Eligibility Quiz
Do you hold a valid residence permit from another EU member state that explicitly includes the remark 'EU Long-Term Resident' (or its equivalent)?
Application Process
You can apply for this status if you hold a valid residence permit from another EU member state that specifically includes the remark "EU Long-Term Resident" (e.g., Daueraufenthalt-EU in Germany). This process is completed in person within the Czech Republic; you do not need to visit an embassy abroad.
Step 1: Enter the Czech Republic
As a holder of an EU long-term resident permit from another member state, you can typically enter the Czech Republic visa-free. You must submit your application to the Odbor azylové a migrační politiky (OAMP — Department for Asylum and Migration Policy) within 3 months of your arrival.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
All documents must be in Czech or accompanied by an official translation. They must not be older than 180 days, with the exception of your passport and your current EU residence card.
- Application Form: Complete the green "Application for Long-Term Residence" form.
- Travel Document: Your valid passport.
- EU Residence Card: Your original, valid permit from the other EU state showing the "EU Long-Term Resident" status.
- Proof of Purpose:
- Employment: A signed employment contract.
- Business: Confirmation of entry into the Živnostenský rejstřík (Trade Register) or Obchodní rejstřík (Business Register).
- Study: Official confirmation of enrollment from a Czech educational institution.
- Proof of Accommodation: A notarized lease agreement or a "Proof of Accommodation" form signed by the property owner.
- Proof of Funds: You must show you earn enough to cover the living minimum (3,130 CZK) plus your housing costs.
- Health Insurance: Proof of comprehensive medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €400,000. Note that as of 2024, children under 18 are automatically enrolled in the public health system.
- Criminal Record: An extract from the criminal record of the EU country that issued your long-term status.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Book an appointment at the OAMP office responsible for your place of residence in the Czech Republic. You must submit the application and pay the administrative fee in person.
Step 4: Biometrics and Collection
If your application is approved, the Ministry will contact you to visit the office again to provide your biometric data (fingerprints and a photo). Shortly after, you will return to collect your Czech residence card, which will be marked "Resident of another EU Member State." This permit is typically valid for 2 years and is renewable.
Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Administrative Fee (Application) | 2,500 CZK |
| Translation Services (per page) | 500 – 1,000 CZK (Estimated) |
| Comprehensive Health Insurance | Varies by provider and age |
Total Estimate: Approximately 3,500 – 5,000 CZK (excluding insurance premiums). Note: This does not include costs for notarizing lease agreements, official translations of criminal records, or the "kolky" (revenue stamps) used to pay the government fee.
Processing Time
- Legal Decision Deadline: The Ministry is legally required to issue a decision within 120 days.
- Real-world Processing: Depending on the specific OAMP branch and current workload, expect a total timeline of 3 to 5 months.
- Document Validity: Most supporting documents (bank statements, proof of accommodation, criminal records) must be no older than 180 days at the time of submission.
- Entry Deadline: You must submit your application within 90 days (3 months) of entering the Czech Republic.