Major Changes for Foreigners Planning to Work in the Czech Republic
Are you planning to work in the Czech Republic? Big changes have come to the rules for foreigners entering the Czech labor market. As of July 1, 2024, the Czech government has simplified the hiring process for certain nationalities, while others still need to follow the traditional 30-day vacancy procedure.
Who No Longer Needs the 30-Day Rule?
Previously, employers were required to advertise a job vacancy at the Czech Labor Office for 30 days before offering it to a non-EU citizen. This rule, known as the hlášenka, ensured that Czech and EU candidates had the first opportunity to apply.
From July 1, 2024, citizens of the following countries are exempt from the 30-day reporting requirement:
- Japan
- Israel
- Canada
- Australia
- Singapore
- New Zealand
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
- Republic of Korea (South Korea)
If you are from one of these countries, you now have direct access to the Czech labor market, meaning employers can hire you immediately without waiting 30 days.
What About Foreigners From Other Countries?
If your country is not on the exemption list, you can still apply for jobs in the Czech Republic, but you must follow the standard 30-day procedure:
- Check vacancies on the official Czech job database
Search for open positions on the Czech Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MPSV.cz). Only jobs listed there are eligible for foreigners applying for an employee card in the Czech Republic. Search jobs on MPSV.cz - Employer registration of the vacancy
If a job is not listed, ask the employer to register it with the Labor Office.
The vacancy must remain open for 30 days for Czech and EU applicants. After 30 days, if the position remains unfilled, the employer can sponsor your employee card application.
- Apply for an Employee Card
Submit your application at the Czech embassy in your home country or country of residence.
What Happens After the 30-Day Waiting Period Ends?
Once the mandatory 30-day reporting timeline passes and no suitable Czech or EU candidate has been found, the Czech Labor Office officially clears the position for international recruitment. At this point, the vacancy is assigned a unique reference number (frequently called a číslo volného místa).
Your future employer must give you this exact number because it is a critical requirement for your application form. Without this specific code, the Ministry of the Interior cannot link your visa application to the registered job position.
Keep in mind that while the 30-day waiting procedure is a major administrative hurdle, gathering your supporting paperwork simultaneously is the best way to save time. Ensuring your medical insurance, proof of accommodation in Prague, and employment contract are fully prepared will prevent any unnecessary setbacks the moment the vacancy window closes.
Important Note About Qualifications
When applying for an employee card in the Czech Republic, your documents must match the job requirements stated in the vacancy:
- Your official university diploma, if required by the employer
- Proof of professional experience
- Official translations or apostille where necessary
Failing to provide the required documents may cause delays or rejection of your application.
Final Thoughts
- Free access countries: Apply for jobs directly without the 30-day delay.
- Other countries: Focus on vacancies listed on MPSV.cz or ask employers to register the position.
- Document preparation: Always have your passport, CV, diploma, and proof of experience ready to avoid last-minute complications.
Whether you benefit from the new free-access rule or need to follow the 30-day reporting procedure, the Czech Republic continues to offer excellent work opportunities for skilled professionals.
Need assistance with your transition? > Navigating the Czech labor market, employee cards, and labor office filings can be overwhelming. If you need professional help with your employee card application, gathering paperwork, or communicating with Czech authorities, please let us know. The Wise Expats team is here to manage the bureaucracy so you can focus on your new career.
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