If an EU citizen wishes to settle in the Czechia for the long term, they do not need to apply for a residence permit. However, they may optionally apply for a Registration Certificate. This certificate can be useful for proving (e.g., when dealing with Czech authorities, banking institutions, etc.) that the EU citizen is residing in the Czech Republic long term.
Who can apply
All citizens of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Additionally, citizens of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, provided they were residing in the country as of December 31, 2020 (according to the Withdrawal Agreement).
Validity of certificate
EU citizens – 10 years.
UK citizens – 5 years.
After five years of residence in the Czech Republic, it is possible to apply for permanent residence.
What are the benefits of the Certificate of Registration
As part of the application process, EU citizens will also receive a personal identification number (if they don’t already have one). If they plan to apply for permanent residence in the future, the certificate helps to prove the duration of their stay in the Czech Republic. Furthermore, it allows EU citizens to vote in municipal elections in the locality where they reside, as well as in European Parliament elections.
How to apply
EU citizens can submit their application in person at the Ministry of the Interior, by mail, or a data-box.
When to apply
An EU citizen can apply at any time if they plan to stay in the Czech Republic long term (generally for more than 3 months).
Processing time
30 days.
Fee
200 CZK.
What documents are required
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Application form
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Travel document (or a copy if submitting by mail)
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Proof of accommodation (rental contract, confirmation of accommodation, property ownership record)
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Health insurance (only if the purpose of stay is study, family, or other)
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Photograph
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Original document proving family relationship (in some specific cases)
All submitted documents must be originals or officially certified copies and in Czech or with an official Czech translation. None of the documents may be older than 180 days.
What do I need to do if I want to live in the Czech Republic long-term without the Certificate of Registration
An EU citizen is required to report their place of residence to the police within 30 days of entering the country, if their expected stay will exceed 30 days. This obligation does not apply if the foreigner has fulfilled this duty through their accommodation provider. Reporting must be done in person at the Foreign Police.
If you're unsure about how to proceed in obtaining the Certificate of Registration, feel free to contact me. I believe obtaining the certificate has made life easier for many clients living in the Czech Republic. For example many authorities or institutions require proof of a current address in the Czech Republic.