Understanding Worker Categories
1. EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals
Citizens from EU, EEA countries, and Switzerland enjoy freedom of movement. They can:
- Work in Czechia without a work permit
- Are required to register with the Foreign Police within 30 days of entering the country (if staying longer than 30 days)
- Must be reported to the Labor Office by the employer within 10 days of employment start
2. Third-Country Nationals (Non-EU Citizens)
Workers from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland must have:
- A residence permit
- A work permit (or combined employee card)
Key Hiring Options for Non-EU Workers
A. Employee Card (Zaměstnanecká karta)
A dual-purpose permit that allows foreign nationals to live and work in Czechia. It is valid for jobs requiring secondary education or higher and is issued for up to 2 years (renewable).
Employer’s Responsibilities:
- Register the vacancy with the Labor Office (Úřad práce)
- If the position remains unfilled by a Czech/EU national in 10–30 days, the employer can offer it to a foreign national
- Provide a binding job offer, including:
- Position title and code (CZ-ISCO)
- Gross monthly salary
- Weekly working hours
- Work location
B. Blue Card
For highly skilled professionals with a university degree and a job offer that meets the minimum salary threshold (usually 1.5× the national average).
C. Intra-Company Transfer Card
For managers, specialists, or trainees transferred within multinational companies.
D. Short-Term Employment (up to 90 days)
Foreigners can be employed temporarily with a short-term Schengen visa and an employment permit, particularly under bilateral agreements (e.g., with Ukraine, Mongolia, Philippines, etc.).
Hiring Process for Non-EU Nationals: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Job Posting and Labor Market Test
- Post the job opening with the Czech Labor Office
- Wait 10–30 days for potential local/EU candidates
- If unfilled, offer the job to a foreign applicant
Step 2: Submit Job Details to Central Vacancy Database
- The job must be listed in the database of vacancies suitable for employee card holders
Step 3: Application by the Foreign Worker
- The worker applies for an employee card at the Czech embassy/consulate in their home country
- Required documents:
- Valid passport
- Employment contract or job offer
- Proof of accommodation in Czechia
- Professional qualifications or diploma recognition
- Health insurance (prior to residency approval)
Step 4: Processing and Decision
- The application is processed by the Ministry of the Interior
- In urgent cases or skilled sectors, fast-track programs may apply
Step 5: Entry and Start of Employment
- Once approved, the foreign worker can enter Czechia
- They must:
- Register with the Foreign Police within 3 days of arrival
- Provide biometric data for the employee card
- Employers must report the start of work to the Labor Office within 10 days
Best Practices for Employers
- Plan early: Bureaucracy can cause delays; start the process 3–6 months in advance
- Use verified agencies: Partner with licensed labor agencies for recruitment support
- Ensure compliance: Track permit expiration, renewals, and reporting obligations
- Provide support: Assist foreign workers with relocation, housing, and integration
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Employers who fail to comply with Czech labor and immigration regulations may face:
- Fines up to CZK 10 million
- Prohibition from employing foreign nationals
- Reputational damage and loss of legal hiring rights
Conclusion:
Hiring foreign workers in Czechia can help bridge labor shortages and diversify your workforce, but the process must be handled carefully and in line with national laws. Whether you’re recruiting from the EU or third countries, understanding the types of permits and following proper procedures will ensure a smooth hiring experience.
By being proactive, organized, and compliant, Czech employers can build strong international teams and remain competitive in today’s global labor market.