Since we have lately received more and more inquiries from foreigners who wish to start a business in Slovenia, we decided to write this blog to explain the basics. Our goal is to help you understand the rules, give you practical guidance, and maybe take away some of the stress.
One of the first things every new entrepreneur hears about in Slovenia is the cash register system, or in Slovenian, davčna blagajna. For many, the term sounds complicated, but in reality, it is simply a way to make sure your business runs transparently and according to Slovenian law.
The system works like this: whenever you issue a receipt, your cash register communicates with the Slovenian Financial Administration (FURS). FURS immediately confirms the transaction and sends back a unique code called the EOR. This code must then be printed on the customer’s receipt. In short, every sale you make is recorded and verified in real time.
Who needs to use this system? If your company accepts payments in cash, by credit or debit cards, gift vouchers, or other similar methods, you are legally required to use a certified cash register system. This applies to most shops, restaurants, cafés, bars, beauty salons, taxi services, and many other businesses. If, however, your work is based only on bank transfers—for example, if you are a consultant, accountant, or provide IT services—you do not need to use the cash register system.
To start your business in Slovenia properly, the first step is to register your company. You can choose to open a sole proprietorship (s.p.) or a limited liability company (d.o.o.). Registration can be done at one-stop-shop offices (VEM) or through a notary. After registration, you must enter your business into the tax register at FURS. If you plan to hire employees, you will also need to register them for social insurance.
When you are ready to start working with clients, you will need to select a certified POS or online cash register solution and obtain a digital certificate (for example, SIGEN-CA) to connect your system with FURS. Each business location must be reported to the tax authorities, and you must also set up a clear numbering system for your invoices. From that moment on, every receipt must be issued at the time of payment and must include all required details—your company information, tax number, the transaction amount, and of course, the EOR code.
It is very important to avoid common mistakes, such as forgetting to register your premises, using an incorrectly configured system, or issuing receipts without tax confirmation. Even small details, like leaving out the tax number on a receipt, can result in high penalties. That is why we always recommend setting everything up correctly at the beginning and, if possible, consulting an accountant or a certified provider of cash register systems.
Starting a business in Slovenia may seem complicated at first, but once you understand the rules, the process becomes much easier. The most important thing is to make sure everything is set up correctly from the beginning, especially when it comes to the cash register system.
And remember—you don’t have to go through this process alone. We are here to guide you step by step, answer your questions, and make sure your business is fully aligned with Slovenian law. Our goal is to make the journey as simple and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on what really matters: growing your company and creating new opportunities in Slovenia.