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
Get notified when these visa rules change
Free rule-change alerts for this route. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.