Opus research, 2026-04-10. The Czech Republic uses a dual-permit system for non-EU workers: the Employee Card (combined work+residence permit) and the EU Blue Card (for highly qualified workers). EU/EEA/Swiss citizens have free movement and need no work permit. Third-country nationals face labor market tests and salary thresholds.
Employment Act (Act No. 435/2004 Coll.) 🟢
Foreigners' Residence Act (Act No. 326/1999 Coll.) 🟢
EU Blue Card Directive (2009/50/EC, revised 2021/1883) 🟢
EU Free Movement Regulation 🟢
主管機關: Ministry of the Interior (MV ČR) — residence permits; Ministry of Labour (MPSV) — labor market policy; Labour Office (Úřad práce) — labor market tests and work permits
| Permit Type | Target Group | Duration | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employee Card (zaměstnanecká karta) | Non-EU workers for any qualified position | Up to 2 years (renewable) | Labor market test; employment contract |
| EU Blue Card (modrá karta) | Highly qualified non-EU workers | Up to 2 years (renewable) | Higher education degree; salary ≥ 1.5× average wage |
| Intra-Company Transfer Card | ICT within multinational | Varies | Transfer from related entity outside EU |
| Work Permit (pracovní povolení) | Seasonal workers, specific categories | Up to 6 months (seasonal) | Approval from Labour Office |
| Free movement | EU/EEA/Swiss nationals | Unlimited | Registration if staying > 3 months |
The Employee Card is the main permit for non-EU workers. It serves as both a work permit and a residence permit (dual-purpose card with biometric features).
Process:
For highly qualified workers: