Civic associations in the Slovak Republic are governed by Act No. 83/1990 Coll. on the Association of Citizens, as amended (the “Act”). Article 29(1) of the Constitution of the Slovak Republic guarantees the right of free association, so every resident of Slovakia has the right to join with others in societies, associations or other groupings. Under the Act on the Association of Citizens, a civic association is a legal entity. The introductory provisions of the Act state that it does not apply to association in political parties and political movements, to association for profit-making purposes or for ensuring the proper practice of certain professions, to churches and religious societies, or to the exercise of hunting rights. Citizens may establish societies, associations, unions, movements, clubs and other civic associations, as well as trade unions.

Each association has its own objectives, which, along with other matters, are set out in its articles. Civic associations are registered with the Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic, which also maintains a register of all existing civic associations.

Founding a Civic Association in Slovakia

A civic association is one of the most flexible forms of non-profit organisation available in Slovakia. It allows people who share a common interest, whether in culture, sport, education, the environment or community life, to join forces and act together as a legal entity. Understanding the basic steps of founding an association helps you start on the right footing.

Who Can Found an Association

An association is founded by a preparatory committee, which is formed by a minimum number of founders, at least one of whom must be of legal age. The committee prepares the proposal for registration and the statutes. Once the association is registered, both individuals and legal entities may become members, depending on the conditions set out in the statutes.

What the Statutes Should Contain

The statutes are the foundation of the association. They typically set out:

  • The name and registered office of the association
  • Its aims and the activities it will pursue
  • Its bodies, how they are elected and how they make decisions
  • Who acts on behalf of the association
  • The rules for becoming a member and for ending membership
  • How the association manages its assets and finances
  • What happens to the assets if the association is dissolved

Registration

The proposal for registration, together with the statutes, is submitted to the Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic, which keeps the register of civic associations. The association becomes a legal entity on registration. After that, it will usually need a bank account, tax registration and appropriate bookkeeping.

What a Civic Association Is Not

Although an association may carry out some commercial activities in support of its aims, it is not intended as a vehicle for profit-making. Political parties, churches and certain other organisations are also governed by separate rules. If your main goal is business, another legal form may be more suitable.

Thinking of founding a civic association? Contact eTuls and we will help you draft the statutes, prepare the registration documents and support the association once it is up and running.