Business Environment in Slovenia
Slovenia offers a stable, transparent, and digitally integrated environment for foreign investors. The country utilizes a centralized system known as SPOT (Slovenska poslovna točka), or Slovenian Business Point, which serves as a one-stop-shop for company registration and administrative procedures. Most registration services at SPOT points are provided free of charge, though notarized documents may incur fees depending on the business structure.
Common Legal Forms for Foreigners
Foreign nationals typically choose between two primary legal structures when establishing a business in Slovenia. The choice depends significantly on the founder's nationality and long-term residency goals.
Limited Liability Company (d.o.o.)
The druzba z omejeno odgovornostjo (d.o.o.) is the most frequent choice for foreign investors. It is a separate legal entity where the liability of shareholders is limited to their capital contributions.
- Minimum Share Capital: 7,500 EUR ($7,875 USD, Jan 2026). These funds must be deposited into a Slovenian business bank account during registration.
- Ownership: Can be 100% foreign-owned by individuals or legal entities.
- Management: Requires at least one director (manager). There is no requirement for the director to be a Slovenian resident.
Sole Proprietorship (s.p.)
A sole proprietorship (samostojni podjetnik) is a simpler structure where the individual is personally liable for all business debts. For foreigners, specific restrictions apply:
- EU/EEA Citizens: May register an s.p. under the same conditions as Slovenian citizens.
- Non-EU Citizens: Generally cannot register as an s.p. until they have lived in Slovenia legally and continuously for at least 12 months.
The Registration Process
Starting a business involves several sequential steps, starting with the acquisition of Slovenian identification numbers. The process typically takes approximately 1 to 2 weeks once all documentation is submitted.
- Obtain a Slovenian Tax Number: All foreign founders and managers must obtain a davčna številka from the Financial Administration (FURS) using the DR-02 form.
- Personal Identification Number (EMŠO): This is usually assigned automatically during the tax number or residence application process.
- Business Address and Consent: You must have a physical address in Slovenia. If you do not own the property, you must provide a certified statement of consent from the owner.
- Registration at a SPOT Point: Founders must visit a SPOT point in person (or use a notary) to sign the act of establishment.
- Capital Deposit: For a d.o.o., the minimum capital of 7,500 EUR ($7,875 USD, Jan 2026) is paid into a temporary bank account. Once registered, this is converted into a permanent business account.
Requirements for Non-EU Investors
While any non-EU national can own a company in Slovenia, they require a Single Residence and Work Permit to live in the country and actively manage or work for that company. To obtain this permit as a business owner, the company must demonstrate "active business" through one of the following criteria:
- Investment: An investment of at least 50,000 EUR ($52,500 USD, Jan 2026) into the company's fixed assets (e.g., real estate, equipment).
- Employment: Maintaining at least one full-time employee (EU citizen) for a minimum of 6 months.
- Turnover: Demonstrating a monthly revenue of at least 10,000 EUR ($10,500 USD, Jan 2026) for 6 consecutive months.
For more detailed information on residence permits, visit the official Information for Foreigners portal maintained by the Slovenian government.