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

The Czech Republic, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, is a popular destination for Indians whether for tourism, business, study, or reunification with family and friends. This guide is designed to navigate Indian citizens through the process of obtaining a Czech Republic visa, covering both short-stay (Schengen) and long-stay visa requirements.

Yes, Indian citizens require a visa to enter the Czech Republic. The Czech Republic is part of the Schengen Area, which implements a common visa policy among its member states.

A. Schengen Visa (Short-Stay Visa)

• Duration: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
• Purpose: Tourism, visiting family/friends, business, transit, or other short-term stays.
• Application Process: Usually processed within 15 calendar days, but can take up to 60 days in some cases.

B. Long-Stay Visa

• Duration: Over 90 days.
• Purpose: Study, work, family reunion, or other long-term stays.
• Application Process: Typically takes 60-120 days, but can vary.

General Requirements:

Valid Passport:

• Issued within the last 10 years.
• Valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area.
• At least two blank pages.

Filled Application Form:

• Download, fill, print, and sign the Schengen visa application form.
• Ensure all information matches your passport.

Recent Photos:

• 2-3, depending on the embassy/consulate’s requirements.
• Meet the Schengen visa photo criteria (35x45mm, recent, and biometric compatible).

Travel Health Insurance:

• Covering at least €30,000 for the entire Schengen Area.
• Valid for the whole stay.

Flight Itinerary or Reservation:

• Confirming return or onward travel.

Proof of Accommodation:

• Hotel reservation.
• Rental agreement.
• Letter of invitation if staying with a host (with the host’s ID and proof of residence).

Proof of Financial Means:

• Bank statement showing sufficient funds (approximately €42 per day for the Czech Republic, but this can vary).
• Sometimes, proof of income or a sponsorship letter.

Employment Letter or Student ID (if applicable):

• To justify the purpose of stay and show ties to India.

Additional Requirements by Purpose:

For Tourism:

• Detailed travel itinerary.
• Proof of hotel booking or confirmation of accommodation.

For Visiting Family/Friends:

• Invitation letter from the host with their ID.
• Proof of relationship.
• Sometimes, a notarized affidavit of support.

For Business:

• Invitation from the Czech company.
• Business registration documents.
• Detailed itinerary.

As per the Czech Republic Visa Requirements, the photo specification are mentioned below -

• The Czech Republic visa photo size -  35mm X 45mm
• Colour: Coloured
• Head must occupy the central position
• Must be 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

Overview:

Long-stay visas are for stays exceeding 90 days. Requirements are more detailed and vary significantly by purpose.

Requirements by Purpose:

Work Visa:

• Employment Contract: With a Czech employer.
• Work Permit: Issued by the Czech Labour Office.
• Qualification Recognition: If applicable.
• Proof of Accommodation.

Study Visa:

• Admission Letter: From a Czech educational institution.
• Proof of Financial Means: Increased amounts, typically around €6,000 per year.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive, not just travel insurance.
• Accommodation Confirmation.

Family Reunion Visa:

• Proof of Family Relationship: Birth/Marriage certificates, etc.
• Invitation Letter: From the family member residing in the Czech Republic.
• Proof of Financial Means: Of the family member in the Czech Republic.
• Health Insurance.

Step-by-Step Application Process:

Check the Latest Requirements: On the official website of the Czech Embassy in India or consult the embassy/consulate directly.

Gather All Required Documents: Ensure everything is up-to-date and meets the requirements.

Fill the Application Form: Accurately and completely.

Book an Appointment (if necessary): At the Czech Embassy, Consulate General, or a Visa Application Center (VAC) if available.

Submit Your Application:

• In person (recommended for first-time applicants).
• Through a trusted representative (with a notarized power of attorney).
• Through a VAC (for an additional service fee, if available for Czech visas).

Pay the Visa Fee:

• Schengen Visa: Currently €60 (approximately INR 4,800) for adults; €35 (about INR 2,800) for children from 6 to 12 years old. Children under 6 years old are exempt.
• Long-Stay Visa: Fees vary by purpose, typically ranging from €60 to €200.
• Additional Fees for Service Providers (if used).

Wait for the Decision:

• Processing Time: Typically 15 calendar days for Schengen visas, 60-120 days for long-stay visas.
• Collect Your Passport: Once the decision is made, either in person or through a trusted representative, depending on the submission method.

Submission Methods:

• Czech Embassy in New Delhi
• Consulate General in Mumbai
• Visa Application Centers (VACs): If available for Czech Republic visa applications in India.

Apply Early: To account for any unexpected delays.

Double-Check Documents: Ensure all are valid, complete, and meet the requirements.

Be Prepared for the Interview: If invited for an interview, be prepared to discuss your trip in detail.

Stay Informed: Regularly check the embassy/consulate’s website for updates.

Czech Embassy in New Delhi

• Address: 50-M, Niti Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi - 110021
• Phone: +91 11 2415 5200
• Email: newdelhi@embassy.cz
• Website: www.mzv.cz/newdelhi

Consulate General in Mumbai

• Address: Nariman Bhavan, 6th Floor, Backbay Reclamation, Mumbai - 400021
• Phone: +91 22 2287 6634
• Email: mumbai@embassy.cz
• Website: www.mzv.cz/mumbai