Czech Republic Introduces Digital Nomad Visa for Skilled Remote Workers
In July 2023, the Czech Republic launched a digital nomad visa program aimed at attracting highly skilled remote workers, including freelancers and remote employees. This new visa allows eligible individuals to live and work in the Czech Republic for up to one year. The primary goal of this initiative is to address the country’s shortage of highly qualified IT professionals while stimulating economic growth.
Key Details of the Czech Republic’s Digital Nomad Visa:
- Eligible Nationalities: The digital nomad visa is available to nationals of eight countries: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan, the UK, and the USA.
- Employment Options: Applicants can either be employed by a foreign company that permits remote work or be self-employed as freelancers. Freelancers must apply for a Czech business license, enabling them to provide services to Czech companies on a contractual basis.
- Visa Duration and Extensions: The initial digital nomad visa is valid for one year. After this period, visa holders can apply for a residence permit, granting an additional two years of stay. To qualify for the extension, applicants must complete an adaptation-integration course. Visa applications are typically processed within 45 days.
- Tax Residency: Staying in the Czech Republic for more than 183 days within a one-year period may result in being considered a Czech tax resident. Tax obligations will depend on double taxation rules in your home country if you are also a tax resident there.
- Income Requirement: Remote workers employed by foreign companies must meet the minimum income requirement of CZK 60,530 (approximately €2,507) per month, which is 1.5 times the gross average salary in the Czech Republic. Additionally, the employing company should have at least 50 employees.
- Educational or Work Experience Criteria: Applicants must either hold a university degree or higher in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) or possess at least three years of work experience in the IT industry.
- Family Members: Spouses, registered partners, minor children, and dependent children of any nationality can also obtain a residence permit when applying with a qualifying digital nomad visa holder.
The Czech Republic has become increasingly popular among digital nomads due to its affordable living costs, with average long-term apartment rentals priced at around €389 per month and low transportation costs. Prague, the capital city, offers a high standard of living at an affordable cost, with a vibrant cultural scene, nightlife, and easy access to nature, such as Bohemian Switzerland National Park.
The launch of the digital nomad visa further solidifies the Czech Republic’s position as an attractive destination for remote workers and freelancers seeking a combination of professional opportunities and a high quality of life.