Czech citizenship

1. Child acquires citizenship automatically if born to Czech nationals.
2. Child born to stateless persons (apatrides) can acquire citizenship if either parent is eligible to reside in Czech Republic for more than 3 months.
3. Child recognized by Czech national (father) has the right for the citizenship.
4. Children adopted by Czech nationals can acquire citizenship automatically.
5. Child under 3 years of age, who was found in the territory of Czech Republic without the identification of parents within a 6-month period, has the right for Czech citizenship.

Spouse or partner of Czech national, who demonstrated that the marriage is not fictitious, can apply for citizenship after 5-year period (3-year legal residence on the basis of residence permit and 2-year legal residence on the basis of permanent residence).

Foreign national studying at a university, operating a business or working in the territory of Czech Republic, can acquire citizenship on the basis of naturalization. For this it is required to reside in the country for the period of 10 years (3 years for EU citizens).

Naturalization applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Pass the test on the knowledge of country’s culture and basic laws (usually consists of 30 questions);
2. Pass the Czech language proficiency test for B2 level in one of accredited language schools;
3. Document confirming the absence of criminal record and criminal prosecution in the territory of Czech republic and abroad;
4. Availability of permanent and lawful income in the territory of Czech Republic without receiving social benefits from the State;
5. Lack of arrears to the Czech state (tax, utility, medical, etc.).

• Foreign national whose life or health is threatened in homeland or who is targeted by political, religious or other reasons, can seek asylum in the Czech Republic.

• The government reconsiders the situation in alien’s homeland after 6-year period of legal residence, and in case the situation has not changed and decides on whether to repatriate an alien or issue him the permanent residence status.

Foreign nationals who have achieved remarkable results in the field of sports, science, culture, etc. and who have made indelible contributions to the Czech society are eligible for Czech citizenship through a simplified procedure. Applications for citizenship acquiring according to this program is considered by the President of the country.

Documents for citizenship application:

1. Birth certificate;
2. Marriage certificate on marriage to a Czech national (if any);
3. Police clearance certificate (for the last 6 months);
4. Autobiography of the applicant in Czech;
5. Certificates on the passing of tests of Czech language proficiency, history, culture and laws of Czech Republic.
6. Certificate proving the lack of arrears to the Czech state (valid within 1 month);
7. Document confirming permanent and lawful income in the territory of Czech Republic;
8. Higher education diploma (if any);
9. Employment contract (if any).