Opening a Branch or Subsidiary in Slovenia
If your business already operates abroad and you want a presence in Slovenia, you don't have to start a company from scratch. There are two routes: a branch (no new legal entity) or a subsidiary (a new, separate legal entity). We help you choose the right option and handle it end to end.
Get a consultationImportant to know
If the parent company is registered outside the EU, it generally needs to have existed for at least three years to open a branch or subsidiary in Slovenia. Having a branch or a share in a company does not by itself give a right to a residence permit — that is obtained by whoever manages the structure and is officially employed by it.
Who a branch or subsidiary suits
An existing business outside the EU
Needs a presence in the European Union for working with European partners and settling payments in euros.
Companies expanding their market
Opening a representative office or a full division in Slovenia to enter the EU market.
Owners planning to relocate
A manager or co-owner wants to personally run the Slovenian structure and obtain a residence permit.
Corporate groups
Building a European structure as part of an international holding.
Branch or subsidiary — which to choose
| Branch (podružnica) | Subsidiary (d.o.o.) | |
|---|---|---|
| Legal status | Not a separate legal entity — part of the parent company | A separate Slovenian legal entity |
| Liability | The parent company bears full liability for the branch's obligations | Liability is limited to the company's capital |
| Share capital | Not required — it isn't a new legal entity | From €7,500 |
| Registration | At AJPES, roughly 7–15 working days once the documents are ready | Via eVEM, 1–3 weeks (up to 5 weeks if a notarial deed is required) |
| What it can do | The same activity as the parent company | Any activity under its articles — not necessarily the same as the parent company |
| When it fits | A temporary or limited presence, without the need for full independence | Long-term growth in the EU, separate contracts and financial independence |
Both forms are registered through the Slovenian AJPES register. The final choice usually depends on whether the Slovenian structure needs full legal and financial independence.
Stages of opening a branch or subsidiary
Choosing the form
We compare your business goals and determine whether a branch or a subsidiary fits.
Parent company documents
An extract from the trade register, the articles of association, the decision to open a branch/subsidiary — apostilled and translated.
Appointing a representative
For a branch — a responsible person in Slovenia; for a subsidiary — a director.
Tax number and account
Obtaining a davčna številka, opening an account, paying in the capital (for a subsidiary).
Registration at AJPES
Filing the documents and entering the Slovenian company register.
Residence permit for the manager
If the manager plans to live and work in Slovenia — an employment contract and filing for the single permit.
Frequently asked questions
What should I choose — a branch or a subsidiary? +
How long does registration take? +
Is the parent company liable for the branch's debts? +
Does opening a branch give the right to a residence permit? +
Does the parent company need to exist for a certain period? +
Want to open a branch or subsidiary in Slovenia?
The consultation is free and is handled personally by a SLO-WAY expert.
Related topics: business relocation to Slovenia, registering a new company, a residence permit through your own company.