Czechia has implemented several significant changes to its immigration laws and long-term visa processes in recent years. Here’s an overview of the key updates:
Key Changes in Czech Immigration Law
1. Digitalization of Residency Procedures (Effective January 1, 2026)
The Czech Ministry of the Interior has introduced a new law aimed at digitalizing the residency process. This includes the creation of an electronic identity for foreign nationals, allowing them to communicate with authorities online. Additionally, a new information system will be launched to streamline residency procedures. While the conditions for granting residence permits remain unchanged, the digitalization aims to accelerate and simplify the process. schengen.news+1goczech.in+1
2. Changes to Family Reunification Rules (Effective July 1, 2023)
As of July 1, 2023, adult children of foreign nationals residing in Czechia can no longer apply for long-term residence permits for the purpose of family reunification. This change affects individuals who were previously eligible to join their parents in Czechia. Such individuals may now need to seek alternative purposes of stay, such as study, or apply for short-term visas. rutlandandpartners.com+1danovky.cz+1danovky.cz
3. Increased Health Insurance Requirements (Effective July 1, 2023)
For long-term visa applicants, including those applying for Employee Cards, Blue Cards, or ICT Cards, the minimum coverage for travel health insurance has been increased to €400,000, up from the previous requirement of €60,000. resourcehub.bakermckenzie.com
4. Changes to Blue Card Regulations (Effective July 1, 2023)
The process for obtaining a Blue Card has been simplified. Employers are no longer required to keep a job vacancy open for a minimum of 30 days before a foreign national can apply for a Blue Card. Additionally, Blue Card holders are now permitted to change employers without prior approval, provided they notify the Ministry of the Interior within three days. resourcehub.bakermckenzie.com+1bal.com+1relocare.cz+1dlapiperwin.com+1
5. Free Access to the Labour Market for Citizens of Selected Countries (Effective July 1, 2024)
Citizens from Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States now have free access to the Czech labour market. These individuals are no longer required to obtain a work permit but must still apply for a residence permit. Employers are not required to notify the Labour Office of vacancies for these foreign nationals. dlapiperwin.com+3bal.com+3ereslegalservices.com+3dlapiperwin.com+2ereslegalservices.com+2accace.com+2
6. Changes to Employment Reporting (Effective July 1, 2024)
A new system for reporting the commencement and termination of employment for foreign nationals will be implemented. Employers will use “notices” and “information cards” to report employment changes. This system aims to simplify administrative processes and improve the efficiency of employment reporting for foreign workers
