IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Czech Republic has started offering job-training visas.

What does the change mean? The new visas provide a simpler and faster process than traditional work permits for foreign employees to attend job training for up to six months.

  • Implementation timeframe: Ongoing.
  • Visas/permits affected: Short- and long-term visas issued for job-training purposes.
  • Who is affected: Companies seconding third-country nationals – i.e., non-EU, non-EEA and non-Swiss nationals – to Czech companies or branch offices for job training.
  • Impact on processing times: Visas for job training are expected to take no more than 30 days to process.
  • Business impact: The changes make it easier for employees to enter the Czech Republic for job-training and skills-improvement purposes.
  • Next steps: Qualifying Czech entities are required to file an application, including a training plan and supporting documentation, to be assessed by the Confederation of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic.

Background: In late 2014, the Czech Republic moved toward simplifying procedures for foreign job-trainees to enter the country to improve their skills and qualifications. Final rules published in December allow third-country nationals to stay in the Czech Republic for up to 90 days on a short-term visa or up to six months on a long-term visa. Previously, work authorization was required for job training.

After the Czech company or branch office files an application for assessment with the Confederation, the Confederation issues a letter of recommendation to grant a job-training visa. Based on the letter of recommendation, applicants can then apply for short- or long-term visas.

The visas are not available to third-country nationals leading job training programs. Job trainers are generally required to obtain a valid work permit and either a short-term work visa (for stays of up to 90 days) or an employee card (for stays of more than 90 days).

BAL Analysis: The change gives companies sending employees for job training a faster and easier option than going through the lengthier work authorization process.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in the Czech Republic. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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