The Czech government has approved a new law to modernize the management of foreign nationals residing within its borders. Approved on August 28, 2024, the legislation aims to reduce administrative burdens, digitize immigration procedures, and clarify existing regulations. The bill, drafted by the Ministry of the Interior, now moves to the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic.
The Czech government approved a new law on August 28, 2024, to modernize the management of foreign nationals in the country. The legislation aims to reduce administrative burdens, digitize immigration procedures, and clarify regulations. Drafted by the Ministry of the Interior, the bill now moves to the Chamber of Deputies for further deliberation.
The new law updates outdated regulations and simplifies the entry and residence of foreigners in the Czech Republic. It maintains existing residency rules while focusing on clarity and efficiency. Changes include digitizing immigration processes, a new registration system for EU citizens, and enhancing the role of sponsors.
Interior Minister Vít Rakušan stated that digitizing the residency process will accelerate and simplify it. The new law also modifies the registration process for EU citizens staying over 90 days, aiding local infrastructure planning. Registration for EU citizens will be voluntary until 2026 and mandatory from 2027.
The legislation highlights the role of sponsors, defining their rights and responsibilities within the residency process. The law will take effect on January 1, 2026, alongside the new information system, promising a more efficient experience for foreign nationals in the Czech Republic for further deliberation.
The current law governing the entry and residence of foreigners in the Czech Republic has become outdated and convoluted due to frequent amendments. The Ministry of the Interior has addressed this by drafting a comprehensive new law based on the existing framework. This new legislation maintains the existing rules regarding residency but focuses on improving clarity and efficiency. Key changes include the digitalization of immigration processes, a new registration system for EU citizens, and a strengthened role for sponsors.
Interior Minister Vít Rakušan stated "By digitizing the entire residency process, we will accelerate and simplify it,". "We are currently building a new information system. Foreign nationals will be provided with an electronic identity, allowing them to communicate with authorities from the comfort of their homes and vice versa."
The new law also introduces changes to the registration process for EU citizens wishing to stay in the Czech Republic for more than 90 days. This will enable local authorities to better plan infrastructure in areas such as education, healthcare, waste management, and parking. While registration for EU citizens will remain voluntary in 2026, it will become mandatory from 2027 onwards.
The legislation also emphasizes the role of sponsors – individuals or entities (educational, scientific, or cultural institutions, employers, sports clubs, etc.) who vouch for the purpose of a foreigner's stay in the Czech Republic. The law will clearly define the rights and responsibilities of sponsors, strengthening their accountability within the residency process.
The new law is slated to take effect on January 1, 2026, coinciding with the launch of the new information system. This comprehensive overhaul promises a more efficient and user-friendly experience for foreign nationals seeking to live and work in the Czech Republic.
Komentarze