Social security system in Slovakia
The social security system in Slovakia provides protection in various life situations, such as sickness, maternity, unemployment, disability, old age, material need and certain family-related situations. Eligibility for individual forms of social protection depends on the conditions applicable to the particular scheme or benefit.
The system falls primarily under the competence of the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family of the Slovak Republic. The Social Insurance Agency administers the social insurance system, while the Central Office of Labour, Social Affairs and Family and local Offices of Labour, Social Affairs and Family administer various benefits and services in the areas of state social support and social assistance.
Health insurance is not part of the social insurance system. Healthcare and health insurance fall under the competence of the Ministry of Health of the Slovak Republic. For more information, see the Health insurance section.
The social security system in Slovakia comprises three main components:
- Social insurance – a contribution-based system providing protection in situations such as sickness, maternity, unemployment, old age, disability and occupational accidents. It is administered by the Social Insurance Agency. Employees and employers pay compulsory social insurance contributions, while compulsory insurance of self-employed persons is subject to specific statutory conditions. Voluntary social insurance is also available under certain conditions.
- Social assistance – provides support to persons in material need and other difficult social situations. Assistance may take the form of financial benefits, services or other forms of support, subject to the conditions laid down by law.
State social support – consists primarily of benefits designed to support individuals and families in specific life situations, particularly those related to raising and caring for children. These benefits are financed from the state budget. Entitlement depends on the conditions established for the particular benefit, which may include residence and other specific requirements.