Czech Republic (Czechia)

🇨🇿

Phone Code

+420

Capital

Prague

Population

10.9 Million

Native Name

Česká republika

Region

Europe

Eastern Europe

Timezone

Central European Time

UTC+01:00

The Czech Republic (officially known as Czechia) is a landlocked Central European country and EU/Schengen member, known for Prague's fairy-tale architecture, medieval castles, world-famous beer culture, Bohemian crystal, and spa towns. Prague, the capital, features Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Astronomical Clock, and stunning Gothic and Baroque buildings. Visitors are drawn to Prague's Old Town Square and castle district, Český Krumlov medieval town (UNESCO site), Karlovy Vary spa resort, Pilsen (Plzeň) breweries, Kutná Hora's Bone Church, Bohemian Switzerland National Park rock formations, and rich musical heritage. The Czech Republic offers Central European charm at reasonable prices.

Visa Requirements for Czech Republic

As a Schengen Area member, the Czech Republic follows standard Schengen visa policies. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can enter with just a valid ID card or passport for unlimited stays. Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many other countries can enter visa-free for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The 90/180 rule applies across the entire Schengen Area. Those requiring Schengen visas should apply through Czech embassies or consulates (or other Schengen country missions), submitting completed application forms, passport photographs, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage), proof of financial means, and purpose-specific documents. Processing typically takes 15 calendar days.

Common Visa Types

Visa-Free Entry (Schengen)

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period; applies to entire Schengen Area including Czech Republic; passport must be valid 3 months beyond departure.

For tourism, business, conferences, visiting friends/family for US, UK, Australia, Canada, and other eligible nationalities.

EU/EEA/Swiss Entry

Unlimited stay; can enter with valid national ID card or passport; freedom of movement rights apply; can work without permit.

For EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens for tourism, work, residence, or any purpose without restrictions.

Schengen Visa (Type C)

Up to 90 days within 180-day period; valid for all Schengen countries; single, double, or multiple entry; processing 15 days; €80 fee adults, €40 children.

For short-term stays including tourism, business, cultural events, conferences for nationalities requiring Schengen visa.

National Visa (Type D)

Beyond 90 days; requires specific purpose documentation; leads to residence permit; Czech-specific, though allows Schengen transit.

For long-term stays exceeding 90 days including work, study, family reunification, or residence in Czech Republic.

Important Travel Information

Passport validity: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen Area. Issued within last 10 years. Ensure blank pages.

90/180 rule: Maximum 90 days in any 180-day period across entire Schengen Area, not just Czech Republic. Calculator available at schengenvisainfo.com.

Travel insurance: Required for Schengen visa applicants with minimum €30,000 coverage. Recommended for all travelers despite visa-free entry.