Employee Card

The Czech Employee Card is a residence permit for non-EU citizens who want to work in the Czech Republic on a long-term basis. It combines a work permit and a residence permit, allowing the holder to work for a specific employer and legally reside in the country. This pathway is for foreigners who have secured a job offer from a Czech employer. The cardholder may change employers but must apply for a change in advance. The Employee Card is valid for up to 2 years and can be renewed. After 5 years of continuous legal residence, the holder may apply for long-term residence. This pathway does not apply to seasonal work or short-term assignments.

• Hold a valid passport
• Have a job offer from a Czech employer, and the position must be registered with the Czech Labor Office
• The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a Czech or EU citizen (labor market test)
• Possess the education, skills, or experience required for the position
• Have no criminal record
• Have no serious health issues that would affect the ability to work
• Have legal accommodation or the ability to arrange accommodation in the Czech Republic

1. Submit an application at the Czech embassy or consulate in your home country, or if already legally residing in the Czech Republic, at the local Foreign Police department.
2. Prepare and submit all required documents, including the employment contract and employer's documents.
3. Pay the application fee and wait for processing. You may be asked to provide additional documents or attend an interview.
4. If approved, collect the Employee Card within the specified time.
5. After entering the Czech Republic, report to the Foreign Police department within the required timeframe.
6. Start working for the designated employer and comply with residence regulations.

• Ensure the employment contract clearly states salary, job duties, and working hours.
• Understand the labor market test process in advance; your employer must cooperate.
• All non-Czech documents must be officially translated.
• Check the specific requirements of the embassy or consulate before applying, as requirements may change.
• Keep copies of your application and monitor the processing status.
• If changing employers, apply for the change in advance to avoid affecting your residence status.