Navigating residency rights within the European Union can be complex, especially for non-EU nationals. One significant status that offers numerous advantages is the Long-Term Resident Status in the European Community. This article delves into what this status entails and its benefits.
What Is the Long-Term Resident Status in the EU?
The Long-Term Resident Status is a designation granted to non-EU nationals who have legally and continuously resided in an EU member state for at least five years. This status provides rights comparable to those of EU citizens, facilitating easier movement and residence within the EU. It’s important to note that this status is exclusively for non-EU nationals; EU citizens are not eligible.
Key Benefits
- Access to Employment and Business Opportunities: Holders of this status have the right to work and engage in business activities within the host country without the need for additional permits.
- Social Welfare Benefits: Long-term residents are entitled to social welfare benefits under the same conditions as nationals of the host country.
- Public Health Insurance: Eligibility to participate in the public health insurance system, ensuring access to medical services.
- Mobility Within the Schengen Area: The residence permit allows for repeated entry and exit from the host country and enables travel within the Schengen Area without the need for additional visas.
- Simplified Residency Application in the Czech Republic: Third-country nationals who already hold Long-Term Resident Status in another EU country can apply for residency in the Czech Republic directly at the MOI office. Unlike other third-country nationals, they do not need to submit their application at a Czech embassy abroad, which simplifies and speeds up the process.
It’s important to note that while this status provides numerous benefits, the specific rights and entitlements may vary depending on the legislation of the individual EU member state.
How to Apply for Long-Term Resident Status?
In most cases, third-country nationals must submit an application for Long-Term Resident Status at the MOI office, meeting conditions such as continuous legal residence for at least five years, stable income, and health insurance.
The application process involves meeting the following conditions:
- Continuous legal residence in the Czech Republic for at least five years
- Stable and regular income
- Valid health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Collect your biometric residence permit (BIO card)
The process involves the following steps:
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- Prepare the necessary documents (passport, proof of residence, financial statements, etc.).
- Fill in the application form and ensure all required documents are attached.
- Submit the application either by mail or by making an appointment at the MOI office.
- Wait for the decision – processing usually takes 30 to 60 days.
- Receive the result of the administrative proceedings.
- Schedule an appointment to provide biometric data.
- Attend the appointment to have biometric data taken.
The Special Case of UK Citizens
Following Brexit, UK nationals who were legally residing in the Czech Republic before 31 December 2020 retain their residency rights under the Withdrawal Agreement. This allows them to live, work, and conduct business in the Czech Republic without additional permits, similar to EU citizens. They were also issued biometric residence permits to confirm their status. However, if they wish to move to another EU country, they must apply for residence as third-country nationals. This applies specifically to UK nationals in this situation, and similarly, to holders of a Residence Permit for EU citizens. While they can travel freely within the Schengen Area for short stays, their long-term residency rights remain limited to the Czech Republic.
For the latest updates on Long-Term Resident Status rules in the EU, refer to the Council of the European Union’s announcement.
Understanding and obtaining Long-Term Resident Status in the EU can significantly enhance your rights and mobility within member states. If you have any questions or need assistance regarding your residency status, feel free to contact us. Our team is ready to provide guidance tailored to your situation.
Photo Source: Canva
Text Source: ipc.gov.cz, ipc.gov.cz, portal.gov.cz, ipc.gov.cz/en, consulium.europa.eu
Hello I’m Margaret from Africa Kenya I have a offer letter for Czech Republic. But problem is when I’m send my documents to apply for appointments date they not give me response so they take too long to get appointments date so I want to ask which telephone number I could use to get the appointments date
Dear Margaret, we are sorry to hear that you have problems with getting an appointment. Please follow the official website of the embassy in Nairobi where you can also find email/telephone contact details: https://mzv.gov.cz/nairobi/en/visas_and_consular_information/appointment_system.html
Visa process
Thank you for your questions. It would be best to schedule a consultation and discuss all conditions with our immigration experts. Please contact us at info@foreigners.cz and request consultation service
Wait a second, is it the same as permanent residence? If it is, isn’t proof of A2 level in Czech required as well?
If it is just the “usual” long-term residence, why is there a requirement of at least 5 years or residence in Czech Republic prior to the application? Long-term residence (also known as residence permit) is something every high-skilled worker (for example) applies for, after the arrival to Czech Republic, there is definitely no 5-year residence requirement for that.
Hi,
In short, Long-Term Resident Status in the EU = Permanent Residence in Czechia, which does require 5 years of residence and A2 Czech exam (unless exempt). If you were referring to a regular long-term residence permit, then that does not have the 5-year rule.