- Download our Moving to the Czech Republic Guide (PDF)
Citizens of the European Union (EU), EEA countries and Switzerland don’t need a work permit to take up employment in the Czech Republic, seeing as they have a right to work in all EU member states.
Expats from outside the EU will, however, have to apply for a working residence permit for the Czech Republic. This will either take the form of a Blue Card (for skilled work) or an Employee Card (for all workers who will be living and working in the Czech Republic for over three months). Both of these cards are dual-purpose in that they grant the holder the right to reside and work in the Czech Republic for a specified period.
Applying for a work permit for Czech Republic
Those who need a work permit must first secure a job, as permits are only granted to foreigners who have already found employment in the Czech Republic. Before an application can be made, Czech employers must prove to the state that no locals are qualified for the advertised job and submit an application to hire a foreigner to the Czech Labour Authority. The Labour Authority will require business documents and an expat’s employment contract.
Once the company’s application has been approved, expats can move forward with their work permit application. As work permits are tied to a specific job and employer, they are invalidated once foreigners change employers or positions.
Once a work permit has been granted, successful applicants are typically given a special visa for the purposes of entering the country to pick up their work permit in the form of a Blue Card or Employee Card. Work permits are valid for a maximum of two years but can be extended.
Useful links
- The Czech Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs’ Employment Department has more information on working as a foreigner in the Czech Republic.
*Visa and work permit requirements are subject to change at short notice, and expats are advised to contact their relevant embassy or consulate for the latest official details.
Further reading
►For information on legally residing in the country, see Visas for the Czech Republic
►Read Working in the Czech Republic for an overview of the job market
What do expats say about the Czech visa application process?
"The visa process was quite frustrating in the first few years I was here and there weren't really any dedicated agencies set up at the time to help foreigners with it. Like a lot of expats at the time, I depended on Czechs I knew to go with me to offices and interpret for me. I got permanent residency after living here for five years. The bureaucracy for that is more streamlined and I could deal with it to a good degree myself.
When I speak with expats today who are on visas, it seems the visa process is more streamlined now than when I was dealing with it. There are also at least two specialist agencies in Brno set up to help expats navigate their visa paperwork and represent them to the various offices." Learn more about moving to the Czech Republic in our interview with Canadian expat Kevan.
Are you an expat living in Czech Republic?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Czech Republic. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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