Are you a Ukrainian national looking to start working in the Czech Republic as soon as possible? Understanding the differences between an Employee Card, a Blue Card, and navigating the application process can be challenging—but we’re here to help make it easier for you!
Stay informed about the latest rules and updates for 2025—so you’re always prepared.
If you’re considering applying for an Employee Card or a Blue Card, it’s essential to understand the requirements and benefits of each permit. You can find detailed information in our previous articles.
New Rules for Different Groups of Ukrainian Nationals
The latest changes aim to expand opportunities for specific groups of applicants
Who is now eligible to apply for an Employee Card?
- Ukrainians in the Czech Republic with Temporary Protection
- No changes apply to this group—they still have free access to the labor market.
- However, they cannot switch from Temporary Protection to an Employee Card.
- After the approval of legislative changes under Lex Ukraine VII, they may transition to a special long-term residence permit valid for 5 years, provided they meet the requirements. The exact implementation date of this option will be announced later.
- Ukrainians with a Tolerance Visa (D/SD/91) issued due to the war in Ukraine
- The most significant update is that they can now apply for an Employee Card or a Blue Card through the government migration program directly from Ukraine.
- Benefits:
- More security for both foreigners and employers—foreigners will hold a standard residence and work permit in the Czech Republic for up to 3 years (while a Tolerance Visa requires annual work permit extensions).
- Time spent under the Employee Card/Blue Card will fully count toward the required years for permanent residency applications.
- Ukrainians with a long-term visa in another country for at least 2 years
- These applicants can now apply for an Employee Card through the government migration program at Czech embassies in Kyiv and Lviv.
- Holders of Temporary Protection or International Protection in another EU country
- They are now eligible to apply for an Employee Card or Blue Card through government migration programs without having to visit a Czech embassy in person.
- Ukrainians currently in Ukraine
- The procedure remains the same: they can apply for an Employee Card or Blue Card at the Czech embassies in Lviv or Kyiv through government migration programs, provided they meet the travel requirements.
- Ukrainians with long-term or permanent residence in another country for at least 2 years
- These individuals can submit their applications for an Employee Card or Blue Card at the Czech embassy in the country where they hold a valid long-term or permanent residence permit.
Applying for an Employee Card or Blue Card can involve administrative challenges, but with proper preparation, the process can go smoothly.
Need assistance navigating the application steps? Contact us for guidance!
Image source: Canva
Text source: zamestnavemecizince.cz, ipc.gov.cz, mzv.gov.cz, portal-mojedane.cz