Czech Republic — short-term work up to 90 days

Visa Type C (Schengen), Purpose: zaměstnání + Work Permit from Úřad práce

Short-term employment in the Czech Republic is an official form of legal work for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The basis for employment is a work permit (povolení k zaměstnání) issued by the Czech Labour Office (Úřad práce ČR). The permit is tied to a specific employer, job position, location, and dates.

If the applicant does not have visa-free entry, an additional Schengen visa type C with the purpose “zaměstnání” must be obtained.

Important: even with visa-free entry, a valid work permit is still required.

Who it is for

Short-term business trips, project launches, or production start-ups.
Seasonal or temporary work lasting up to 3 months.
Candidates with a short-term offer from a Czech employer.
Companies that already have a registered vacancy and prepared documents at the Labour Office.

Employer requirements

Posting the vacancy in the Úřad práce ČR system and keeping it active for the required period.
Submitting the application package for the work permit: form, job description, draft contract, and company registration data.
Providing the candidate with the original or notarized copy of the permit along with a contract or job offer.

Candidate requirements

Completed and signed visa application form (type C, purpose “zaměstnání”).
Valid passport (at least 90 days beyond departure date, 2 blank pages).
Photo 3.5×4.5 cm.
Work permit from ÚP (original or notarized copy) and employment contract.
Proof of accommodation for the entire period of stay.
Medical insurance covering the entire stay (minimum €30,000, no deductible).
Proof of financial means — recent bank statement or employer guarantee letter.
If requested: criminal record certificate with apostille and sworn translation, medical certificate.
For minors — parental consent and birth certificate.

Processing time

Employer preparation (posting + application to ÚP): 1–2 weeks.
ÚP work permit processing: 2–4 weeks.
Type C visa issuance: 2–6 weeks (typically 15–45 days). Total timeframe: approximately 6–10 weeks before starting work.

Key rules

The visa is tied to one employer, position, and location.
Visa type C cannot be extended inside the Czech Republic.
Visa-free entry does not allow employment without a valid work permit.
The 90/180-day Schengen rule must be respected.
Upon arrival, address registration with the foreign police is required within 3 business days.

Common mistakes

Mismatch between permit, contract, and visa application data.
Accommodation or insurance not covering the entire stay.
Insurance with deductible or shorter coverage.
Working for another employer — violation of work permit terms.
Exceeding the 90/180-day Schengen limit.

Alternatives for longer employment

Employee Card (Zaměstnanecká karta) — valid for 1 year or more.
Long-term visa type D for seasonal work (90–180 days).
EU Blue Card — for highly qualified professionals.

Support from

Eurowiza Sp. z o.o.

Verification of the job offer and compliance with ÚP and consulate requirements.
Preparation of employer checklists and document templates.
Consulting on the work permit and visa process.
Assistance with visa appointment scheduling and pre-submission review.
Full guidance before departure and registration support upon arrival in the Czech Republic.