State Department: Slovenia - Consular Information Sheet, May 7, 1998

Slovenia - Consular Information Sheet
May 7, 1998

Country Description: Slovenia is a moderately developed European nation operating under a parliamentary democracy. Independent since 1991, Slovenia was essentially unaffected by the war in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Tourist facilities are available throughout the country.

Entry Requirements: A valid passport is required. A visa is not required for business or tourist stays of less than 90 days. For information regarding longer stays or other regulations, contact the Embassy of Slovenia at 1525 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC, 20036; tel. (202) 667-5363, or the Slovenian Consulate in New York City; tel. (212) 370-3006.

Medical Facilities: Adequate medical care is readily available. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate payment in cash for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. Travelers have found supplemental medical insurance witformation, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at 1-888-232-3228, or their autofax service at 1-888-232-3299, or their Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov.

Crime Information: Slovenia has a low crime rate. Travelers should, however, take normal precautions as they are sometimes the targets of pickpockets and purse snatchers. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy. The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. It provides useful information on travel and protecting personal security while traveling abroad.

Drug Penalties: U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use, and trafficking of illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Traffic Safety/Road Conditions: Roads are in good condition and are safe for travel. Highways connect some major cities and are clearly sign-posted. Travelers should exercise caution on secondary and tertiary roads as they are sometimes narrow. Since independence, the number of cars in Slovenia has increased, leading to heavy congestion on major routes on weekends and in cities during rush hours. Parking can be difficult in city centers. Travelers should be alert to aggressive drivers both in cities and on highways. In Slovenia, many of the serious accidents occur as a result of high-speed driving. Emergency roadside help and information may be reached by dialing 987 or 112.

Registration and Embassy Location: U.S. citizens are encouraged to register at the U.S. Embassy. Updated information on travel and security within Slovenia may be obtained at the U.S. Embassy, Prazakova 4, 1000 Ljubljana, tel. (386-61) 301-427 or 301-472.

No. 98-51

This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 7, 1997, to update information on CDC telephone numbers and road conditions.