Czech Work Visa Guide 2024: Employee Card vs. Blue Card Explained

Foreign professionals seeking employment in the Czech Republic must choose between two primary **work permits**: the Employee Card (for general work authorization) and the EU Blue Card (for highly skilled jobs with higher salary requirements). This guide explains eligibility, salary thresholds, application processes, employer requirements, and long-term residency pathways for both options.

If you’re unsure whether a **work visa is the right choice**, consider alternative pathways like the Czech Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers or Czech Long-Term Visa for non-employment-based residence permits.

---

1. Overview: What Are Employee & Blue Cards?

Employee Card

The Employee Card is a **standard work permit** for non-EU nationals taking jobs in the Czech labor market. It applies to both skilled and semi-skilled workers with full-time employment contracts from a Czech employer.

• Salary Requirement: Minimum wage of **20,800 CZK/month** (adjusted quarterly in 2024).
• Job Market Test: Employers must first list the job in the official Czech Public Employment Portal for **30 days**.
• Who It’s For: Service industry, manufacturing, hospitality, retail, etc.

EU Blue Card

The Blue Card is an EU-wide permit for **highly skilled professionals** in sectors like IT, engineering, and finance. It allows easier mobility across EU countries and faster permanent residency.

• Salary Requirement: **65,012 CZK/month** (€2,586), which is 1.5× the Czech national average.
• Who It’s For: IT professionals, engineers, financial directors.
• Benefits: No job market test, faster path to permanent residency (33 months instead of 5 years).

---

2. Application Process: Step-by-Step

Employee Card Application

1. Find a job offer in the official Czech Job Database.
2. Employer must advertise the job for **30 days** before hiring a foreigner.
3. Submit an application at a Czech **embassy or consulate** with:
   • Valid **passport**
   • Employment contract meeting salary requirements
   • Proof of **accommodation** in Czech Republic
   • Health insurance (min. €30,000 coverage)
   • Criminal record extract
   • Visa fee: **2,500 CZK**
4. Processing time: **60–90 days**.

Blue Card Application

1. Secure a job offer in **a highly skilled sector** (CZ-ISCO codes 133, 25).
2. Confirm that your **salary meets the 65,012 CZK/month minimum**.
3. Submit an application at a **Czech embassy/consulate** with:
   • Passport
   • Employment contract with at least **1-year duration**
   • University diploma (or 3+ years of relevant experience)
   • Health insurance & proof of accommodation
   • Visa fee: **5,000 CZK** (for applicants outside Czechia)
4. Processing time: **90 days (or 60 days if all documents are perfect)**.

---

3. Can You Work While Waiting for a Decision?

If you’re switching employers or renewing a visa, you may qualify for a Bridging Visa to remain legally in Czechia while your new permit is processed.

---

4. Employee Card vs. Blue Card: Comparison Table

Criteria	Employee Card	Blue Card
Salary Requirement	20,800 CZK/month	65,012 CZK/month
Job Market Test	Yes, 30 days	No
Processing Time	60–90 days	60–90 days
Permanent Residency Path	5 years	33 months (or 21 months with B1 Czech proficiency)

---

5. Need Help With Your Czech Work Visa?

Navigating Czech work visa options can be **complex**. Our team provides **expert guidance** on choosing the right permit, preparing applications, and avoiding delays.

Contact Us for Work Visa Support

---