Do you need a certified copy of a diploma, but the local matrika (registry office) or district office refuses? This situation is quite possible because from September 1, 2026, a new law No. 78/2026 Z. z. on the certification of documents and signatures started to apply in Slovakia, which changed the usual procedure.
It replaced the previous law that was in effect for over twenty years and clarified the procedures. Now local authorities and district offices have a clear list of powers, and the list of documents they are not allowed to certify has significantly expanded.
Which documents will no longer be certified at the matrika (registry office)?
The main change is the prohibition of certifying copies of documents with security elements that are not visible on the copy. These include watermarks, embossed or dry seals, and optical variable elements.
Diplomas and certificates: According to lawyer Milan Ficek, although the law does not explicitly name diplomas and certificates, they often contain such security elements. Therefore, to certify copies of school certificates or university diplomas, you now need to contact a notary or ask the educational institution to issue a duplicate.
Medical documents: Medical records, medical insurance certificates, or medical certificates will not be certified.
Driver's and other IDs: Driver's licenses, firearms and technical IDs, hunting permits, and securities will also not be accepted for certification.
Copies of copies: Always bring the original document or its officially certified copy for certification. Ordinary photocopies will no longer be accepted.
Blank forms and scanned signatures: Signatures on blank sheets, unsigned contracts, or forms will not be certified. The document must be signed by hand directly in front of the employee performing the certification.
Changes in identity documents
The new law also tightened the requirements for identity documents.
Slovak citizens: For certification, you must present only a valid identity card (občiansky preukaz) or a foreign passport. Military IDs are no longer accepted.
Foreigners: Now only a valid travel document (passport) is required for certification. The residence permit card (pobytová kartička) is no longer suitable for this.
Other important changes
Documents for use abroad: If a document with a certified signature is intended for use outside Slovakia, it is certified by a notary, not by the matrika (registry office) or district office. The only exception is a confirmation of life for the Czech Social Security Administration.
Documents in foreign languages: Signatures are not certified on documents written in any language other than Slovak or Czech.
Multi-page documents: If you certify a signature on a document consisting of several pages (for example, a purchase-sale agreement), the matrika (registry office) is obliged to bind it with a tricolor ribbon in the colors of the national flag, seal the ends with a sticker, and stamp it. No additional fee is charged for this.
Assistance for persons with limited mobility: The new law introduces more flexible rules for certifying signatures outside the office. This can help people with limited mobility.
So, before going to the matrika (registry office) with important documents, check the current requirements to avoid wasting time and getting a refusal.
