Lenka Landová spent years in the corporate environment before deciding to take a different path – one closer to people and their life stories. After taking a proper break to reflect and breathe, she joined the team at Foreigners in January 2024 as an assistant.
Very soon, she realised that helping expats in the Czech Republic was far more fulfilling than she had imagined.
“I started as an assistant, but working with people really grabbed me. That’s why I decided to become a consultant – to be there for the clients from A to Z,” Lenka explains. Since May 2024, she’s been working as a freelance Expat & Immigration Consultant, supporting foreigners navigating complex immigration processes.
Every day is different – and that’s the magic of it
What does a regular workday look like for Lenka? In short: there’s no such thing as a typical day. She constantly adjusts to her clients’ needs while balancing her own rhythm – she’s a mum of two and volunteers in a non-profit organisation.
“Flexibility is key. That’s why I prefer scheduled consultations and email communication. This way we can adapt to each other’s needs,” she says.
Her daily work might involve getting documents notarised, consulting about student visas, preparing a resident permit application, or assisting with translations.
“Except for a few recurring services like diploma nostrification, most cases are tailored to the individual client.” she adds. “I haven’t been bored once this year – and I love that.”
What’s your approach when working with clients?
“Honesty and clear expectations. I never offer full relocation services right away. First, we do an initial consultation to see what the client actually needs – and only then they decide whether to proceed.”
Lenka believes that people must know what lies ahead – including the process, the time involved and the cost. It’s not about selling illusions, but about realistic and informed planning.
It’s not just paperwork – it’s about settling in
Although her work focuses on administration, Lenka never limits herself to just forms and documents. She also helps clients handle their first weeks and months in a new country.
Can you remember a client whose life changed because of your help?
“Yes. I helped a student from Ukraine who had been living in Slovakia since the war started. He wanted to study in Prague, but applying in person would have meant returning to Ukraine. So we submitted the application for a long-term visa via post through the Czech embassy – and today he’s really studying in Prague. I also helped him with his diploma recognition, and we still see each other. It’s amazing to see his dream come true.”
Have you ever experienced a cultural misunderstanding or funny situation?
“I remember one Christmas email. I wasn’t sure whether to say ‘Merry Christmas’ or something more neutral, since not all of my clients celebrate it. So I wished them something like ‘Season’s Greetings’, and one client from India replied that she celebrates Christmas the same way we do.”
Lenka takes cultural diversity as a natural part of her job. According to her, openness, empathy and a bit of humour are the best ways to avoid misunderstandings.
What would Lenka change if she could?
With her extensive experience in immigration consultation, Lenka doesn’t hesitate to point out what could work better in the Czech system:
“For example, when a whole family applies for a resident permit, each member has to submit separate copies of the same documents. Why can’t it be linked as one family file?”
And what would make your job easier?
“Full digitalisation. No papers, no queues, just clear online communication. But I understand it’s not that easy – document forgery is still a real issue.”
Despite these challenges, Lenka never stops putting people first.
What Czech dish or tradition would you recommend to foreigners?
“Svíčková with homemade dumplings – but not every day!” she laughs. “And definitely explore the Czech countryside. Even in the cities we have beautiful parks and marked hiking trails. That’s one of our national treasures.”
What message would you like to share with those starting a new life in the Czech Republic?
“Everything is possible – some things just need time, patience and an open mind. I wish everyone the best on their journey!”
How to contact Lenka? Lenka is part of the Foreigners team in Prague and is best contacted via email. You can also find her professionally on LinkedIn, or read her thoughts on Quora.
