Many entrepreneurs – and often even lawyers – focus primarily on choosing the legal form when establishing a company. In practice, however, the first and most important step is to understand precisely what the client intends to do . Defining the business activity and determining whether it is subject to regulation is the foundation of every successful market entry.
Types of Business Activities in Slovakia
1. Free Trades
- do not require professional qualifications or experience
- can be registered through a simple notification process
- the list includes 72 general categories, covering the majority of business activities in Slovakia.
2. Craft Trades
- require vocational certificates or qualification
- e.g. hairdressing, car repair, locksmith services
3. Regulated Trades
- require specific qualifications and often professional experience
- e.g. real estate agency services, optometry, driving school operations
4. Specially Regulated Activities
These do not fall under the Trade Licensing Act, meaning a “license” to operate them is granted by a different authority, not the Trade Licensing Office For example: mining activities (Mining Authority), freight water transport (Transport Authority), healthcare services, operation of gambling activities (Office for the Regulation of Gambling)
The Business Map – More Than Just Legal Analysis
For clients entering the Slovak market – especially from abroad – we offer a unique product: the business map.
What does it include?
Our business map is not a generic document – it is always tailored to a specific client, their country of origin, business plan, and sector. Thanks to this, it is:
- up-to-date,
- practical,
- and comprehensive – covering all legal and organizational aspects needed for a real market entry in Slovakia.
What Third-Country Entrepreneurs Should Know Before Entering the Slovak Market Business conditions within the EU are largely harmonized. However, if you come from outside the EU, be prepared for fundamentally different rules that may involve:
- licensing and permitting processes,
- customs and tax regimes,
- employment of foreign nationals,
- proof of financial resources,
- and even basic issues like leasing premises or obtaining residence permits.
For investors from third countries, the business map offers special added value. It provides a clear action plan and helps eliminate delays, misunderstandings, and unnecessary risks.
Good Decisions Start with a Good Plan
Entrust your business planning to professionals. Our firm offers comprehensive strategic advisory services that combine legal accuracy with practical execution.
➤ Get your personalized business map – contact us today.
Kristína Drábiková, attorney-at-law.
