All Drone Laws in Slovakia for 2023 (Complete Guide)

Following are the national rules for flying a drone in Slovakia:

1. Keep your drone within the visual line of sight of an observer who is next to you or in direct communication with you to avoid any incident.
2. The drone must be flown in daylight. You can only fly your drones at night if they have proper lighting.
3. The drone must be flown at a distance of 50 meters from people, infrastructures, or vehicles.
4. Drones cannot be used as cargo, air transport, luggage, or mail.
5. If your drone has a camera you have to get it registered.

Drone Laws for Recreational drone operations:

To fly as a hobbyist, everything is pretty much cut in your favor. No license is required, just an understanding that you know what you are doing. 

If your drone weighs over 7 Kg, this does not apply. If you intend to fly close or inside a restricted area, you might want to seek authorization. Drones weighing over 20 Kg should be:

• Registered online
• Have insurance coverage
• Flight licenses

Other than this you just have to observe the general rules mentioned above.

Drone Laws for Commercial drone operations:

Any drone with a camera capable of recording is considered a commercial drone. As a commercial category, there is paperwork and other conditions you must adhere to:

• As a commercially operating pilot, you must have registered your drone.
• You must create an operating manual.
• You must obtain permission from the Department of Defense
• You must obtain a Slovakia license.
• You must have to register for 350 euro annual insurance coverage.
• The photos you’ll take from your drone have to be reviewed by the topographic department.
• Keep a flight log

How can I obtain a Permit as a Commercial drone operator in Slovakia?

As per the EU, registration is mandatory for every UAS operator. To obtain a permit to fly a commercial drone, you must pass a theoretical and practical examination administered by the Transport Authority.  

To pass the theoretical exam, at least 75% of the questions in each subject must be answered correctly.

Once you pass the theoretical test, you’ll have to go through a practical examination. To clear this part you have to prove your abilities as a competent operator to the transport office employee.

How can I get my drone Registered in Slovakia?

To get your drone registered for commercial operations, you have to fill out an application that requires the following details:

• Your full name
• Contact Details
• Drone serial numbers
• Purchase invoices
• Photos etc.

Normally this application is tailored for Slovaks and Slovak residents, however, there seems to be a caveat that allows approval when requested in special circumstances. To be on the safe side, make an inquiry to the contact information mentioned above. 

Am I required to have insurance to fly a drone in Slovakia?

If you’re flying your drone for commercial purposes, you must have insurance that covers you and your drone. You don’t need any insurance by law if your drone falls in the recreational category. However, if you cause any harm to the property or injury to anybody, you will be held liable. So it is always beneficial for you to get yourself covered by third-party liability insurance to cover such incidents.