Czech Republic Tourist Visa - Everything You Need To Know - (Indian Passport Holders)

Also known as the Czech Republic Schengen tourist visa, this type of Czech permit lets you enter the country for the purpose of tourism. Meaning, you can take part in sight-seeing, leisure activities, adventure activities, and so on in Czechia. Issued for a period of 90 days, the visa is valid for up to 180 days from the issue date. The permit is issued as single-entry, double-entry, and multiple entries. Also, in certain cases, you may receive a permit with Limited Territorial Validity (LTV). In these scenarios, you will be allowed to visit only the mentioned Schengen state(s).

To apply for the Czech tourist permit, you will need to check if you are eligible for the category. If you are, you can proceed to obtain the necessary documents as per the type you are applying for. Once this is done, you may proceed as follows - 

1. Fill in your details in the application form. You can do this offline by downloading the form from the Czech Republic embassy website and then printing it and filling it, or type in the details online 0and then print it. 
2. Proceed to book your visa appointment at one of the VACs, or at the Embassy of the Czech Republic. You can do this online, or by simply calling or emailing them. 
3. With the completed application form and the documents, attend the visa interview. You will also have to pay the fees and submit your biometrics here.

Please note that if you have submitted the biometrics to the VIS (Visa Information System) in the last 5 years, you are not required to submit them again. Also, you may not have to submit the application in person.

Make sure that you submit all the original documents, and perform translation to the Czech language if necessary. Submission of fake documents or incorrect information will lead to visa rejection. 

To be able to apply for the Czech Republic tourist visa from India, you must meet the following criteria - 

• You must be in India while applying in the country. If you are residing in a residence permit in a foreign nation, you can apply it to the embassy over there. 
• You must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel.
• Your sole purpose of the visit has to be to take part in tourist activities.
• You must have sufficient funds to cover your stay in the country.
• You should be covered by medical travel insurance.
• You must apply for the permit only if -

• 1. Czechia is your only destination, or
  2. Czechia is one of your multiple Schengen destinations -  in which case you will be spending the majority of the time here, or, you are spending time in all the other destinations where the Czech Republic is your port of entry.

As per the Czech Republic tourist visa requirements, you must submit the following list of documents - 

4.1 Valid Travel Documents

• Indian Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area, with at least 2 blank pages.
• Copies of Previous Passports: Especially if you have previous Schengen visas.

4.2 Completed Visa Application Form

• Schengen Visa Application Form: Download from the Czech Embassy/Consulate or VFS Global website, fill in carefully, and sign.
• Specify "Tourism" as the purpose of your visit.

4.3 Photographs

• 2 Recent Passport-Sized Photos: Meeting Schengen visa photo requirements (35x45 mm, white background, neutral expression).

4.4 Proof of Stay

• Hotel Booking or Confirmation: Covering the entire stay in the Czech Republic.
• Invitation Letter (if visiting friends/family): Must be certified by the relevant Czech authority.

4.5 Proof of Financial Means

• Bank Statement (last 3 months): Showing a minimum balance of approximately ₹1,50,000 / €1,800 per person.
• Proof of Income (e.g., salary slip, employment certificate).

4.6 Travel Health Insurance

• Policy with a Minimum Coverage of €30,000: Valid for the entire Schengen Area, covering emergency medical and hospital expenses, including repatriation.

4.7 Flight Itinerary

• Round-Trip Flight Booking or Travel Agency's Confirmation.

4.8 Additional Documents (if applicable)

• Proof of Retirement (for retirees)
• Student ID and Proof of Enrollment (for students)
• Cover Letter explaining the purpose of your visit

The photo specifications for Czech Republic Tourist Visa are mentioned below -

• Dimensions:  35mm X 45mm
• Colour: Coloured 
• Head must occupy the central position
• Must be recently captured within the last 3 months
• Background: Solid, plain white or grey
• 80% face coverage
• Neutral expression
• Glasses: Non-thick framed and prescription are permitted
• Headgears are allowed only for religious reasons
• Facial hair is permitted

The processing time for the Czech tourist permit depends on a number of factors such as the volume of application at the embassy, the number of entries for this visa, any express processing option, and so on. Due to the variable nature of this, you are expected to apply for the permit well in advance, but no less than 15 days before you travel. 

The total fees for the process of obtaining the permit depend on aspects such as the number of entries, the biometric charges, service charges at the VAC, as well as any other service charges. It also varies according to the currency rates. As a result, you are expected to check the exact amount while applying. 

Once you have paid the fees and submitted the application, it will begin processing. If the embassy requires additional verification or documentation, you will be notified. You may collect the approved permit directly at the VAC or embassy in person, or have them delivered to you for specific prices. 

While you are awaiting a response, you can check the status of your application by entering the reference number and name at the online portal of the VAC. Alternately, you can contact your travel agency, or the embassy directly via call or email. In the meanwhile, you may opt to receive the notifications via SMS. 

10.1 Prepare Documents

1. Review the Requirements: Carefully go through the list of required documents for a Czech Republic Tourist Visa (as outlined in Section 5 of this guide).
2. Gather Documents: Collect all necessary documents, ensuring they meet the specified criteria (e.g., validity period for passports, format for photos).
3. Verify Document Accuracy: Double-check each document for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to the requirements.
4. Make Copies: Make photocopies of all documents as specified (usually, one set of photocopies in addition to the originals).
5. Organize Your Documents: Arrange your documents in the order specified by VFS Global or the Czech Embassy/Consulate, if submitting directly.

Tips for This Step:

• Start Early: Gathering documents can take time, especially if you need to obtain new documents (e.g., a new passport, birth certificate).
• Use Checklists: To ensure no document is forgotten.
• Seek Help if Needed: For translation services (if required) or advice on document preparation.

10.2 Choose the Correct Visa Application Center: VFS Global in India

• Identify VFS Global Centers: Visit the VFS Global website for the Czech Republic (www.vfsglobal.com/czechrepublic/india/) to find a center near you.

1. Select Your Center: Choose a VFS Global center that is most convenient for you, considering factors like location, operating hours, and the ability to return for passport collection.
2. Verify Center Details: Confirm the address, contact number, email, and working hours of your chosen center.

VFS Global Centers in India for Czech Republic Visa Applications:

• New Delhi
• Mumbai
• Bengaluru
• Chennai
• Kolkata
• Hyderabad (limited services)

Tips for This Step:

• Check for Updates: Ensure the center's details and operational status are up-to-date.
• Consider Travel Time: If you need to travel to the center, factor in travel time and potential accommodation needs.

10.3 Book an Appointment: Online through the VFS Global Website

• Access the VFS Global Website: Go to www.vfsglobal.com/czechrepublic/india/ and navigate to the "Book an Appointment" section.

1. Register/Login: If you're a new user, register; otherwise, log in with your credentials.
2. Select Services: Choose "Czech Republic" as the destination country and "Tourist" as the visa type.
3. Choose Your Center & Date/Time: Select your preferred VFS Global center and an available date and time slot for your appointment.
4. Confirm Appointment Details: Review and confirm your appointment details.
5. Receive Appointment Confirmation: Get a confirmation email with your appointment details.

Tips for This Step:

• Book in Advance: To secure your preferred date and time, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Be Flexible: If possible, consider less busy periods for a smoother experience.

10.4 Submit Your Application: At the Chosen VFS Global Center

1. Arrive at the VFS Global Center: Reach the center with ample time to spare before your appointment.
2. Proceed to the Reception: Inform the staff of your arrival for your scheduled appointment.
3. Document Verification: A VFS Global representative will verify your documents.
4. Submission: Once verified, your application will be submitted.
5. Receive a Receipt: Get a receipt for your application submission and the fees paid.

Tips for This Step:

• Arrive Early: To account for any unexpected delays.
• Ensure Document Readiness: Double-check that all documents are in order before submission.

10.5 Biometric Data Collection: Fingerprints

1. Biometric Data Collection Area: After submitting your application, proceed to the designated biometric data collection area.
2. Fingerprint Scanning Process: A VFS Global representative will guide you through the fingerprint scanning process.
3. Collection of Fingerprints: Your fingerprints will be collected digitally.

Exemptions from Biometric Data Collection:

• Children Under 12 Years
• Persons with Physical Constraints (with valid medical certification)
• Heads of State and Members of National Governments (with valid diplomatic or official passports)

Tips for This Step:

• Be Prepared: Understand the process to make it as smooth as possible.
• Ask Questions: If you have any concerns or need assistance.

10.6 Pay the Visa Fee: Include the VFS Service Fee

1. Fee Payment Counter: Proceed to the designated fee payment area at the VFS Global center.
2. Calculate Total Fee: The total will include the Visa Application Fee and the VFS Service Fee.
3. Pay the Fees: Using the accepted payment methods (cash, credit/debit cards).
4. Receive Payment Receipt: Get a receipt for your payment.

Fees (Approximate):

• Visa Application Fee for Adults: ₹4,600 (€55)
• Visa Application Fee for Children (6-12 years): €35
• VFS Service Fee: ₹618 (inclusive of taxes)

Tips for This Step:

• Check Payment Methods: In advance to ensure you're prepared.
• Keep Your Receipt: For your records and in case of any discrepancies.

10.7 Track Your Application: Use the VFS Global Tracking Service

• Access the VFS Global Website: Visit www.vfsglobal.com/czechrepublic/india/.

1. Navigate to the Tracking Section: Find the "Track Your Application" link.
2. Enter Your Tracking ID: Provided to you after submitting your application.
3. Check Your Application Status: View the current status of your application.

Tips for This Step:

• Track Regularly: To stay updated on the progress of your application.
• Contact VFS Global if Necessary: If you notice any discrepancies or have concerns.

10.8 Collect Your Passport: Once the Visa is Approved

1. Notification of Application Approval: You'll be notified by VFS Global once your visa is approved.
2. Visit the VFS Global Center: Go to the same center where you submitted your application.
3. Proceed to the Passport Collection Counter: Inform the staff that you're there to collect your passport.
4. Verify Your Identity: You may be asked to verify your identity.
5. Collect Your Passport: Receive your passport with the visa (if approved).

Tips for This Step:

• Verify the Visa Details: Ensure all information on the visa sticker is correct.
• Contact the Embassy/Consulate or VFS Global if Issues Arise: Regarding any discrepancies or if your visa is not approved.

• New Delhi
• Mumbai
• Bengaluru
• Chennai
• Kolkata
• Hyderabad (limited services)

• Method: Online through the VFS Global website.
• Recommendation: Book in advance to secure your preferred date and time.

• Location: At the chosen VFS Global center.
• Time: As per your appointment.
• Ensure: All documents are complete and in order.

• Fingerprints: Collected at the VFS Global center.
• Exemptions: Children under 12, persons with physical constraints, and heads of state.

• Location: The VFS Global center where you submitted your application.
• Time: As notified by VFS Global.
• Check: Ensure all details and the visa sticker are correct.

• Apply Early: At least 2 weeks before your trip.
• Complete Application: Ensure all documents are in order.
• Check Updates: On the Czech Embassy/Consulate and VFS Global websites.
• Common Issues: Incomplete applications, insufficient financial means, and unclear purpose of visit.

• Czech Embassy in India: www.mzv.cz/newdelhi
• VFS Global Czech Republic: www.vfsglobal.com/czechrepublic/india/
• Schengen Visa Information: www.schengenvisainfo.com

Need more clarity on Czech visa? check out helpful resources below

• Czech Republic Visa Requirements
• Czech Republic Tourist Visa Requirements
• Czech Republic Business Visa Requirements
• Czech Republic Visit Visa Requirements