Foreigners living in Slovenia can find public programs to learn Slovenian and facilitate their integration into the country . Among the main options is the Začetna integracija priseljencev (ZIP) program, known as Initial Immigrant Integration.
This program combines learning the Slovenian language with knowledge about Slovenian society, daily life, and integration.
For certain foreign nationals who meet the established conditions, participation may be free .
This page is an independent information guide. It does not belong to the Government of Slovenia or any of the institutions responsible for the program.
What is the ZIP program?
ZIP stands for Začetna integracija priseljencev and is an integration program primarily aimed at certain third-country nationals who live legally in Slovenia.
Its most interesting feature is that language learning is not presented in isolation. The classes incorporate content that helps participants better understand Slovenian society and navigate common situations. The accredited program comprises approximately 180 hours of training.
If a participant does not pass the corresponding assessment after completing the program, they may be entitled to additional teaching hours under certain conditions. Who can access the course for free? Not all foreigners in Slovenia are automatically entitled to a free course.
The program is aimed at certain citizens of non-EU countries, and eligibility depends primarily on the type of residence or protection the person holds. The profiles that may be eligible include: People with permanent residence permits. Certain people with valid temporary residence permits.
Family members of citizens Slovenians or citizens of the European Union who meet the established conditions.
People with international protection.
People benefiting from certain forms of temporary protection.
Your individual situation must be verified before registering, as there are specific conditions for each category.
How to apply for the free course?
One of the most important points is that free access requires prior verification of your eligibility for the program.
The procedure begins at the administrative unit corresponding to your registered residence. There, you can request a certificate demonstrating that you meet the conditions to participate in the program.
Once you have obtained the certificate, you can contact one of the selected providers to find out about available groups, dates, and the location where the training will be held.
What will you learn during What are the classes?
The program is designed to progressively develop the ability to use Slovenian in real-life situations.
The skills that can be developed include:
- Understanding simple conversations.
- Oral communication.
- Reading and comprehension of texts.
- Writing.
- Vocabulary for everyday situations.
- Communication related to services and common activities.
- Knowledge about Slovenian society.
How many hours does the program have?
The ZIP program includes 180 hours of training .
Furthermore, the regulations allow for additional hours when a person needs to continue their training to achieve the learning outcomes. planned.
There is also a specific Slovenian survival-level program that includes 180 hours and, for eligible participants who need additional training, another 60 hours.
Can the Slovenian exam also be free?
People who meet the program’s requirements may be entitled to take a first official Slovenian proficiency test free of charge.
The level of the corresponding exam will depend on the program and the individual’s circumstances.
This is particularly relevant because certain residency and integration procedures may require proof of language skills.
Another alternative for unemployed foreigners
Slovenia also has a specific pathway through the Employment Service for foreigners registered as unemployed.
This program offers Slovenian as a second language training at the beginner level A1. The training can last approximately 120 to 180 hours, and for those who meet the requirements, both the course and the first exam preparation session may be free. This means there are different ways to study Slovenian depending on each person’s immigration and employment status.
Where are the courses held? The programs are offered by authorized providers in different areas of Slovenia. After obtaining the documentation that proves your eligibility to participate, you can check which provider covers your area and inquire about upcoming start dates.
Why learn Slovenian? For someone planning to stay in Slovenia, learning the language can make many everyday situations easier. It can be useful for communicating at work, completing paperwork, understanding local information, interacting with others, and getting around more easily.
independence.
Furthermore, depending on your immigration status, demonstrating certain language skills may be relevant for some administrative procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any foreigner take the course for free?
No. You must belong to one of the groups entitled to participate and obtain the corresponding documentation. Residency and immigration status are important factors.
Can citizens of the European Union access ZIP for free?
The free ZIP program is primarily aimed at citizens of third countries who meet the established conditions. Citizens of the European Union may have access to other alternatives for learning Slovenian.
Can I participate if I have temporary residence?
Certain people with temporary residence permits may meet the requirements. You must check the duration and category of your permit with the relevant administrative unit.
Does the course include an exam?
Eligible participants may be entitled to a free first attempt at certain Slovenian language proficiency tests.
Where should I start the process?
The first step is to check if you meet the requirements and apply to the administrative unit corresponding to your place of residence for the necessary certificate to participate.
Where can I find official information?
The official Slovenian portal provides information for foreigners on residency and integration and links directly to Slovenian courses for third-country nationals.
See here for the requirements, procedures, and official access to Slovenian courses for foreigners.