Živnost pro cizince v ČR: návod pro EU i třetí země
Jak si jako cizinec založit živnost v Česku. Rozdíl mezi občany EU a třetími zeměmi, pobyt za účelem podnikání...
Foreigners and OSVČ
Trade Licence for Foreigners in the Czech Republic
A foreigner can also run a business as a self-employed person (OSVČ) in the Czech Republic. The procedure differs mainly depending on where you are from — choose your situation.
EU = same as Czechs
third countries = residence permit on top
JRF — the same form
Choose your situation
Citizen of the EU / EEA / Switzerland
the simplest path
Treated on a par with Czech citizens — you only need to prove good standing (no criminal record).
Procedure for the EUCitizen of a third country
residence permit + extra documents
You need a residence permit that entitles you to run a business.
Procedure for third countriesUkrainians under temporary protection
special regime
Temporary protection allows you to run a business — with a few specifics.
Procedure for UkrainiansWhat applies to all foreigners
Regardless of your origin, you must meet the same general conditions as Czech citizens — full legal capacity and good standing (no criminal record) — and for craft trades, regulated trades and permit (concession) trades you must prove professional qualification. You submit the notification on the same Single Registration Form (JRF). The main differences lie in how you prove your good standing and whether you need a residence permit.
Good standing for foreigners
Foreigners prove their good standing with an extract from the criminal records of their home country (for third countries, with an official translation into Czech). If that country does not issue such an extract, it is replaced by a sworn declaration.
Which type of trade licence to choose?
The same four groups as for Czech citizens. The most common is the unqualified trade (živnost volná), where you need no education or qualifications.
Where to submit the trade notification
The notification can be accepted by any municipal trade licensing office (živnostenský úřad) in the Czech Republic. Find the nearest one.
Frequently asked questions from foreigners
Can a foreigner run a business on a trade licence in the Czech Republic?
Yes. Citizens of the EU/EEA and Switzerland are treated on a par with Czech citizens. Citizens of third countries need a residence permit that entitles them to run a business.
How does a foreigner prove good standing?
With an extract from the criminal records of their home country. For third countries an official translation into Czech is required; if the country does not issue such an extract, it is replaced by a sworn declaration.
Does an EU citizen need a residence permit for a trade licence?
Not for the notification of the trade itself — the procedure is essentially the same as for a Czech citizen. However, a stay of more than 3 months is registered with the foreign police / OAMP.
Can Ukrainians under temporary protection run a business?
Yes, holders of temporary protection may run a business in the Czech Republic. We recommend verifying the current conditions, as the temporary protection regime is subject to periodic revision.
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General guide to setting up a trade licence
You will find the complete procedure (online and in person), fees and post-registration obligations in the main guide.