Whether planning a short visit or a permanent stay in the Czech Republic, expats should be aware that visa laws differ according to nationality. The applicant's nationality will determine the processes they need to follow and which visas they are eligible for in the Czech Republic.
Short-term visas for Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is a Schengen country, so nationals of countries that are part of the Schengen Agreement, as well as a select few other nationalities, need not apply for visitors visas for a stay of 90 days or less. This includes citizens of the EU and the EEA as well as Switzerland, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and others.
By the end of 2022, non-EU citizens will need to apply online for an ETIAS visa waiver before traveling to the Czech Republic. It will only take a few minutes to fill in and will automatically be linked to the applicant's passport.
Expats not eligible for visa-free entry will need to apply for a Schengen visa prior to arrival at their nearest Czech embassy or consulate in order to be granted entry to the Czech Republic.
Schengen visas entitle their holders to 90 days of travel within a six-month period to any Schengen-area country, including the Czech Republic. If travelling to multiple destinations, expats should be sure to submit the Schengen visa application to the consulate of the country in which they will spend the largest amount of time.
While in the country, expats can apply to extend the validity of their Schengen visa by a further 90 days.
Long-term residence permits for Czech Republic
Non-EU nationals staying in the Czech Republic for a year or more will need to obtain a long-term residence permit. This must be for a specific purpose such as work, study, research or family unification. Long-term residence permits are renewable and are granted for a maximum of two years.
Those intending to work will have to apply for an Employee Card or a Blue Card. These are primarily work permits but serve a dual purpose as long-term residence permits. A Blue Card is issued for positions requiring a high qualification, while an Employee Card is issued for positions that do not require a high qualification.
EU nationals are entitled to live and work in the Czech Republic without needing to apply for work permits or resident permits.
Certificate of temporary residence in Czech Republic
To stay for more than 90 days in the Czech Republic, EU citizens must report their intentions to the Foreign Police Department. They are also entitled to apply for a certificate of permanent residence if they wish but it is not a precondition of their stay.
Permanent residence permit for Czech Republic
Permanent residency can be applied for by both EU and non-EU nationals after five years of continuous residence in the country. Once granted, a permanent residence permit is valid for 10 years.
*Visa requirements can change at short notice and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.