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2 ways to enter

Czech Republic visas

Czech Republic work visa

EU single market citizens can work in Czechia without a visa. Other travellers need an applicable work route; a visa-free short visit does not allow work.

Ways to get a Czech Republic work visa

  2. Van Der Elst temporary work arrangement

    Other permit

    Workers from outside the EU single market who are employed within it and temporarily work in another EU single market country for the same employer, subject to conditions.

    Stay
    Temporary work; no specific duration is given.

Who needs it

Travellers outside the EU single market need an applicable permission or qualifying work arrangement.

Who doesn't

EU single market citizens can enter, live and work in Czechia without a visa.

Good to know

  • Czechia does not allow work under the visa-free short-stay rules.
  • Long-stay visas and residence permits have country-specific conditions.
  • Czechia also has a working holiday route for eligible young adults.
  • Detailed Czech employment visa requirements are not specified here.

Questions

Do I need a work visa for the Czech Republic?

Travellers outside the EU single market need an applicable permission or qualifying work arrangement. EU single market citizens can enter, live and work in Czechia without a visa.

What are the ways to get a work visa for the Czech Republic?

There are 2 options: Work under free movement (no visa at all); Van Der Elst temporary work arrangement (a special permit).

Who can go to the Czech Republic without a work visa?

Citizens of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

What rules do I have to follow on a the Czech Republic work visa?

Czechia does not allow work under the visa-free short-stay rules. Long-stay visas and residence permits have country-specific conditions.

Does my passport change whether I need a work visa for the Czech Republic?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Czech Republic visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a work visa for the Czech Republic be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest the Czech Republic work visa rules?

On the Czech Republic's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my work visa once I am in the Czech Republic?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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