The breakdown of immigration is not always the same

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of Na Slovensku Aj Po Anglicky podcast with support Fusun continues a series on the immigration experience in Slovakia. In this episode, we’ll see how immigrants navigate the legal immigration process through setbacks, surprises, and terrifying uncertainties.

Legal immigration in Slovakia, like most other countries, is a very diverse process. The immigrant’s country of origin, purpose of stay, and other legal and economic factors may facilitate or hinder this process. For example, immigrants arriving from other her EU member states can often easily obtain residency in Slovakia. These immigration processes and requirements have been simplified and streamlined in accordance with EU law.

Perhaps the most complicated case is that of asylum seekers. Young Turkish student Yunus certainly did. As he was nearing the end of his Erasmus program in Bratislava, his father was arrested on suspicion of participating in his 2016 coup attempt in Turkey. Fearing that returning would risk his arrest, Yunus decided to apply for asylum in Slovakia. The process was fraught with disapprovals and uncertainties, but after two and a half years, his application was finally approved.

For temporary and permanent residents, immigration matters often begin and end in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the department that oversees their cases. Migrants often complain about the lack of English-speaking police and rude interactions, to say the least. These communication challenges often require immigrants to bring along interpreters who may not understand the intricacies of the immigration process. Sometimes these advocates are provided by their employer, but others may need to hire a professional or ask friends and family for help. So does Elle from Malta, who turned to her Slovak partner’s cousin for help.

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Unfortunately, the problem goes beyond communication failure. Obtaining the correct information and documentation for each unique case can be difficult. Each foreign police officer has a different interpretation of the law and may require different paperwork, which can confuse even the most prepared. may become. Craig, a US native who had just moved from Zambia, was sent to Berlin only to find out that the required paperwork was in South Africa. Of course, this roundabout route is expensive and completely impossible for some people.

Thankfully, these issues are only temporary setbacks for most immigrants. They celebrate the arrival of their ID cards and focus on enjoying life in Slovakia. And the headache is worth enduring.

Guests: Craig Williams, Yunus, Aubrey Mathis, El Ibbotson