- High Quality of Life: The Czech Republic offers a high standard of living, with excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
- Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to other Western European countries, the cost of living in the Czech Republic is relatively low, especially in terms of housing and dining.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: The country boasts a rich history and vibrant cultural scene, including beautiful architecture, museums, and festivals.
- Central Location: Situated in the heart of Europe, the Czech Republic provides easy access to neighbouring countries and major European cities.
- Strong Economy: The Czech Republic has a stable and growing economy with diverse job opportunities in various sectors.
- Beautiful Natural Scenery: The country is known for its picturesque landscapes, including mountains, forests, and charming countryside.
- Language Barrier: Czech is the primary language, and while English is commonly spoken in business and tourist areas, it may be less prevalent in everyday life and administrative processes.
- Bureaucracy: The bureaucratic processes can be complex and time-consuming, especially for foreigners dealing with visas and permits.
- Cold Winters: The Czech Republic experiences cold and long winters, which may not be ideal for everyone.
- Limited Job Market for Non-Speakers: Job opportunities may be limited for those who do not speak Czech, particularly in non-international companies.
- Economic Disparities: While the economy is strong, there can be noticeable economic disparities between different regions, with some areas having fewer job opportunities and lower living standards.
- High Tax Burden: The tax rates can be relatively high, affecting disposable income and overall financial planning.
The Czech Republic is open to a diverse range of individuals, including EU/EEA and Swiss citizens who can move without a visa, as well as non-EU/EEA nationals seeking employment, studying, or joining family members, each under specific visa or residence permit categories. It also welcomes entrepreneurs, investors, and those looking to retire or seek asylum.
Czech Republic offers various work visas for non-EU citizens as follows:
Employee Card:
For non-EU/EEA nationals working in the Czech Republic, covering various types of employment.
Blue Card:
For highly skilled non-EU/EEA professionals with a job offer that meets specific salary and qualification criteria.
Intra-Company Transfer Card:
For employees of multinational companies transferred to a Czech branch.
Seasonal Work Visa:
For non-EU/EEA nationals working in seasonal or temporary jobs, typically up to six months.
Long-Term Visa for Business:
For non-EU/EEA nationals planning to start or run a business in the Czech Republic.
Czech Republic offers a residence-by-investment program, primarily through business investment. To qualify, investors must demonstrate a significant investment in a business that benefits the Czech economy, such as starting or acquiring a business with a substantial impact, typically requiring a minimum investment of around €100,000. Eligibility criteria include proving the lawful origin of funds, presenting a viable business plan, and having a clean criminal record. Additionally, investors must show they have sufficient financial resources to cover their living expenses and maintain health insurance. The overall cost includes the investment amount, application fees, legal fees, and other associated expenses, which can total approximately €100,000 or more, depending on the nature of the investment and additional costs.
As of December 2023, Czechia ranks 17th in the VisaGuide.World Digital Nomad Index with a score of 3.11, making it an attractive destination for freelancers. The Czech Digital Nomad Visa is a long-term residence permit allowing freelancers to work independently in the country for up to 365 days. To qualify, applicants must secure a trade license, known as ‘Živnostenské oprávnění,’ and meet specific criteria, such as being over 18, having a flexible job, an online resume (like LinkedIn), a business plan, a website showcasing their work, and a business card. Applications must be submitted at the nearest Czech embassy before entering the country, and the process includes securing a trade license, submitting necessary documents, and passing an immigration interview.
Criteria for
Visa
● Employee Card
Requires a valid job offer, a labour market test, and relevant qualifications.
● Blue Card
Requires a high-skill job offer, a salary of at least 1.5 times the average, and higher education or extensive experience.
● Intra-Company Transfer Card
Requires employment with a multinational company, a transfer to a Czech branch, and a manager, specialist, or trainee role.
● Seasonal Work Visa
Requires a temporary job offer, up to six months of work, and a labour market test.
● Long-Term Visa for Business
Requires a detailed business plan, proof of financial resources, and business registration or intention to register.
To acquire a Czech Republic work permit, an employer must submit the following documents:
- Employment contract
- Labour market test results
- Company registration
- Proof of business operations
- Job description
- Proof of advertisement
- Employee’s qualifications
- Financial documents
- Health insurance
- Employment contract
- Labour market test results
- Company registration
- Proof of business operations
- Job description
- Proof of advertisement
- Employee’s qualifications
- Financial documents
- Health insurance
- High-skill job offer
- Proof of salary (at least 1.5 times the average)
- Higher education or extensive experience documents
- Employment contract
- Health insurance
- Employment contract with the parent company
- Proof of prior employment
- Transfer request
- Job description for the Czech branch
- Health insurance
- Temporary job offer
- Labour market test results
- Proof of qualifications
- Employment contract
- Health insurance
- Business plan
- Proof of financial resources
- Business registration or intention to register
- Employment contract (if applicable)
- Health insurance
Step 1: Preparation
- Collect all required documents specific to the visa type.
- Secure a job offer from a Czech employer if applicable.
Step 2: Visa Application
- Apply for the visa at a Czech embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Submit all required documents with the application.
Step 3: Processing
- Czech authorities review the application and documents.
- Provide any additional information or attend an interview if requested.
Step 4: Decision
- Receive the visa or permit if approved.
- Get notified of the decision and instructions for visa collection.
Step 5: Travel and Arrival
- Travel to the Czech Republic using the granted visa.
- Register with local authorities or the Foreign Police if required.
Step 6: Commence Work
- Begin work according to the terms of the visa.
- Employee Card: Approximately €200 to €300
- Blue Card: Around €250 to €350
- Intra-Company Transfer Card: Approximately €200 to €300
- Seasonal Work Visa: About €100 to €200
- Long-Term Visa for Business: Approximately €200 to €300