The Czech Employee Card is a work permit for non-EU nationals who want to work in the Czech Republic for more than 90 days. It’s a biometric card that allows legal employment and can be renewed.
Learn how to apply for and renew the Employee Card in the Czech Republic, and find out the full requirements for working legally under the Employee Card.
What is the Czech Employee Card?
The Czech Employee Card allows non-EU nationals to live and work legally in the Czech Republic for more than 90 days. It is an important document for foreign workers seeking long-term employment in the country. As a biometric card, it holds the holder’s personal details and is updated regularly to keep the work permit valid.
The Employee Card is for non-EU citizens who are not family members of EU citizens. It displays personal information and the code "27" on the front, confirming that it is a work visa for the Czech Republic. It is valid for two years and can be renewed for another two years, allowing workers to extend their stay and employment.
In summary, the Czech Employee Card is the official work visa for non-EU nationals. It is a biometric card with a two-year validity, and it must be renewed to maintain legal employment status in the Czech Republic. The card’s Residency Visa Code 27 on the front confirms its status as a work visa and if the employee card has free access to the labor market or not.
Where Can I Apply for the Czech Employee Card?
You can apply for the Czech Employee Card at the following locations:
- Embassy in Your Country of Origin Ensure you book an appointment in advance, as some countries may have limited availability for Employee Card applications.
- Czech Embassy in Any EU Country Citizens from eligible countries (see the list here) can apply for the Employee Card at any Czech embassy within the EU (e.g., Vienna, Dresden, Budapest, etc.).
- Ministry of Interior (Asylum and Migration Policy Department) If you are already in the Czech Republic with a visa for over 90 days or another type of residency, you can apply for the Employee Card at the Ministry of Interior’s Asylum and Migration Policy department.
Additional Information
- Processing Time: Issuing the Employee Card can take up to 60 days (or 90 days in complicated cases).
- Cost: The application fee is 5000 CZK (or the equivalent in your local currency) when applying at an embassy.
- Work Start Date: Once the Ministry of Interior confirms your eligibility, you can start working immediately after providing your biometric details (within 30 days of arrival). Your employer must confirm your employment before your Employee Card collection appointment.
- Minimum Salary: The minimum gross salary should be at least 20 800 CZK per month.
- Minimum Working Hours: You must work at least 15 hours per week.
- Job Vacancy Duration: Job vacancies must be posted for at least 30 days for foreign workers without free access to the Czech labor market.
Documents Needed for the Employee Card in the Czech Republic
To apply for the Czech Employee Card, you’ll need the following documents:
- A completed application form
- A personal document (passport)
- Proof of accommodation in the Czech Republic for the next 2 years (e.g., tenancy contract, ownership deed, or a landlord’s proof)
- Two ID-sized photographs( size 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm)
- Employment contract with a salary that meets or exceeds the minimum wage in the Czech Republic and Work at least 15 hours per week
- Employment position number that is listed in the Central Register of Vacancies (see the list here) more then 30 days already
- Proof of education (if requested)
Important: Ensure all documents are translated into Czech, and check if the documents don’t need to have legalization or an apostille.
You may also be asked to provide the following documents, although they are not always required:
- Criminal record extract
- Nostrifikace of your education (if applicable)
- Medical confirmation that you do not have a serious illness
Need help with Employee Card renewal or job change?
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How to Renew Your Czech Employee Card
You can renew your Czech Employee Card up to 120 days before its expiration. The renewal process is handled at the Ministry of the Interior (MOI). After approval, a new biometric card will be issued, valid for another two years, based on the length of your work contract.
Documents Needed for Employee Card Renewal
To renew your Czech Employee Card, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Work contract
- Proof of accommodation in the Czech Republic
- Value-added stamps (Kolky) for 2,500 CZK
- Affidavit from employer confirming that your position is active
- Two ID-sized photographs( size 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm)
- Power of attorney if someone is representing you
Processing Time
The Employee Card renewal process can take up to 90 days. Make sure to submit your application on time and ensure all documents are complete to avoid any delay
Pexpats can fully represent you and assist with renewing your Czech Employee Card remotely and online. Learn more here.
Changing Employment on Czech Employee Card
To change jobs on your Czech Employee Card, you must notify the Ministry of Interior at least 30 days before switching employers. You’ll need to provide proof of new employment and a termination letter from your previous employer. You cannot start the new job until the Ministry approves your application.
Note: This does not apply to foreigners with free access to the labor market.