Frequently asked questions

How long does a visa take?

The Ministry of the Interior has a legal processing window of 2–4 months, depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. Once submitted, your application is handled in a secure government facility on the other side of the country. However, you can monitor its status online via the official IPC webpage. Based on our experience, we’ve seen approvals come through in as little as 20 days, with the average taking 8–12 weeks. We’re here to guide you every step of the way, so you always know what to expect.

What happens if my Visa is denied?

While it’s uncommon, visa denials can happen for a variety of reasons. If this occurs, an appeal can be filed. However, it’s important to understand that an appeal is not simply a way to fix errors. Rather, it’s a formal statement asserting that the government made a mistake, requesting that they carefully review your application again. We’ll guide you through this process to ensure your appeal is clear, strong, and has the best chance of success.

What if I switch jobs during my Trade License Visa application?

This issue has been a notorious stumbling block for visa applications. The Ministry may ask about your work plans, and your employer might respond that “you will be working under the conditions of the Trade License upon visa approval.” However, if you leave that job, they could inform the Ministry that you’re no longer employed, which could put your application at risk. To avoid complications, it’s usually best to stay with the job you applied with during the visa process. Don’t worry! There will always be plenty of other opportunities to explore in Prague once your visa is secured!

Do I have to pay taxes?

Yes, you do have obligations! If you’re an American or UK national, you are required to pay Czech social and health insurance on a monthly basis via bank transfer. You cannot be approved for a new visa if you owe any money to the state. Additionally, you must file Czech taxes at the end of the year if you’ve been legally working in the country. For non-American /UK passport holders, health insurance must be prepaid for the entire duration of the visa before it can be issued. Staying on top of these requirements ensures a smooth, worry-free experience in the Czech Republic!

What is a trade license?

A Trade License is your official permission to work as an independent contractor in the Czech Republic. This means you’ll complete tasks for companies, issue invoices, and receive payment directly without the benefits that come with traditional employment. It’s actually better to work with multiple companies on a part-time basis, because stating that you are “employed” by a single company could put your visa at risk, as your Trade License visa is specifically designed for independent contracting. With the right approach, this visa gives you flexibility, freedom, and a solid foundation for professional life in the Czech Republic!

What does it take to renew my Trade License visa?

The process is slightly different, but here are the key things to keep in mind: you cannot owe any money to the state, you must have filed your taxes by the end of April, or you need to provide proof through invoices or bank statements that you’ve been earning an acceptable amount if you have not been though a tax cycle yet. Make sure to check with your agent to confirm the exact requirements and amounts. Following these steps will keep your application on track and hassle-free!

What if a company wants to properly hire me?

This situation requires a completely different type of visa—an Employment Card visa—which follows a separate process. The concept is similar, but (based on your passport) you may need to provide a translated and officiated copy of your college diploma, complete with an apostille. Be sure you can obtain these documents before beginning the application to ensure a smooth and successful process!

Can I put money into my account, print a statement, and take it out?

Some applicants consider depositing a large sum of money into a bank account and then quickly withdrawing it to make it appear as though they have sufficient funds for their Czech visa. Technically, this can sometimes work, but we strongly discourage this approach. Visa authorities are increasingly savvy and may view such transactions as misleading, which could put your application at risk.

Instead, it’s far safer and more reliable to demonstrate genuine, consistent funds in your account over time. This not only shows financial stability but also builds trust with the authorities and reduces the chances of delays or complications. Your visa process should be as transparent and aboveboard as possible as there’s no shortcut that’s worth risking your approval. With careful planning and accurate documentation, you can prove your eligibility safely and confidently

I'm paying you for a visa right?

This one can be a bit tricky. When you work with us, you’re paying for expert assistance in assembling and submitting your application accurately and legally. We handle all the details—from managing your office visits to ensuring translations and small items are correctly completed—so you don’t have to worry about anything that could slow the process.

However, it’s important to understand that no agency can guarantee a visa approval. Any agency that claims otherwise is not being honest. The Ministry of the Interior does not provide a clear path to acceptance and frequently updates their rules and standards. As they state, “A visa is a privilege, not a right,” and they reserve the authority to deny an application for any reason. Our goal is to maximize your chances with thorough preparation and expert guidance, giving you confidence and peace of mind throughout the process.

Can I only work one job with a trade license?

A Trade License gives you access to over 60 different ways to invoice clients, offering incredible flexibility for your work. You can use your Trade License for a wide variety of services and projects. However, if you’re applying for a Trade License Visa based on a specific trade, the government will require a detailed business plan. They want to understand how your work will benefit both you and the Czech Republic if carried out in the country. A well-prepared plan is essential for demonstrating the value and legitimacy of your business activities.

Are you a lawyer?

We’re flattered that you think so, but we are not lawyers. If you ever find yourself in a legal situation, please reach out to us for a referral to a qualified lawyer, or seek one practicing locally in your city. We’re here to guide and support you through the visa process, but legal matters should always be handled by licensed professionals.

Services

VisaForce Services

VisaForce Pro

VisaForce is proud to bring you an exceptional Czech team led by Native English speaking professionals. With firsthand experience navigating multiple visa processes and over 3,500 successful visa approvals under our belt, we know exactly how to guide you with clarity and confidence. Whatever you need, we’re here to make your journey smooth, stress-free, and successful.

VisaForce TEFL

VisaForce is currently serving 4 active TEFL schools in Prague, and we treat each one with the diligence and quality that both the school and the students deserve. Allow us to work as an appendage of your business to strengthen your reputation and make sure your students have a resource for their integration into Czech life.