New Newark to Ljubljana Flights Start May 2027 as Slovenia Draws US Travellers

United Airlines plans to start nonstop flights between Newark Liberty International Airport and Ljubljana on 12 May 2027, adding a direct link between the United States and Slovenia. The news comes as the small European country, with a population of more than 2 million people, draws unusual attention online from travellers.

Key facts

• United's Newark (EWR)–Ljubljana route begins 12 May 2027, operating four times per week on Boeing 767-400ER aircraft, according to the airline.
• US tourists do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days, according to the U.S. Embassy in Slovenia.
• Slovenia is rated Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions by the U.S. Department of State — its lowest travel advisory level.
• Slovenia introduced a temporary digital nomad residence permit in November 2025, according to the country's Ministry of the Interior.
• The country has a population of more than 2 million people, according to the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia.

What are the new flights?

United Airlines will fly nonstop from Newark Liberty International Airport to Ljubljana four times per week using Boeing 767-400ER aircraft. The route is scheduled to start on 12 May 2027, according to the airline.

Do US travellers need a visa?

No. American tourists can visit Slovenia without a visa for stays of up to 90 days, according to the U.S. Embassy in Slovenia.

Is Slovenia considered safe?

The U.S. Department of State places Slovenia at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, its lowest travel advisory category. The department describes the country as "generally a safe destination for travelers," and advises visitors to take standard precautions against petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching. These offences are more common in tourist areas, in city centres and near transportation hubs.

What about digital nomads?

Slovenia introduced a temporary digital nomad residence permit in November 2025, according to Slovenia's Ministry of the Interior. The permit makes it easier for non-EU citizens to live in and work from the country for an extended period. A Google report last year ranked Slovenia the seventh most popular destination for digital nomads.

What this means for travellers

Travellers from the United States who want to see Ljubljana will have a direct option from Newark from 12 May 2027, and they can plan a stay of up to 90 days without arranging a visa. Those considering a longer stay to work remotely can look at the temporary digital nomad residence permit introduced in November 2025. Standard precautions against petty crime are advised in tourist areas and transport hubs.

United's Ljubljana service is due to begin on 12 May 2027, four times per week.