available only in Slovenian. The language availability is indicated next to each link.

If you have been granted refugee status or subsidiary protection, you have the right to education in Slovenia under the same conditions as Slovenian citizens.

Children and adults can continue their education in Slovenia.

If you need help understanding the education system or choosing the right school or programme, speak to your integration counsellor.

My child needs to go to school

Children can attend:

• preschool (kindergarten);
• primary school; and
• secondary school.

Children with special educational needs may receive additional support.

Your integration counsellor can help you understand the enrolment process and explain the education options available to your child.

I want to continue my education

You can continue your education in Slovenia through:

• vocational education and training;
• higher vocational education;
• university studies; or
• adult education programmes.

The admission requirements depend on the programme and the educational institution.

If you need advice, speak to your integration counsellor.

Recognition of previous education

If you completed your education outside Slovenia, you may need to have your qualifications recognised before continuing your studies or working in certain professions.

Your integration counsellor can explain the procedure and direct you to the appropriate authority.

Learning Slovene

Learning Slovene is one of the best ways to help you settle in Slovenia.

It can help you:

• communicate in everyday life;
• continue your education;
• find a job; and
• use public services more easily.

More information is available in the Language courses section.

Good to know

If you are not sure which education or training programme is right for you or your child, ask your integration counsellor for advice.

ℹ️ Official information

You can find more detailed information about the Slovenian education system on the official website of the Government of Slovenia:

➡️ Education, Science and Sport (GOV.SI) (available in Slovenian and English)

The website includes information about:

• preschool and kindergarten;
• primary and secondary education;
• vocational and higher vocational education;
• higher education;
• adult education;
• recognition of foreign education; and
• financial support for students.

You can also find information specifically for beneficiaries of international protection:

➡️ Education for beneficiaries of international protection (Infotujci) (available in several languages)

This page explains education rights and provides practical information for people who have been granted international protection in Slovenia.

💡 Tip: The Infotujci website is available in several languages.You can change the language by selecting your preferred language in the top right-hand corner of the page. The GOV.SI page is available in Slovenian and English.

If you have been granted refugee status or subsidiary protection, you have the right to work in Slovenia under the same conditions as Slovenian citizens.

If you are looking for a job, your integration counsellor can explain the support available and help you take the first steps.

Looking for a job

There are different ways to look for work in Slovenia.

You can:

• register with the Employment Service of Slovenia (ESS);
• search for job vacancies online;
• contact employers directly; or
• attend training or employment programmes, if available.

Your integration counsellor can help you understand your options.

Recognition of qualifications

If you completed your education or professional training outside Slovenia, you may need to have your qualifications recognised before working in certain professions.

This is especially important for regulated professions, such as healthcare, education or law.

Your integration counsellor can explain whether recognition is needed in your situation and direct you to the appropriate authority.

Learning Slovene

Speaking Slovene can improve your chances of finding a job and communicating in the workplace.

More information is available in the Language courses section.

Good to know

Finding a job may take time.

Your integration counsellor and the Employment Service of Slovenia can help you understand the labour market and the support available.

ℹ️ Official information

You can find more information about working in Slovenia on the official websites:

➡️ Integration (GOV.SI) (available in Slovenian and English)

This page explains employment rights for beneficiaries of international protection.

➡️ Employment Service of Slovenia (ESS) (available in Slovenian and English)

The website includes information about:

• registering as a jobseeker;
• finding job vacancies;
• employment counselling;
• training and employment programmes; and
• other employment services.

➡️ ENIC-NARIC Slovenia – Recognition of foreign education (available in Slovenian and English)

The website explains when recognition of foreign education is needed and how to apply.

💡 Tip: The GOV.SI, Employment Service of Slovenia (ESS) and ENIC-NARIC Slovenia websites are available in Slovenian and English.

Learning Slovene is one of the best ways to help you settle in Slovenia.

Speaking Slovene can help you:

• communicate in everyday life;
• find a job;
• continue your education;
• use healthcare and other public services; and
• become part of your local community.

If you have been granted refugee status or subsidiary protection, you may be entitled to free Slovene language courses under the conditions set out in Slovenian law.

Your integration counsellor can explain what courses are available and help you enrol.

Why should I learn Slovene?

Learning the language can make everyday life easier.

It can help you:

• speak with neighbours and friends;
• communicate with doctors and teachers;
• understand official information;
• find work; and
• become more independent.

How can I join a course?

If you would like to attend a Slovene language course:

• speak to your integration counsellor;
• ask about the courses available in your area; and
• find out how to enrol.

The type of course available to you depends on your individual circumstances and the conditions set out in Slovenian law.

Practising Slovene

Many organisations in Slovenia offer conversation groups and other opportunities to practise speaking Slovene.

More information is available in the ➡️ Where to seek help in Slovenia as a refugee or an asylum seeker section of this website.

If I already speak some Slovene

Even if you already know some Slovene, you may still benefit from attending a language course to improve your speaking, reading and writing skills.

Your integration counsellor can advise you on the most suitable course.

Good to know

Learning Slovene takes time.

Try to practise every day by speaking with people, listening to Slovene and reading simple texts.

ℹ️ Official information

You can find more information about Slovene language courses on the official websites:

➡️ Slovene language courses for beneficiaries of international protection (Infotujci) (available in several languages)

This page explains who can attend the courses and how to enrol.

➡️ Integration (GOV.SI) (available in Slovenian and English)

The website includes information about integration support, including Slovene language learning.

💡 Tip: The Infotujci website is available in several languages. The GOV.SI page is available in Slovenian and English. You can change the language by selecting your preferred language in the top right-hand corner of the page.

If you have been granted refugee status or subsidiary protection, you may be able to apply for certain members of your family to join you in Slovenia.

The rules depend on your protection status, your family situation and the conditions set out in Slovenian law.

If you are thinking about bringing your family to Slovenia, it is important to get information before starting the procedure.

Who can help?

Several organisations can help you during the family reunification process.

Your integration counsellor can provide general information and explain where to get support.

You can also contact:

• PIC (Legal-Informational Centre for NGOs) for free legal assistance with preparing and submitting your application for family reunification to the Ministry of the Interior; and
• IOM (International Organization for Migration) if you need paid assistance with organising the travel of your family members to Slovenia.

You will usually need documents showing your family relationship and the identity of your family members.

Good to know

The costs of the family reunification procedure and the travel costs of your family members are generally paid by the person applying for family reunification.

If you need help organising your family members’ travel to Slovenia, you can contact IOM.

Learn more

You can find detailed information about:

• who may qualify for family reunification;
• how to apply;
• the documents you may need;
• time limits that may apply;
• legal assistance; and
• what happens after your application is submitted

in the Family reunification section of this website.

ℹ️ Official information

You can find more information about family reunification on the official websites:

➡️ Family reunification for beneficiaries of international protection (Infotujci) (available in several languages)

This page explains:

• who may qualify for family reunification;
• how to apply;
• the documents you need; and
• the procedure in Slovenia.

➡️ Integration (GOV.SI) (available in Slovenian and English)

The website includes information about:

• family reunification;
• legal assistance provided by PIC; and
• travel assistance available through IOM.

💡 Tip: The Infotujci website is available in several languages. The GOV.SI page is available in Slovenian and English. You can change the language by selecting your preferred language in the top right-hand corner of the page.