Do I Need a Visa to Prague?

By Alice Nichols

Planning a trip to Prague One of the first things you need to consider is whether you need a visa to enter the Czech Republic. Let’s delve into the visa requirements for Prague and find out if you’ll need one for your visit.

Visa-Free Entry

If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to visit Prague. You are free to travel to the Czech Republic and stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This rule applies whether your purpose of visit is tourism, business, or visiting family and friends.

Note: The EU countries include Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland,
Portugal,
Romania,
Slovakia,
Slovenia,
Spain,
Sweden.

Visa-Required Entry

If you are not a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland and wish to visit Prague for tourism or other purposes exceeding 90 days within any 180-day period

  • Short-Stay Visa: If your visit exceeds 90 days within any 180-day period but does not exceed 180 days in total duration,
  • Long-Stay Visa: If your visit exceeds 180 days in total duration.

To obtain either of these visas for Prague:

  1. Contact the nearest Czech embassy or consulate in your country.
  2. Gather all required documents such as a valid passport with at least six months validity, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, financial means to support yourself during your stay, and a completed visa application form.
  3. Submit your application along with the necessary documents.
  4. Pay the visa fee, which may vary depending on the type of visa you need.
  5. Attend an interview at the embassy or consulate if required.

Visa-Free Transit

If you are transiting through Prague and will not leave the international transit area of the airport, you generally do not need a transit visa. However, it’s essential to check with your airline or relevant authorities to confirm if any specific requirements apply to your situation.

In conclusion,

If you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, rejoice! You can freely explore Prague without worrying about obtaining a visa.

However, if you are not from these countries and plan to stay longer than 90 days within any 180-day period or wish to work or study in Prague, make sure to follow the proper procedures for obtaining either a short-stay or long-stay visa. Remember to contact your nearest Czech embassy or consulate for accurate and up-to-date information regarding your specific situation.