Work Czech Republic

To legally work in the Czech Republic, foreign citizens must obtain the appropriate work permit. The procedure and required documents depend on the applicant's citizenship and type of work.

 

EU/EEA and Swiss citizens: have the right to work in the Czech Republic without needing a special work permit; it is recommended to register at the local Foreigners' Police office within 30 days of arrival.

 

Third-country citizens: require a work permit. There are two main types of permits in the Czech Republic:

Employee Card combines a work permit and residence permit. It is intended for foreign citizens planning to work in the Czech Republic for more than 3 months.

Application process

Find a job: Locate an employer in the Czech Republic willing to offer you a job.

Submit an application: Apply for an employee card at the Czech consulate in your country or at the Czech Ministry of the Interior if you are already legally in the country.

Application review: The review process can take up to 60 days.

 

Required documents:

- Completed application form for an employee card.

- Valid passport.

- Two passport-sized photos.

- Employment contract or written confirmation from the employer.

- Documents proving qualifications (diplomas, certificates).

- Proof of accommodation in the Czech Republic.

- Criminal record certificate from the country of residence.

- Medical insurance.

Please note that all documents must be translated into Czech and notarized.

 

Blue Card is intended for highly qualified specialists with higher education planning to work in the Czech Republic for more than 3 months.

Application process

Find a job: Locate an employer offering a position matching your qualifications.

Submit an application: Applications are submitted at the Czech consulate or the Ministry of the Interior of the Czech Republic.

Application review: The review process can take up to 90 days.

Required documents:

- Completed application form for a Blue Card.

- Valid passport.

- Two passport-sized photos.

- Employment contract specifying a salary of at least 1.5 times the Czech average wage.

- Documents proving higher education.

- Proof of accommodation in the Czech Republic.

- Criminal record certificate.

- Medical insurance.

All documents must be translated into Czech and notarized.

 

Additional recommendations

Submission deadlines: It is recommended to apply for a work permit 3-4 months before the intended start date.

Consultation: Before submitting documents, it is advised to consult with the Czech consulate or specialized legal firms.

Updating information: Immigration laws may change, so it's important to check for updated information on the official websites of the Czech Ministry of the Interior or the Czech consulate in your country.

Employment of EU citizens

Citizens of EU countries, the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland have the right to free movement and employment in the Czech Republic without needing a special work permit. This means they can seek employment, sign employment contracts, and work under the same conditions as Czech citizens.

 

Main features

No need for a work permit: EU citizens can work in the Czech Republic without arranging additional documents.

Registration at the place of residence: If staying in the Czech Republic for more than 30 days, one must register at the local Foreigners' Police office within 30 days of arrival.

Social guarantees: EU citizens are entitled to social benefits and medical care equivalent to Czech citizens.

 

Employment of third-country citizens

Citizens of countries not part of the EU are subject to stricter requirements for employment in the Czech Republic. To work legally, they need to obtain the appropriate permit (Employee Card, Blue Card).

 

General Requirements for Third Country Nationals

- Employment Contract: Required for application submission.

- Qualification Confirmation: Diplomas, certificates, and other documents proving professional skills.

- Health Insurance: Mandatory for the entire stay period.

- Proof of Residence: Rental agreement or other documents confirming accommodation in the Czech Republic.

 

It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the requirements in advance and prepare all necessary documents for successful employment in the Czech Republic.

Job searching in the Czech Republic can be successful if you use various resources and strategies. Below are the main recommendations for effective employment.

 

Resume and Cover Letter Preparation

Resume (CV): Prepare your resume in English and Czech, adapting it to the requirements of the Czech labor market. Include work experience, education, skills, and achievements.

Cover Letter: Write a brief letter explaining your motivation and how you meet the job requirements.

 

Using Online Platforms for Job Searching

- Local Sites:

  Jobs.cz: One of the largest Czech portals with current job vacancies.

  Prace.cz: A popular resource with a wide range of offers.

- International Sites:

  Expats.cz: A platform aimed at foreigners looking for jobs in the Czech Republic.

  LinkedIn: An international network for professionals with many job opportunities in the Czech Republic.

 

Contacting Recruitment Agencies

Many companies collaborate with recruitment agencies. Contact agencies such as Grafton Recruitment, Manpower, or Hays to increase your employment chances.

 

Attending Job Fairs

Job fairs are regularly held where you can meet company representatives, learn about job vacancies, and submit your resume. Keep an eye on event announcements in your region.

 

Utilizing Social Networks and Professional Communities

Join professional groups on social networks like Facebook and LinkedIn. Job vacancies and opportunities are often discussed there.

 

Direct Contact with Employers

Create a list of companies you would like to work for and send them your resume with a cover letter, even if they don’t have open vacancies. This demonstrates your initiative and interest.

 

Using Government Resources

Czech state employment services offer job search assistance, consultations, and training. Visit a local employment service office for more information.

Employment in the Czech Republic for foreign citizens requires meeting certain conditions, including language proficiency, qualifications, necessary documentation, and an understanding of legal aspects.

 

Language Proficiency

 

Czech Language: For most positions, especially those involving communication with clients or colleagues, Czech language proficiency is mandatory. It significantly enhances employment chances and facilitates integration into the work environment.

English Language: In international companies and the IT sector, English is often used as the working language. However, even in such cases, basic Czech knowledge will be an advantage.

 

Qualification and Education

 

Diplomas and Certificates: Qualified positions require confirmation of education and professional skills. Foreign diplomas may need nostrification (recognition) in the Czech Republic.

Work Experience: Relevant experience increases a candidate's competitiveness in the job market.

 

Health Insurance

To work in the Czech Republic, you must have valid health insurance covering the entire stay period. This is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a visa and work permit.

 

Proof of Residence

You must provide documents confirming accommodation in the Czech Republic, such as a rental agreement or a letter from the property owner.

 

Criminal Record Certificate

In some cases, a criminal record certificate from your country of residence may be required. This document must be translated into Czech and notarized.

The Czech Republic has a dynamically developing economy, creating a demand for specialists of various levels of qualification in different sectors. 

 

Skilled labor

 

Information Technology (IT)

Programming and software development: High demand for software developers, especially in areas such as web development, mobile applications, and system integration.

Cybersecurity: With the growth of digitalization, there is an increasing need for information security specialists.

Data analytics: Companies are looking for specialists in big data analysis and machine learning.

 

Engineering and mechanical engineering

Automotive industry: The Czech Republic is a major automotive manufacturer, creating demand for design engineers, technologists, and quality specialists.

Electrical engineering and electronics: The development and production of electronic components and devices require qualified engineers.

 

Healthcare

Doctors and medical specialists: Especially in demand are specialists in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and anesthesiology.

Nurses and paramedics: Ongoing demand for mid-level medical staff.

 

Education

Foreign language teachers: Demand for teachers of English, German, and other languages.

University lecturers: Especially in technical and medical disciplines.

 

Financial sector

Accounting and auditing: Companies are looking for qualified accountants and auditors.

Financial analysis: Demand for analysts to assess investment projects and financial planning.

 

Unskilled labor

 

Manufacturing and assembly lines

Conveyor workers: Assembly of automotive components, electronics, and household appliances.

Product packaging and sorting: Work in warehouses and logistics centers.

 

Construction

Laborers: Assisting in construction and repair work.

Installers and assemblers: Installing building structures and equipment.

 

Agriculture

Seasonal workers: Harvesting, caring for plants and animals.

Greenhouse work: Cultivating vegetables and flowers.

 

Cleaning

Cleaning premises: Work in offices, hotels, and shopping centers.

Cleaning in production: Maintaining cleanliness in factories and plants.

 

Hospitality and restaurant business

Waiters and bartenders: Serving customers in restaurants and bars.

Housekeepers: Cleaning rooms in hotels.

The pension system in the Czech Republic consists of two main components: mandatory state pension insurance and voluntary additional pension savings.

 

Mandatory state pension insurance

This component covers all economically active individuals and operates on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Contributions:

- Employees: The contribution is 6.5% of the salary, withheld by the employer.

- Employers: The contribution is 21.5% of each employee's salary.

- Self-employed individuals: Required to pay a contribution of 28% of their profit.

 

Types of pensions

Old-age pension: Granted upon reaching retirement age and having the required insurance period.

Disability pension: Provided to individuals with limited work capacity depending on the degree of disability.

Survivor's pension: Paid to widows, widowers, and orphans under certain conditions.

 

Retirement age: The retirement age in the Czech Republic depends on the year of birth and gender. For men and women born after 1977, the retirement age is 67 years. For those born earlier, the retirement age varies.

 

Required insurance period: To receive a full old-age pension, a minimum insurance period is required, which gradually increased and has been 35 years since 2018.

 

Voluntary additional pension savings

This component allows citizens to accumulate additional funds for their state pension through private pension funds.

 

Features

State Subsidies: The state provides financial support to system participants in the form of subsidies.

Tax Benefits: Contributions to additional pension funds can reduce the taxable base.

Flexibility: Participants can choose between different investment strategies and switch pension funds without additional fees.

 

Eligibility Conditions: Payments from additional pension savings are possible after reaching the age of 60.

 

3Features for Foreign Citizens

Foreign citizens working in the Czech Republic are required to participate in the mandatory pension insurance system under the same conditions as Czech citizens. It is essential to consider international social security agreements between the Czech Republic and the worker's country of origin, which may affect rights and obligations in the field of pension security.

Main Types of Social Insurance

 

Pension Insurance

Pension insurance is intended to provide citizens with income in old age, in case of disability, or in the event of the loss of a breadwinner. Participation in pension insurance is mandatory for all economically active individuals, including employees and the self-employed. 

 

Insurance for Temporary Incapacity for Work

This insurance provides benefits in cases of temporary incapacity for work due to illness, accident, or pregnancy. Main types of benefits:

- Sickness Benefit: Paid during temporary incapacity for work.

- Care Benefit: Provided when care for a sick family member is needed.

- Maternity Benefit: Paid to women during maternity leave.

Participation in this type of insurance is mandatory for employees and voluntary for the self-employed. 

 

Medical Insurance

Medical insurance ensures access to medical services and covers treatment costs. The system includes: state medical insurance and commercial medical insurance.

 

Unemployment Insurance

This insurance provides financial support to individuals who have lost their jobs. Unemployment benefits are paid under certain conditions, including a minimum period of insurance participation and active job search.

 

State Social Benefits

In addition to the above types of insurance, there are various social benefits in the Czech Republic aimed at supporting families, low-income individuals, and other vulnerable groups. These include:

Child Allowance: Paid to families with children under certain conditions.

Childcare Allowance: Provided to parents caring for young children.

Housing Allowance: Helps cover living expenses for low-income families.

 

These benefits are financed from the state budget and are aimed at ensuring the social protection of the population. 

In the Czech Republic, labor relations are governed by the Labor Code, which sets the rules for dismissals, granting leaves, including childcare leaves, and establishes the list of public holidays.

 

Dismissal

 

Dismissal Procedure

At the initiative of the employer: An employer can terminate an employment contract only for reasons provided by law, such as organizational changes, loss of trust, or serious disciplinary violations. The dismissal notice must be provided in writing, indicating the specific reason. 

At the initiative of the employee: An employee has the right to terminate an employment contract without providing a reason by submitting a written notice.

 

Notice Period: The standard notice period is at least two months and starts from the first day of the month following the month in which the notice was given. This period can be extended by agreement of the parties but cannot be shortened. 

 

Severance Pay

The amount of severance pay depends on the duration of employment with the employer:

Less than 1 year — 1 month's salary.

From 1 to 2 years — 2 monthly salaries.

More than 2 years — 3 monthly salaries.

Severance pay is provided in cases of dismissal due to organizational reasons or the employee's health condition. 

 

Leave

 

Annual leave: The standard duration of annual paid leave is 4 weeks (20 working days) per year. Some employers may offer longer leave at their discretion or in accordance with a collective agreement. 

 

Childcare leave:

Maternity leave: Provided to women for a period of 28 weeks (37 weeks for the birth of more than one child). It usually starts 6–8 weeks before the expected delivery date.

Parental leave: Can be granted to either the mother or father of a child until the child reaches the age of 3. During this leave, a parental allowance is paid.

The employer must retain the employee’s position during the period of childcare leave. 

 

Public Holidays

The following public holidays are established in the Czech Republic, during which most workers are exempt from work:

January 1: New Year's Day.

Easter Monday: Date changes annually.

May 1: Labour Day.

May 8: Liberation Day.

July 5: Day of Slavic Apostles Cyril and Methodius.

July 6: Jan Hus Day.

September 28: Czech Statehood Day.

October 28: Day of the Establishment of the Independent Czechoslovak State.

November 17: Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy.

December 24: Christmas Eve.

December 25: Christmas Day.

December 26: Second Day of Christmas.

 

Work on public holidays is allowed only in exceptional cases and must be compensated with additional pay or provided with time off. 

Main trade unions in the Czech Republic

 

Czech-Moravian Confederation of Trade Unions: The largest union organization in the country, includes various sector unions at national and international levels.

   

Christian Confederation of Trade Unions: Unites workers who hold Christian values; focuses on protecting workers' rights and promoting social justice.

 

Industry-specific trade unions: Specialized unions exist for various economic sectors, such as education, healthcare, transport, and industry; they address specific issues related to working conditions in the respective sectors.

 

How trade unions can help workers

Rights protection: Trade unions ensure compliance with labor laws, prevent discrimination, and protect against wrongful dismissals.

Wage negotiations: Conduct collective negotiations with employers on wage increases and improved working conditions.

Legal support: Provide advice and assistance in case of labor disputes or conflicts with the employer.

Training and development: Organize training and seminars for skill enhancement and awareness of workers' rights.

Social programs: Offer members various social benefits, including discounts on services, cultural events, and support programs.

 

Joining a trade union can significantly strengthen an employee's position by providing access to collective support and resources to protect their interests.

Conducting business in the Czech Republic is characterized by a favorable business environment, a transparent legal system, and access to the European market. 

Choice of legal form

Various forms of business are available in the Czech Republic, among the most common are:

- Sole Proprietor: Suitable for small businesses and freelancers. Registration is simple, but the proprietor bears full responsibility for obligations.

- Limited Liability Company: The most popular form for small and medium-sized businesses. Requires a minimal share capital and limits participants' liability to their contributions.

- Joint Stock Company: Intended for large businesses. Requires higher share capital and a complex management structure.

Business Registration

The registration process depends on the chosen business form. Detailed information about the registration process is available on the official portal BusinessInfo.cz. 

Taxation

Main taxes to consider:

Corporate Income Tax: The rate is 19% for legal entities and follows a progressive scale for individuals.

Value Added Tax (VAT): The standard rate is 21%, with reduced rates of 15% and 10% for certain goods and services.

Social and Health Contributions: Mandatory for all entrepreneurs and employees.

It is advisable to consult with a tax advisor to optimize tax obligations.

 

Licensing and Permits: Certain types of activities require special licenses or permits. For example, trading alcohol, medical services, or construction requires additional approval from the relevant authorities.

 

When hiring employees, labor laws must be followed, including:

Employment Contracts: Must be concluded in written form specifying all conditions.

Social and Health Contributions: The employer is obliged to withhold and remit the relevant contributions for the employees.

 

Accounting: All entrepreneurs are required to keep accounting records in accordance with Czech standards. A simplified accounting system is allowed for small businesses. It is recommended to use the services of a professional accountant to ensure compliance with legal requirements.

Entrepreneurial Support: In the Czech Republic, various business support programs exist, including grants, subsidies, and advisory services.