CZ
Czech Republic · Dlouhodobe vizum za ucelem studia · apply in person, online
The Czech Republic's long-term visa (D-type) is for third-country nationals undertaking a study activity recognized by Section 64 of the Foreigners Act. Eligible activities include accredited university programmes, qualifying university-organised language preparation, and specified exchange studies. It is distinct from the long-term residence permit for study, which is a separate route and can be applied for directly.
At public and state higher education institutions, study in Czech is free for all nationalities, subject to statutory exceptions such as extended study. Foreign-language programmes and private institutions may charge tuition. The Ministry of Education's Study in Czechia materials report foreign-language tuition from EUR 0 to EUR 19,000 per year (higher ranges include arts and medicine); actual fees depend on the institution and programme. Language tests and scores are set by individual institutions and programmes, not by this visa.
Foreign students in a full-time accredited university programme, and specified full-time secondary, conservatory, higher vocational or state-exam language studies, have free access to employment and do not need a separate work authorisation. No national weekly hour cap is stated on the official guidance. The automatic employment access does not establish a right to freelance or self-employ; those activities were not confirmed for this student visa.
| Program | Type | Duration | Min degree | Work | PR path |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long-term Residence Permit for Job Seeking or Starting a Business | Job seeker | 9 mo | Bachelors | Unrestricted | No |
| Fee | Type | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long-term Visa Application Fee | Application | $115 | One time |
The long-term visa may be issued for up to one year. A study long-term residence permit is a separate category, valid for longer stays and extendable repeatedly for up to two years each time for accredited university study. The visa application is submitted in person at a Czech diplomatic mission; the published processing limit is 60 days. The official source requires confirmation of study, accommodation, funds and a criminal-record document (under-15s are exempt); it may request medical or additional criminal-record documents. It does not establish a universal visa interview requirement. For permanent residence, residence on a study visa or study residence permit counts at half length. The graduate job-seeking/business permit is valid for up to nine months, is non-extendable, and permits unrestricted employment after completion of an accredited university programme. Family residence and work rights depend on the separate family permit and statutory sponsor conditions. How to apply: In person at a Czech diplomatic mission; the form may be completed online, then printed and signed.
Last verified Oct 9, 2026 Last changed Oct 9, 2026 Source
corrected job-seeking permit fees/funds, eligibility and application timing from the official graduate permit instructions (https://ipc.gov.cz/en/visa-and-residence-permit-types/third-country-nationals/long-term-residence-permits/long-term-residence-permit-for-the-purpose-of-seeking-employment-or-starting-a-business/).
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