Working in the Czech Republic
One of the biggest draws for international students to the Czech Republic is access to the job market. All students who graduate with a Czech-accredited degree, employees in certain sectors, and citizens of designated countries (including the US) receive free access to the Czech job market.
This means you can be employed in the same way as an EU citizen without the need for a separate work permit, employee card, blue card, or other permission to work from the government (in simple terms, it is less paperwork and less expensive for an employer to hire you, which makes securing a job easier).
Moreover, the Czech Republic has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the EU, increasing the chances of finding employment after graduating. However, you do still need to meet a minimum income requirement to qualify for a residence permit to live in the Czech Republic.
Student Jobs
Students holding a Long-Term Visa for the Purpose of Studies have free access to the job market for the duration of their studies. They are allowed to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week.
Students who participate in a degree program that is not Czech-accredited (ie, the program is only accredited in the US, UK, or another country) do not have automatic permission to work during their studies and must apply for permission to work in addition to their studies.
Wages
The minimum hourly wage is 124.40 Kč per hour (approximately $6). Most part-time jobs pay about 150 to 200 kč per hour (approximately $7 to $10).
Self-Employed Students
Students in the Czech Republic are permitted to be self-employed during their studies. However, their studies must remain the primary purpose of their stay, and they must continue to fulfill their obligations as a student. Students may have to apply for a živnostenský list (see on the right) to fulfill their tax obligations.
After Graduating
Orientation Year
After graduation, you can apply for a one-year permit to seek employment or start a business.
This residence permit is open to students who have graduated with a degree that is accredited by the Czech Ministry of Education.
Živnostenský List
A živnostenský list is a Czech trade license, a document required to legally operate a self-employed business (OSVČ) or a company in the Czech Republic. Applying from abroad is very difficult, but as a student already in the Czech Republic, applying is much easier. Once approved, you qualify for a residence permit.
Long-Term Residence Permit without a Work Permit
Americans are exempt from requiring a work permit to be employed in the Czech Republic. However, to fulfill the requirements of a residence permit, they must prove that they can meet a minimum monthly income.
Digital Nomad Program
A new program aimed at highly qualified and top IT professionals. Applicants must be either 1) an employee of a foreign company who will work remotely for a long-term period, or 2) self-employed and holds or will hold a živnostenský list.
This program allows the closest family members of digital nomads to also apply for a residence permit at the same time.
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