Czech Republic Simplifies Obtaining Work Cards: New Rules for Ukrainians.

According to inkorr.com: The Czech Republic remains an attractive place for Ukrainians seeking stable work abroad. The demand for workers is particularly high in the warehouse, manufacturing, and service sectors. The key document for employment is the Employee Card, which has become easier to obtain considering the situation related to the war.

What is the Employee Card in the Czech Republic, and who is issued it

The Employee Card is issued based on a contract with a Czech employer whose vacancy is listed in the Central Register of Available Positions.

"It is not necessary to have a higher education or special qualifications; the main thing is that the vacancy is included in the Central Register of Vacancies available for Employee Card holders," say the specialists from Relocate.

The card usually has a 'dual' status – with automatic right to work; however, there is a 'non-dual' option that requires obtaining an additional permit.

How to obtain an Employee Card

Starting from 2025, the process of obtaining the Employee Card has become more flexible for Ukrainians. From January 1, applications from visa holders who fled Ukraine due to armed conflict are accepted only at diplomatic missions in Lviv and Kyiv. This allows for the waiver of personal presence. For participants in the Qualified Employee or Key Personnel programs, the employer applies to the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic. The main steps for obtaining the card are:

• Sign an official contract and check the vacancy in the register.
• Gather the necessary documents: passport, photo, certificate of no criminal record (from Ukraine and countries of residence), medical certificate, proof of financial viability.
• Submit an application in Czech or with a translation, pay the administrative fee (2500 crowns in the Czech Republic, 5000 abroad).
• Wait for a decision, which may take up to 60 days (often up to 90+ due to checks).

What to do if the Employee Card holder is fired

From October 1, 2025, for cards without free access to the labor market, the period within which new employers must be informed is extended to 90 days (previously 60) if the dismissal occurred after August 2. Changing positions or companies requires submitting an application 30 days before the contract ends. During the waiting period, 'fiction of residence' applies, providing legal stay if the visa expires on time. Work can only begin after approval from the Czech Ministry of the Interior.

For Ukrainian refugees, temporary protection has been extended until March 2027, with an emphasis on integration. Economists forecast that wage growth (the average is 40,000 crowns) and direct flights from Ukraine may lead to a 15% increase in the flow of migrants in 2026.

It was previously reported that Ukrainian refugees contributed 15 billion crowns to the Czech Republic. This underscores the importance of the Ukrainian community for the Czech economy, as well as the ability of newcomers to adapt to new conditions, supporting the development of various sectors.