Czech Permit ChecklistYour personal document list for a Czech residence permit

Permit guides

Employee card: documents checklist

zaměstnanecká karta

To work for an employer in Czechia for more than 3 months. Answer a few short questions. The permit is already chosen.

Step 1 of 5

What is your citizenship?

Your passport country. It decides which permits apply to you and how foreign documents must be verified.

Quick picks

Documents at a glance

Applying inside Czechia

Applying at an embassy

Extension

Fees and processing time

CaseFeeProcessing timeValid for
Applying inside Czechia 2,500 CZK. Paid by payment card only, at the Ministry office. source (opens in a new tab) 60 days. 90 days in especially complex cases or if the Labour Office gives a binding opinion. The time stops while you are asked to complete the file. Up to 2 years. Not longer than your contract or work permit.
Applying at an embassy 5,000 CZK. Consular fee, paid at the embassy in local currency or by card. source (opens in a new tab) 60 days. 90 days in especially complex cases or if the Labour Office gives a binding opinion. Up to 2 years. Not longer than your contract or work permit.
Extension 2,500 CZK. Paid by bank transfer or by payment card at the Ministry office. source (opens in a new tab) 60 days. The time stops while the proceedings are interrupted. Up to 2 years. Not longer than your contract or work permit.

How to prepare your application

  1. Choose your citizenship, the permit and where you apply.
  2. Collect each document on the list. Check its age, original or copy, translation and apostille.
  3. Book an appointment or prepare to send the application in time.
  4. Pay the fee in the way the office accepts.
  5. After approval, give biometrics and collect your card in time.

Questions and answers

How much does an employee card cost?

Inside Czechia the fee is 2,500 CZK, paid by payment card at the Ministry office. At an embassy the consular fee is 5,000 CZK.

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How long does the decision take?

60 days, or 90 days in especially complex cases. The time stops while you are asked to add documents.

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Can I apply inside Czechia?

Yes, if you already hold a long-term visa or a long-term residence permit (with some exceptions such as a seasonal work visa). Otherwise you apply at a Czech embassy.

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When can I start working?

If the job came from the vacancy register, after you receive the Confirmation of meeting the conditions (Potvrzení o splnění podmínek). With free access to the labour market or a work permit, the rules are different.

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When should I apply for an extension?

At the earliest 120 days before the card expires and at the latest on its last day.

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What if I change employer?

Without free access to the labour market you report the change before you start, and you can start at the earliest 30 days later. With free access you report within 3 working days after you start.

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Sources

Other permits