On 4 May 2020, the government of the Czech Republic adopted resolution no. 511, on adoption of an emergency measure, which widens the options for entry of foreigners to the territory of the Czech Republic and eases some other restrictions, as of 11 May 2020.

What changes has this resolution brought?

Reintroduction of the option of entry for foreigners from countries outside the European Union:

• seasonal employees may arrive, key employees (for example scientists) and employees in healthcare and social services;
• holders of long-stay visa may arrive for the purpose of receipt of a residence permit (for example an Employee Card);

their entry in the Czech Republic is subject to submitting a medical confirmation of having been tested negative in a RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2, with result no older than 4 days, together with a confirmation issued by the respective laboratory.

Renewed reception of requests for:

• short-term visa for selected purposes;
• visa for the purpose of seasonal employment;
• extraordinary work visa;
• residence permits using the government Programme for Key and Scientific Personnel;
• residence permits using the government Programme for Highly Qualified Workers of the Programme for Qualified Workers, if the applicants will be performing a healthcare profession or they will work in social services.

What applies at present?

At present, entry into the Czech Republic is thus enabled for citizens of the European Union and selected groups of citizens from third countries, if meeting certain conditions (especially submitting a medical confirmation of having undergone a RT-PCR test, undergoing possible quarantine arrangements and presenting supporting documents), depending on the purpose of entry in each individual case. 

The current rules for entry of foreigners to the Czech Republic apply for the duration of the state of emergency, i.e. current until 17 May 2020. Further changes can be expected after this date. We will be happy to discuss specific options regarding entry into the Czech Republic in individual cases.

Veronika Odrobinová
Martina Šumavská