The Czech Republic is extending protection for Ukrainian refugees facing Russian aggression while introducing a special long-term residence permit for them. This is made possible by the so-called Lex Ukraine, recently passed by the upper chamber of the Czech Parliament. What does this mean for Ukrainian citizens living in the Czech Republic? We explain.
What you will learn in this article:
- Conditions and benefits of the special long-term residence permit
- How the temporary protection regime will function now
Special Long-Term Residence as a Path to the Future in the Czech Republic
Lex Ukraine is an amendment to a 2022 law that introduced specific measures in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. One of the key updates in this legislation is the possibility of obtaining a special long-term residence permit. Ukrainian citizens who have been living in the Czech Republic for more than two years under temporary protection can apply for it. The transition from temporary protection to long-term residence will always be made for entire families.”The long-term residence permit is intended only for those Ukrainian refugees who want to live in our country permanently, do not receive welfare benefits, and are economically self-sufficient. This will allow them to better plan their future and integrate further into Czech society. Of course, the temporary protection regime will continue to be available for Ukrainian refugees,” said Interior Minister Vít Rakušan.The registration process for long-term residence is similar to the renewal of temporary protection, meaning it can be done online.
What are the main requirements for obtaining a special long-term residence permit?
- Valid travel documents
- No criminal record
- Economic self-sufficiency
- Independence from welfare benefits
- No outstanding debts for social and health insurance
- Secured accommodation
- Compliance with school attendance for children
What are the main benefits of the special long-term residence permit?
- Free access to the labor market
- Standard immigration status under the Foreigners’ Residence Act, with corresponding rights and obligations
- Long-term residence granted for five years (instead of the usual two years)
- Possibility of obtaining permanent residence in the Czech Republic in the future
Temporary Protection? The EU and Czech Republic Are Extending It
The temporary protection regime for Ukrainian refugees in the Czech Republic remains in effect, currently until the end of March. However, it is already clear that it will be extended for another year, thanks to a decision by the European Union made last year.
Those who are not yet eligible for a special long-term residence permit do not need to worry about losing their protection. “Under temporary protection, people have access to public health insurance, among other things. However, for long-term residence, Ukrainian citizens must arrange private health insurance that covers comprehensive medical care, as required by law. Insurance companies often offer this insurance in both standard and premium versions, both of which meet all legal requirements,” explains Mariana Pitráková from Fabrika ads, which operates the websites InfoCizinci.cz and YesPojisteni.cz.
You can compare specific foreigner insurance offers in our easy-to-use online calculator. We also welcome you to visit our YesPojisteni.cz office in Prague’s Máj.
