Europe
Czech Republic immigration and visa guide
The Czech Republic offers the popular Zivno Freelance Trade License Visa (Živnostenský list), Employee Card (Zaměstnanecká karta), and EU Blue Card.
Ministry of the Interior (OAMP - Odbor azylové a migrační politiky)
- Processing time
- 6 – 16 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- No
- Digital nomad friendly
- Yes
Visa options in Czech Republic
Key requirements
- For Zivno: registered Czech Trade License (Živnostenské oprávnění) and minimum proof of funds in bank account (~ CZK 160,000)
- Proof of accommodation verified by Czech landlord signature (Doklad o zajištění ubytování)
- Clean criminal record check with apostille/superlegalization and sworn Czech translation
How to apply for a Czech Republic visa: step by step
- 1
Trade License & Consular Long-Stay Visa Filing
Register provisional trade license at Živnostenský úřad and submit Long-Term Visa (Type D) at Czech embassy.
60 - 90 days
- 2
Embassy Consular Interview & Visa Stamp
Attend consular interview on business plan and receive D-visa sticker.
1 - 2 weeks
- 3
OAMP Foreign Police Registration & Tax Office
Register at OAMP within 3 business days, activate permanent trade license, and register for social security/health insurance.
2 - 3 weeks
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
Can I freelance for foreign clients with a Czech Zivno?
Yes! The Czech Živno allows you to invoice clients in the US, EU, UK, or globally while paying flat tax (Paušální daň) covering income tax, social security, and health insurance in a single monthly payment.
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in Czech Republic. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.
Ministry of the Interior (OAMP - Odbor azylové a migrační politiky)General information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Ministry of the Interior (OAMP - Odbor azylové a migrační politiky) on the official website before applying.