Student residence in Czechia: documents, funds, can you work and what to do after graduation

Updated: 13 November 2026

Studying is one of the most popular routes to living legally in Czechia. But the rules for a Czech university student and for a language school student are very different — especially when it comes to work. Here is how to get a student visa or permit and what you must not do.

Visa or residence permit

For an accredited university programme, university preparatory courses, secondary school, a scholarship programme or an internship, you apply for long-term residence for study. For other studies longer than 3 months (e.g. a language school), you apply for a long-term visa for study.

Documents

1. Application form (green form), passport, 2 photos, fingerprints.
2. Proof of purpose — admission letter or confirmation of studies.
3. Proof of accommodation in Czechia.
4. Proof of funds — bank statement, scholarship or a guarantee from the university or a legal entity.
5. Criminal record extract.
6. Health insurance — after approval.
7. For minors — parental consent.

Documents must be no older than 180 days, translated into Czech and apostilled (except for treaty countries such as Ukraine).

How much money you need

The calculation is based on the existential minimum — CZK 3,130 a month. Instead of your own funds you can submit a scholarship under an international agreement, the university’s confirmation that it covers your costs, or a guarantee from a state body or legal entity (at least CZK 3,130 a month). Check the exact amount for your period before applying — insufficient funds are a common reason for refusal.

Can you work?

• Students of accredited programmes at Czech universities (in Czech or English) have free access to the labour market — no permit needed.
• Language and preparatory courses, non-accredited programmes — you need a work permit from the Labour Office.
• Full-time study at a secondary or higher vocational school usually also gives free access.

After graduation

Graduates of Czech universities can obtain residence for job seeking or starting a business for up to 9 months, with free access to the labour market. You can also change your purpose of stay to work or business without leaving Czechia.

Common mistakes

• A language course student working without a permit — this is illegal work.
• Expulsion from studies or a long break — the Ministry may cancel the permit.
• A gap in health insurance.
• An unreported change of address.

Sources

• MZV ČR — dlouhodobý pobyt za účelem studia
• MV ČR — Možnosti pobytu cizinců ve vztahu k přístupu na trh práce (8/2025)
• MV ČR — prostředky k pobytu (existenční minimum)

This article is for general information only and is not legal or tax advice. Check the current rules before making a decision, or contact us.