➡ 2024 UPDATE
The Czech Republic has introduced the Digital Nomad Program, operating under Act No. 326/1999 Coll., with the aim of bolstering the country’s economy. Launched on July 1, 2023, the program targets remote workers, freelancers, and employees of foreign companies who can telecommute. Eligibility criteria vary depending on employment status, encompassing factors like education, work history, and income thresholds. Oversight of the program lies with the Ministry of Industry and Trade, responsible for inclusion decisions, while residence permits are processed by the Ministry of Interior within 45 days of application. Family members may also apply under specific conditions. The initiative seeks to harness foreign expertise, foster flexible employment, and enhance the nation’s economy through indirect consumption taxes.
Nomad Visa Czech Republic 2024
The Czechia digital nomad visa offers several advantages for those seeking to establish a working base in Europe. Notably, it allows freelancers to work in the Czech Republic for up to a year, with the option to renew it as a residence permit for an additional two years.
One of its key benefits is the flexibility it provides: visa holders can travel to all 26 Schengen countries in Europe without the need for additional visas, enabling seamless travel and work across the continent.
Moreover, it stands out as a cost-effective option. With an annual trade license fee set at just 1,000 CZK (approximately $45 USD), it presents a more economical choice compared to other visa options.
To be eligible for the digital nomad visa, applicants must hold citizenship from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan, the U.K., or the United States.
Additionally, applicants must have a university degree or higher in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), or have a minimum of three years of work experience in the IT industry.
If employed by foreign companies, applicants must also meet the minimum income requirement of CZK 60,530 per month (approximately $2,710 at current rate).
How to Apply for Czechia’s Long-Term Residence as a Digital Nomad
Step 1: Select the embassy for application Contact the embassy of your choice via email or phone to inquire about visa application acceptance and appointment availability. Refer to the official website of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic for a complete list of Czechia embassies and consulates worldwide.
Step 2: Gather required documents Ensure all documents are either translated into Czech or completed in Czech. Refer to the following paragraph for a comprehensive list of required documents.
Step 3: Prepare for the immigration interview Be ready to discuss your purpose of stay, business plan, and connection to Czechia during the immigration interview.
Step 4: Submit your application Apply at the embassy and await a response. The official processing time is 90-120 days, though this may vary depending on various factors.
Step 5: Register with the Foreign Police Upon approval, you’ll receive a visa sticker in your passport permitting entry to Czechia. Within three days of arrival, register with the foreign police.
Documents Required for Czech Republic Long-Term Residence as a Digital Nomad
To apply for the Czech Republic digital nomad visa, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport from your home country meets the criteria of not being older than 10 years, having at least two blank pages, and being valid for at least another 1.5 years.
- Visa Application Form: Complete the visa application form accurately, print it out, and sign it.
- Recent Photos: Provide two recent photos that meet the specifications for Czech visa applications.
- Trade License: Obtain a trade license online through the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, enabling you to work as a freelancer or contractor in Czechia.
- Proof of Accommodation: Arrange accommodation for at least one year in Czechia. This can be evidenced by a rental contract, confirmation from a hotel or hostel, or an invitation letter from a friend or relative residing in Czechia.
- Financial Proof: Demonstrate sufficient financial means by maintaining at least 149,000 CZK or 6,100 USD in your bank account. Provide a bank statement or a letter from your bank as evidence.
- Medical Insurance: Obtain medical insurance covering your entire stay in Czechia and the entire European territory. The insurance policy must offer a minimum coverage of 60,000 EUR or 1.5 million CZK.
- Criminal Background Check: Obtain a criminal background check from your home country and any other country where you have resided for more than six months in the past three years. Ensure that the document is apostilled or legalized by the relevant authorities.
Remember: All documents must be translated into Czech or completed in Czech by a certified translator. Additionally, it’s essential to double-check the requirements and ensure all documents are prepared accurately before submitting your application.
Costs Czech Republic Long-Term Residence
The expenses related to obtaining the Czech Republic digital nomad visa can vary based on several factors, including the nature of your trade, embassy charges, translation fees, and insurance expenses. Here’s a detailed breakdown of potential costs associated with the Zivno visa application:
- Trade License Fee: The annual fee for a trade license is 1,000 CZK (approximately $45 USD).
- Embassy Fees: For visa application, the embassy charges 2,500 CZK (about $113 USD) for a single-entry visa and 5,000 CZK (around $226 USD) for a multiple-entry visa.
- Translation Costs: Translation fees for required documents may vary depending on the translator and the number of pages. Typically, it ranges from 300 CZK to 600 CZK per page ($14 USD to $27 USD).
- Insurance Expenses: Medical insurance covering your entire stay in Czechia and Europe can range from 1,500 CZK to 3,000 CZK per month ($68 USD to $136 USD), depending on the insurance provider and coverage.
Taking into account these factors, the total cost for applying for the Zivno visa ranges from 10,000 CZK to 20,000 CZK ($453 USD to $906 USD). However, it’s important to note that these figures are estimates and may vary depending on individual circumstances and other factors.
The timeline for securing Czechia’s digital nomad visa can fluctuate based on various elements such as your nationality, the embassy’s processing time, trade specifics, and document availability. Generally, the overall process duration for obtaining the Zivno visa spans from four to six months.
The income tax rate in Czechia is 15%, plus a 7% solidarity surcharge for income above 1.5 million CZK (~ $68,000 USD) per year.