Czechia Family Reunion Visa

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

Last update 29 August, 2025

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Czech Republic Rating from Citizen Remote

Overall 4.4

Internet Infrastructure 5.0

Country Stability 5.0

Cost of Living 3.0

Ease of Obtaining Visa 5.0

Taxes 4.0

Quick Visa Facts

Visa length Up to 1 year.

Possible to extend? Yes, provided all requirements continue to be met.

Who can apply? Spouses, minor children, dependent adult children, and certain other close family members of third-country nationals legally residing in Czechia.

Minimum Income Requirements Show that your household has at least 3,130 CZK (≈ 140 USD) per person per month.

Time for visa applications Average processing time is around 270 days.

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Planning to reunite with your loved ones in Czechia? The Long-Term Residence Permit for the Purpose of Family Reunification is the official pathway that allows close family members of foreign nationals legally living in the country to join them and build a life together.

This permit is designed for spouses, children, and, in certain cases, other dependent family members who wish to live with their relatives in Czechia for more than a short visit. Unlike a simple short-term visa, the long-term residence permit gives families the stability to stay together, access essential services, and integrate into everyday life.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from who can apply, how the process works and what rights this residence permit grants you.

Czechia Family Reunion Visa Overview

The Long-Term Residence Permit for the Purpose of Family Reunification is the official pathway that enables eligible family members of third-country nationals residing in Czechia to join them for stays longer than one year.

This permit replaces or complements the long-term visa for family purposes, creating a structured two-stage process: first, entering with the long-term family visa (valid up to 1 year), then transitioning to the residence permit for longer-term stays.

Who Is It For?

This permit is intended for third-country nationals who are close family members of foreign residents in Czechia, including:

Spouses (including same-sex registered partners)
Minor children (under age 18), stepchildren, or adopted children.
Dependent adult children (unable to care for themselves for medical reasons)
Children under guardianship or in the custody of a third-country resident.
Lone parents (over 65, or of any age if unable to care for themselves medically)
Family members of persons granted asylum (spouses, minor children, or relatives in the ascending line under certain conditions)

What Does It Allow You to Do?

Once approved, this residence permit offers:

Repeated entry to and exit from Czechia without needing a new visa.
Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.
Free access to the Czech labor market, meaning you can work without an additional permit.

Czechia Family Reunion Visa Requirements

When applying for the Czechia family reunion visa, you will need to prepare both general documents and specific supporting evidence.

Every applicant must provide:

Completed application form
Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years, with at least 2 blank pages, valid at least 3 months beyond the intended stay)
Recent passport-size photographs (usually 2, 3.5 × 4.5 cm, light background)
Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, adoption documents, or other official proof)
Proof of accommodation in Czechia (rental agreement, property ownership, or written consent from the owner)
Payment of the application fee (varies depending on embassy or place of submission)

Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency

You must show that your household has at least 3,130 CZK (≈ 140 USD) per person per month plus housing costs to meet the financial self-sufficiency requirement.

This means proving that your combined monthly income meets or exceeds both:

The minimum living costs for all family members, and
Either the official normative housing cost set by law, or your actual justified housing expenses if higher.

Authorities may also request a declaration allowing them to verify your income directly with the tax office.

Criminal Record Extract

Applicants over 15 years old must provide official extracts from:

Their country of citizenship, and
Any country where they have lived for more than 6 consecutive months in the last 3 years.

These documents must be officially authenticated and translated into Czech.

Private Health Insurance

If you are applying from outside Czechia, you must arrange travel medical insurance covering at least €60,000 for the entire duration of your intended stay. Once in Czechia, you are required to switch to comprehensive medical insurance valid in the country.

Travel insurance is not accepted; it must be long-term residency health insurance. You can find our recommendations for the best health insurance plans here.

Parental Consent (For Minors)

If a child applies without both parents or legal guardians present, written consent is required from the absent parent(s). Exceptions apply if the child is under the custody of the applying parent, will reside with the custodial parent in Czechia, or if obtaining consent is impossible for reasons beyond the control.

Translation and Validity of Documents

All foreign documents must be officially translated into Czech and properly authenticated. With the exception of passports, birth certificates, and photographs, most submitted documents must not be older than 180 days.

How to Apply for the Czechia Family Reunion Visa – Step-by-Step Instructions

Applying for Czechia family reunion visa involves several structured steps. Follow this guide to ensure a smooth process.

Step 1: Gather All Required Documents

Before submitting your application, collect all basic documents and special requirements, including: application form, valid passport, photographs, proof of family relationship, proof of accommodation, financial self-sufficiency, insurance, and criminal record extracts.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

From Abroad: Apply at the Czech embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
Within Czechia: If you already hold a valid long-term visa, you can apply at the Ministry of the Interior.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

The application fee for the Long-Term Residence Permit for the Purpose of Family Reunification is CZK 2,500 (approximately €102 or $110 USD).

This fee is payable when you submit your application. For applications submitted within Czechia, the fee must be paid by credit card at a Ministry of the Interior office.

Step 4: Biometric Data Collection

As part of the application process, applicants over the age of 15 are required to provide biometric data. This includes:

Fingerprinting: Digital fingerprints are taken for identification purposes.
Photograph: A digital photograph is captured to be used on the residence permit card.

These biometric details are essential for the issuance of your residence permit.

Step 5: Attend an Interview (if requested)

In some cases, authorities may call applicants for an interview to clarify documents, family relationships, or financial means.

Step 6: Wait for Processing

The Ministry of the Interior typically processes applications for the Long-Term Residence Permit for the Purpose of Family Reunification within 270 days from the date of submission. However, in some cases, the process may take longer.

Step 7: Receive Your Visa / Permit

Once approved, you will receive a long-term visa (if applying from abroad) or a residence permit card (if converting a visa within Czechia). Check the validity dates carefully and make note of renewal deadlines.

Step 8: Register Your Residence

After arrival in Czechia, you may need to register your address with the local foreign authority within a specified time frame. This completes the legal stay requirement.

Stay Requirements for the Czechia Family Reunion Visa

Once granted, the Long-Term Residence Permit for the Purpose of Family Reunification comes with specific rules to maintain your legal stay in Czechia. You must actually reside in Czechia for the majority of the permit’s validity period, as extended absences can affect renewal or future eligibility for permanent residence. Upon arrival, you are required to register your address with the local foreigner authority, and any subsequent changes of address must be reported promptly.

It is essential to continue meeting the original conditions of the permit, including maintaining accommodation, health insurance, and financial self-sufficiency. Any changes in family status, such as divorce or a child leaving the household, should be reported to the authorities. The permit generally allows you to work or study in Czechia without additional authorization, but ensure that your activities do not violate the purpose of the permit.

To extend your stay, you must apply for renewal before your current permit expires, providing updated documentation that demonstrates you continue to satisfy all requirements, including financial means, insurance, and housing.

How Much Does the Czechia Family Reunion Visa Cost?

Applying for the Long-Term Residence Permit for the Purpose of Family Reunification involves several fees you should be aware of.

The standard application fee is 2,500 CZK (approximately $110 USD). This is paid when submitting your application, either at the embassy abroad or at the Ministry of the Interior within Czechia.
Additional costs may include document preparation, such as certified translations, notarizations, or authentication of official documents.
You may also need to cover biometric processing fees if applicable, which are generally included in the application fee but could vary slightly by embassy.
Health insurance is a mandatory requirement and its cost depends on your provider and the coverage selected. Applicants should ensure insurance meets the minimum required coverage for the entire period of stay.

Overall, while the base application fee is fixed, applicants should budget extra for translations, document authentication, and health insurance to ensure all requirements are met.

Taxes for People With a Czechia Family Reunion Visa

Holders of the Czechia family reunion visa are mostly considered residents for tax purposes if they live in Czechia for more than 183 days in a calendar year. This means you may be liable to pay taxes on your worldwide income, depending on your personal situation and any applicable double taxation treaties.

Income earned in Czechia, including salaries or wages, is subject to the Czech income tax system, which includes progressive rates for individuals. Employers typically withhold income tax and social security contributions from your salary automatically.

Even if you do not work, other taxable income such as rental income, dividends, or capital gains may need to be reported. Non-working family members are generally not required to pay social security contributions, but may still be subject to health insurance obligations.

It’s important to maintain proper records and, if necessary, consult the Czech Tax Administration or a certified tax advisor to ensure compliance with local tax laws and avoid penalties.

Living in Czechia with the Family Reunion Visa

Living in Czechia with the family reunion visa allows you and your family to settle into everyday life with stability and security. Once your permit is granted, you can reside legally in the country, access healthcare with proper insurance, enroll children in school, and benefit from the rights afforded to residents, including work and study opportunities. The permit provides a solid foundation for integrating into Czech society, making it possible to build a home and participate fully in community life.

Daily life in Czechia offers a high standard of living, excellent public services, and a family-friendly environment. Cities like Prague, Brno, and Ostrava provide diverse employment opportunities, cultural activities, and international schools, while smaller towns and rural areas offer a quieter lifestyle with close-knit communities. Holding the family reunion visa ensures that your stay is legal and uninterrupted, giving you peace of mind as you plan your family’s future in the country.

Best Cities to Live in Czechia

Prague

Prague, the capital of Czechia, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city known for its stunning architecture, historic charm, and abundant cultural offerings. It is the country’s main economic hub, providing a wide range of employment opportunities, international schools, and healthcare facilities. With excellent public transportation, a lively social scene, and numerous parks and recreational areas, Prague is ideal for families and professionals seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle.

Brno

Brno, the country’s second-largest city, offers a perfect balance between urban convenience and a relaxed pace of life. It is a major center for education, technology, and research, attracting students and professionals from across Europe. Brno’s affordable housing, family-friendly neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural scene make it an appealing choice for those seeking quality living without the higher costs of Prague.

Ostrava

Ostrava, located in the northeast, is known for its industrial heritage and rapidly developing modern infrastructure. The city has undergone significant revitalization, offering affordable housing, good public services, and access to nature, including parks and nearby mountains. Ostrava is ideal for families or individuals looking for a more affordable, community-focused lifestyle while still having access to work opportunities and cultural amenities.

Cost of Living

The official currency of the Czech Republic is the Czech koruna (CZK). 1 CZK = approximately $0.045 USD.

The average net monthly salary in the Czech Republic is around 36,330 CZK, which equates to approximately $1,640 USD.

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay in different cities:

Prague

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) - $1,090 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) - $1,450 per month
Basic Utilities - $315 per month
Wi-Fi - $27 per month
Public Transport - $1.30 one-way
Groceries (2 people) - $400–$500 per month

Brno

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) - $740 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) - $1,010 per month
Basic Utilities - $159 per month
Wi-Fi - $19 per month
Public Transport - $1.10 one-way
Groceries (2 people) - $230–$460 per month

Ostrava

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) - $507 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) - $780 per month
Basic Utilities - $221 per month
Wi-Fi - $17 per month
Public Transport - $1.30 one-way
Groceries (2 people) - $400–$450 per month

FAQs

Who can apply for the Czechia family reunion visa?

Spouses, minor children, dependent adult children, and certain other close family members of third-country nationals legally residing in Czechia can apply for this visa.

How long does it take to process the family reunion visa?

The average processing time for the long-term residence permit is around 270 days, although it can take longer in some cases depending on the embassy or local authority.

Can I work or study in Czechia with this visa?

Yes, the visa generally allows holders to work or study without requiring additional permits, as long as the activities do not violate the purpose of the visa.

Do I need health insurance to apply for the visa?

Yes, applicants must have travel medical insurance covering at least €60,000 if applying from abroad, and comprehensive health insurance is required for the duration of stay in Czechia.

Can I extend my stay or apply for permanent residence?

Yes, you can apply to extend your long-term residence permit before it expires, provided you continue to meet all requirements. After several years of legal residence, you may also become eligible to apply for permanent residence in Czechia.

Can I get help applying for the Czechia Family Reunion Visa?

If you need help applying for a visa, you can talk to Citizen Remote. Get specific advice from one of our experts, or outsource the entire application to our team.

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