Risk level

Safety and security

Crime

Violent crime is rare. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs, especially in crowded areas such as:

• tourist sites and attractions
• hotels, restaurants and bars
• public transportation
• airports and railway stations

While in Slovenia:

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents in a secure place 
• carry a photocopy of your travel documents rather than the original
• avoid showing signs of affluence
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded and tourist areas
• be wary of unsolicited offers or advice from strangers

On the road

Car thefts and break-ins can occur at gas stations, service areas along the highway, as well as in parking lots.

• Keep your vehicule windows and doors locked at all times
• Keep your belongings out of reach
• Never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
• Use secure parking facilities, especially overnight

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overcharge

Certain establishments, such as bars or nightclubs, may try to overcharge you.

Discussions about overcharging have turned violent. Tourists have been threatened and forced to pay the bill.

• Always confirm the price of an item before ordering
• Do not leave an open tab
• Avoid giving your credit card to bar or restaurant staff
• Check the accuracy of your bill before paying

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave your food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Avoid accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as these items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur sometimes. In Ljubljana, they are usually held on or around Kongresni Trg or Republic Trg. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Swimming

Coastal waters can be dangerous.

In the fall and winter months, waves can be unpredictable, breaking further than expected and causing strong undertows.

• Be cautious when walking on the shore
• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Always take into account warning flags at beaches
• Don’t dive into unknown water, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Follow the advice of local authorities

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know the navigation rules
• follow safe practices for all water activities such as jet-skiing, water-skiing, diving, swimming or fishing
• don’t overload your boat capacity
• carry a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Water safety abroad

Mountain activities

Mountain activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well prepared. Weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

If you intend to go hiking or climbing:

• share your itinerary with a friend or family member if you’re alone 
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• be aware of the presence of dangerous species such as bears

Useful links

• Mountain safety tips - Slovenian Tourist Board
• Helpful advice to all hikers - Police of Slovenia

Road safety

Main roads are generally safe and in good condition. Secondary roads tend to be narrow.

Roads are frequently congested during rush hours, vacations and weekends.

Useful links

• Traffic safety - Police of Slovenia
• Traffic forecast - Traffic Information Centre for Public Roads

Public transportation

Public transportation is generally safe and reliable. The bus network is extensive, and train services connect certain major cities.

Taxis

Taxis are generally safe.

• Use only officially marked taxis
• Confirm fares in advance or insist that the driver use the meter, as you may be overcharged

Getting to and around Slovenia - Slovenian Tourist Board

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Slovenian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Schengen area

Slovenia is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

Useful links

• Schengen area
• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period
Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period
Student visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period

Entry and residence - Ministry of Interior

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Registration

If you plan to visit for 3 or more days, you must register with the local police within 72 hours of arrival if:

• you are staying in a private accommodation; and
• you are not an EU citizen.

Commercial accommodations will generally submit the registration on your behalf.

Failure to register may result in a fine or issues when leaving the country

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•  washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Medical care is very good. Upfront payment may be requested.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Slovenia are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Slovenia to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Slovenia authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Identification

Authorities may request to see your identification at any time.

• Carry a photocopy of valid identitation at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Camping

Wild camping is illegal outside organized campsites, unless the landowner has explicitly granted permission.

You may face heavy fines if you don’t comply.

Drones

Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated.

You must register your drone to use it across the European Union.

If you don’t comply, you may be fined and your drone confiscated.

Useful links

• Civil drones - European Union Aviation Safety Agency
• Drones registration - Civil Aviation Agency Slovenia
• Geographical restrictions on the use of drones - Civil Aviation Agency Slovenia

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Slovenia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Slovenia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Slovenia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Slovenia, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Slovenian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Slovenia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Driving

You must carry an international driving permit.

Slovenian law requires that all vehicles be equipped of:

• a reflective vest
• a warning triangle
• snow tires or snow chains from November 15 to March 15

Cars, vans and motorcycles not exceeding 3,500 kg maximum laden weight require a vignette to drive on all major Slovenian highways and the Ljubljana bypass. Vignettes can be purchased:

• online
• at gas stations
• at post offices
• at newspaper stands

There is a zero tolerance for drinking and driving.

Penalties for traffic offences are severe. You can expect heavy fines if you don’t respect traffic laws. Jaywalkers may also be fined.

Police can collect on-the-spot traffic fines from non-residents. They may also retain your identification document, such as your passport, until payment is made.

Useful links

• E-vignettes - DARS Motorway Company in the Republic of Slovenia
• Driving in Slovenia - European Commission
• More about the International Driving Permit

Money

The currency of Slovenia is the euro.

ATM are rare in mountain regions or small villages.

Carry sufficient cash.

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Slovenia. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains, particularly during spring and summer, can cause flooding and landslides. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers and in mountainous areas
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Weather forecast - Slovenian Environmental Agency

Avalanches

There is a risk of avalanches in mountainous regions, especially following heavy snowfalls. Some may be fatal.

Monitor the avalanche forecasts, particularly if you plan on skiing or practicing mountain activities.

Avalanche forecasting and warnings - European Avalanche Warning Services

Wildfires

Forest fires may occur. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a significant fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
• follow the advice of local authorities

Seismic activity

Slovenia is located in an active seismic zone. Even minor earthquakes can cause damage.

Earthquakes - What to Do?