VAT in Slovakia

1. What is the VAT in Slovakia?

VAT was introduced in Slovakia in March 1993. The VAT rate in Slovakia increased in 2011 to 20%. However, a reduced VAT rate remained for certain goods and services, such as medical and pharmaceutical products. A number of services are exempt from VAT in Slovakia, including financial and postal services, as well as insurance.

2. How can I get a VAT refund in Slovakia?

Foreign companies performing activities in Slovakia may choose to apply for VAT refund from their own country. This is possible by submitting a claim electronically on the official tax portal of the resident country. The claim can also be made in Slovakia, either at the tax authorities’ office or electronically. Invoices are compulsory for the VAT refund application to be valid and they can either be attached at the file or scanned and uploaded on the tax portal.

3. How can I register for VAT in Slovakia?

Companies need to register for VAT in Slovakia right after the company obtains the registration certificate from the Trade Register in Slovakia. The procedure for VAT registration in Slovakia must start before the commencement of commercial activities performed by the company. An application must be submitted with the tax authorities in Slovakia. There is no threshold for VAT registration in Slovakia. The VAT number is usually issued in more than a week if the application is accepted and from that moment on, the company can start its activity.

4. How does intra-community VAT work in Slovakia?

Slovakia is part of the European Union VAT regime since 2004. Importation of goods to Slovakia from EU member states is considered intra-community acquisitions of goods and they are not involved in customs authorities’ control. If the purchase is made from an entity that is registered for VAT in its own country, these transactions are subject to VAT in Slovakia. Supplies of goods from Slovakia to another member state are exempt from VAT in Slovakia.