After five years of temporary residence in Slovakia, foreigners have the right to apply for a permanent (long-term) residence at the relevant department of the Foreign Police. This right applies to all family members who have been granted residence for the purpose of family reunion. Permanent residence is granted for an unlimited period. This means that you are entitled to almost all civil rights as a citizen of the Slovak Republic, e.g. possibility to vote in elections. After 10 years of residence in Slovakia (5 years temporary residence and 5 years permanent residence) you have the opportunity to acquire Slovak citizenship. However, it is necessary to pass general language and knowledge exams in the Slovak language.
If a foreigner has temporary residence permit for the purpose of study or some special activity, s/he must first obtain temporary residence permit for another purpose (for example, for the purpose of employment or business) before s/he is entitled to apply for permanent residence permit.