Overview of Capital Movement in Slovenia
As a member of the European Union (EU) and the Eurozone, Slovenia adheres to the principle of free movement of capital. This allows for the unrestricted transfer of money for investments, real estate purchases, and personal banking between Slovenia and other EU member states. However, for transfers involving non-EU countries (third countries), specific monitoring and anti-money laundering (AML) regulations apply to ensure the stability of the financial system.
Foreign nationals residing in Slovenia are subject to local fiscal transparency rules managed by the Financial Administration of the Republic of Slovenia (FURS). While there are no formal barriers to moving capital, residents must adhere to strict reporting requirements for foreign-held assets and bank accounts to avoid administrative penalties.
Cash Declarations and Transaction Limits
Slovenia enforces specific thresholds for the physical transportation of cash across its borders and the use of cash in commercial transactions. These rules are designed to prevent tax evasion and illicit financial flows.
Border Cash Declarations
Individuals entering or leaving the European Union via Slovenia with 10,000 EUR ($10,500 USD, Jan 2026) or more in cash, or equivalent value in other currencies/assets (such as traveler's checks or gold), must file a written declaration with the customs authorities. When traveling between Slovenia and other EU member states, a declaration is generally only mandatory if specifically requested by police or customs officials during a check.
Limit on Cash Payments
To enhance financial transparency, Slovenian law prohibits businesses from accepting cash payments exceeding 5,000 EUR ($5,250 USD, Jan 2026) for the sale of goods or services. Any transaction above this threshold must be conducted via a bank transfer or a supervised financial institution.
Banking Requirements for Foreigners
Both resident and non-resident foreign nationals are permitted to open bank accounts in Slovenia. The process is relatively standardized across major commercial banks, though specific internal policies may vary.
Essential Documentation
To open a personal or business account, a foreigner typically requires:
- A valid passport or national ID card.
- A Slovenian Tax Number (davčna številka).
- A tax identification number from their country of permanent residence.
- Proof of address (required for resident accounts).
The Slovenian Tax Number can be obtained from any FURS office by submitting form DR-02. This process is usually completed within 1 to 8 days. For more information, visit the official FURS website.
Reporting Obligations and Exceptions
Foreigners who become tax residents of Slovenia (typically by residing in the country for more than 183 days in a calendar year) face specific reporting obligations regarding their global financial activities.
Foreign Account Reporting
All tax residents must report any payment accounts (including digital banks like Revolut, N26, or Wise) held outside of Slovenia to FURS within 8 days of opening the account. Failure to report can result in fines ranging from 200 EUR ($210 USD, Jan 2026) to 1,200 EUR ($1,260 USD, Jan 2026) for individuals.
Investment Capital and FDI
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Slovenia is generally open. However, investments by non-EU entities that involve an acquisition of at least 10% of the share capital or voting rights in specific "critical sectors" (such as energy, water, or health) must be notified to the Ministry of the Economy, Tourism, and Sport for review. This rule applies to both new establishments and the acquisition of existing companies.
Note: Rules regarding capital movement for business purposes may differ based on the specific bilateral investment treaties between Slovenia and the investor's home country.