Obtaining permanent residence in the Czech Republic opens the door to a stable and thriving life in the heart of Europe. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life, the Czech Republic offers a welcoming home for those seeking long-term residency.
What is biometric card in Czech Republic?
Since 2011, the Czech Republic has been required to issue biometric residence permit cards in compliance with European legislation. These cards, which feature both a photograph and fingerprint of the holder, are designed for all non-EU citizens residing in the Czech Republic on a long-term basis. This includes individuals with permission for either permanent or temporary residency. Notably, EU citizens and their family members, as well as third-country citizens residing in the Czech Republic on a Visa, are exempt from the requirement to obtain a biometric residence card.
How do I get a permanent resident card in the Czech Republic?
After holding a temporary residence permit for five years, individuals are eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit in the Czech Republic. Obtaining a permanent residence permit grants the privilege of studying, working, and residing in the Czech Republic without time constraints. Unlike temporary permits, this category of permit does not have an expiration date and can be renewed indefinitely.
Permanent residence in the Czech Republic: requirements and documents
To initiate the application process for a temporary residence permit, you are required to provide the following documents:
Note: All documents must be translated into Czech or Slovak, and it is essential to submit original documents or notarized copies. Additionally, public documentation requires verification with an apostille stamp or certification. All provided documents must not be older than 180 days, except for the travel document.
- Passport: A valid passport with at least three months of validity beyond the intended return date, containing two blank pages.
- Application Form: Complete and sign the designated application form.
- Identity Picture: Include one identity picture, resembling a passport photo, not older than 180 days.
- Proof of Accommodation: Submit documents confirming your place of stay in the Czech Republic, such as a hotel reservation, a letter from a friend or family member, etc.
- Financial Statements: Provide evidence demonstrating your financial stability and the ability to fund your stay in the Czech Republic.
- Valid Health Insurance: Furnish proof of health insurance coverage for the Czech Republic, with a minimum coverage of €60,000.
- Fee Payment Proof: Include documentation confirming the payment of the application fee, approximately CZK 200 or €8.
Note: All documents must be translated into Czech or Slovak, and it is essential to submit original documents or notarized copies. Additionally, public documentation requires verification with an apostille stamp or certification. All provided documents must not be older than 180 days, except for the travel document.
Benefits of permanent residence in Czech Republic
Being a permanent resident offers streamlined processes for securing a mortgage and enrolling in public health insurance as the sole payer, even in the absence of employment or a trade license. Moreover, having a permanent residence permit opens the pathway to Czech citizenship after a period of 5 years.
Permanent residence in the Czech Republic: fee and processing time
Fees for various permanent residence-related services in the Czech Republic are as follows:
The application for a permanent residence permit is submitted to the Ministry of Interior of the Czech Republic, and the standard processing time is 180 days.
- Application submission for permanent residence: 2,500 CZK
- Application submission for individuals under 15 years of age: 1,000 CZK
- Extension of validity of the residence permit document: 2,500 CZK
- Extension of validity for individuals under 15 years of age: 1,000 CZK
- Change of information in the residence permit document: 1,000 CZK
- Change of information for individuals under 15 years of age: 500 CZK
- Damage or loss of the residence permit document: 2,500 CZK
- Damage or loss for individuals under 15 years of age: 1,000 CZK
- Application submission for EU long-term resident status: 500 CZK
- Issuance of counterparts, copy duplicates, photocopies, and extracts: 50 CZK for each initiated page, 40 CZK on a CD, DVD, or flash disk, 15 CZK for the first page, and 5 CZK for every subsequent initiated page if produced on a copy machine or printer.
The application for a permanent residence permit is submitted to the Ministry of Interior of the Czech Republic, and the standard processing time is 180 days.
Renewing my permanent residence in Czech Republic
Guide to applying for a permanent residence permit after 5 years of temporary residence in the czech republic:
- Prepare the Necessary Documents: Gather all required documents, including your passport, application form, identity picture, proof of accommodation, financial statements, health insurance proof, and fee payment confirmation.
- Fill in the Application Form: Complete and sign the designated application form accurately.
- Make an Appointment: Schedule an appointment at a Ministry of the Interior office for the submission of your application.
- Submit the Application: Present your completed application and supporting documents during your scheduled appointment.
- Wait for the Decision: Patiently await the decision on your application, as the processing time is typically a part of this phase.
- Learn the Result of the Administrative Proceedings: Once the administrative proceedings are complete, you will be informed of the decision on your application.
- Make Your Appointment for Biometric Data: Schedule an appointment for the collection of your biometric data.
- Come for Biometric Data Collection: Attend the scheduled appointment to provide the necessary biometric information.
- Collect Your Residence Permit Document (Biometric Card): Upon completion of the process, collect your permanent residence permit document (biometric card), which signifies your status in the Czech Republic.
Can I travel in EU on permanent residence in Czech Republic?
Yes, having a permanent residence permit in the Czech Republic allows you to travel within the European Union (EU) for short stays. The Czech Republic is a member of the EU, and as a permanent resident, you generally have the right to travel to other EU countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits without needing a visa.
