Czech Republic Digital Nomad Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Legally live and work in the heart of Central Europe
- Access to the entire Schengen Area for travel and tourism
- Option to apply for a 'Zivnostensky List' (Trade Licence)
- Vibrant expat hubs in Prague and Brno with excellent infrastructure
- Relatively low cost of living compared to Western Europe and North America
- Path towards long-term residency and European PR after 5 years
Processing time
90-120 days
The 90-120 day window accounts for the time needed to obtain the trade licence before the visa interview.
Estimated cost
~$600 - $1,000+
- Visa Application Fee$110 (2,500 CZK)
- Notary & Translation Fees (Est.)$40 - $100
- Annual Health Insurance (Estimated)$400 - $800
Requirements
- Citizenship of an eligible country (for the streamlined program) or a valid business case
- Evidence of a university degree or high-school diploma (education requirements vary)
- A minimum of 3 years of professional experience in your field
- Proof of funds (at least 150,000 CZK or equivalent in a bank account)
- A clean criminal record from your country of origin and any country lived in for 6+ months
- Proof of 'Zivnostensky List' (Czech Trade Licence) registration
- Secured accommodation for the duration of the stay (certified by the landlord)
- Comprehensive health insurance from a provider approved for use in the Czech Republic
- Willingness to pay monthly social security and health insurance contributions
- Interview at an embassy or consulate outside of the Czech Republic
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport (must be valid for at least 3 months beyond visa expiry)
- Proof of income (bank statements for the last 6 months)
- Proof of accommodation in the Czech Republic (lease agreement)
- Clean Criminal Record Certificate from your home country (apostilled)
- Medical insurance certificate from a comprehensive provider (e.g., PVZP)
- Proof of business activity (Trade Licence or 'Živnostenský list')
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of purpose (Business plan or contract with clients)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check Eligibility
Confirm you are from an eligible country or qualify for the standard Zivno business visa.
- 2
Prepare Documents & Translations
Collect your criminal record check and bank statements; ensure they are apostilled and translated into Czech by a certified translator.
- 3
Obtain a Trade Licence
Register for a Czech Trade Licence (Zivnostensky List) through a local proxy or by visiting a Trade Office in person.
- 4
Secure Czech Accommodation
You must provide a 'Proof of Accommodation' form signed by your landlord with a notarised signature.
- 5
Embassy Interview
Book an appointment at a Czech Embassy or Consulate (usually outside the CR) to submit your application and attend an interview.
- 6
Awaiting Decision
Wait for the Ministry of the Interior to process your application, which typically takes 60 to 90 days.
- 7
Entry and Registration
Once approved, collect your visa, travel to the Czech Republic, and report to the Foreign Police within 3 working days.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Always use a certified Czech translator for your documents; non-certified translations will be rejected.
- Ensure your bank statement shows your name exactly as it appears on your passport.
- Be prepared for 'The Interview'—officers will ask detailed questions about your business plan and clients.
- Register with the Social Security and Tax offices immediately after your visa is approved to avoid fines.
- The 'Proof of Accommodation' must be on a specific government form; a standard lease agreement is often not enough.
- Carry a physical folder of all your original documents; digital copies are rarely accepted at the embassy.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.