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Nationals

The Czech Republic possesses a developed, high-income economy. It is one of the most stable and prosperous European countries, with the highest human development index in Central and Eastern Europe. Czech Republic’s job market is very competitive and many job seekers are searching for career opportunities in the region. National job seekers are given priority though, because of their ability to speak and write Czech. In addition to Czech, proficiency in English and German is an additional benefit that enhances job seekers’ employability.

In order to maximize your chances of landing a job, you should register with online recruitment agencies, make full use of the print media i.e. newspapers and trade journals, and actively network. When applying for a job, it is crucial that your CV and cover letter emphasize on your relevant skills, achievements, qualifications and experiences in a well-structured and informative manner. Employers will expect a high level of commitment from job seekers throughout the recruitment process, so it is prudent to prepare thoroughly for the interview.

Foreign Nationals

The Czech Republic is a member of the European Union and offers many job opportunities to European citizens within its territory. As stipulated by the free movement of workers treaty, EU and EEA nationals are entitled to live and work in the Czech Republic without a work permit. Nevertheless, non EU/EEA nationals wishing to be employed in the country need to obtain an employment permit, as well as a resident permit in order to be able to work there. The employment permit application is usually submitted by the Czech employer.

Job seekers who are fluent in English and German have a competitive advantage over those who do not. However, speaking Czech is still a key requirement of Czech employers. Skilled job seekers are advised to seek career opportunities in the construction and engineering industries, as the rapid growth of the secondary sector has led to a shortage of skilled and specialized manual workers. Another industry sector that offers many work opportunities is tourism, and this is a direct result of growth experienced in hospitality and tourism sectors recently.

Work Permit

The Czech Republic joined the European Union in 2004 and as such, enforces the free movement of workers treaty which permits all EU and EEA nationals to reside and take up employment in the country without the need of a work permit. The only requirement to satisfy as an EU or EEA employee in the Czech Republic is to register with the department of foreign police after 90 days of residency in the country. Foreign nationals (non-EU/EEA nationals) do not benefit from the same immigration rights however.

Non-EU nationals are subject to strict protocol which must be satisfied in order to obtain a Czech Republic work permit. Employers wishing to hire a foreign national must meet certain prerequisites – these conditions are stipulated in the Law on Employment. One of the main requirements is to demonstrate that no local or EU national was appropriately skilled to fulfill the position. Provided the employee and employer meet all standards, a work permit can be sought from the Labour Authority in the territory where the job is located.

Czech Republic Business Etiquette

Moving to the Czech Republic for employment can be a daunting experience if you are not familiar with the country’s business etiquette and customs. To ensure your integration into the Czech Republic workforce is an easy transition, it is advised to research the appropriate ways to act in business. Some basic tips when meeting and greeting individuals in the country include shaking hands and providing direct eye contact. Remain standing until you are invited to be seated by the host/employer and ensure you are on time for all meetings.

Workplace environments are based on a hierarchical structure whereby decision making is conducting by top level management. Communications between business professionals is considered to be formal whilst also indirect to avoid offending the other person at all costs. Czech businesspeople tend to be non-confrontational so it is important not to argue or raise your voice. The appropriate attire in the workplace is business suits for men, and dress or pant suits for women. It is important to look professional as well as act in a professional capacity.

Economy

Czech Republic is the first former member of the Comecon to achieve the status of a developed country. It is one of the most stable and prosperous countries with the highest human development index in Central and Eastern Europe and ranked as a nation of “Very High Human Development”. It boasts a high-income economy with a GDP per capita of 80% of the EU average. Growth has been led by exports to the EU and foreign investment. The country is part of the Schengen Area and it is a member of the World Trade Organization.

The auto industry is the largest industry, accounting for nearly 24% of Czech manufacturing. The main industries are heavy and general machine-building, metallurgy, chemical production, electronics, glass and armaments. 3.1% of the highly-skilled Czech labor force is occupied in agriculture, 38.6% in industry and 58.3% in services. The country exports machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, raw materials and fuel to Germany, Slovakia, Poland, France, UK, Austria and Italy.

About the Czech Republic

Czech Republic is a member of the European Union, and as such, has become a jurisdiction of choice for many international job seekers and tourists alike. The country has a highly developed infrastructure and boasts a strong political and economic climate. The official language is Czech with over 94% of the population able to speak it; however, de facto second languages include English and German which are widely spoken, particularly in business. The country’s population is 10,177,300 (2012 est.) and the main ethnic groups are Czech, Moravian and Slovak.

Bordering Germany, Poland, Slovakia and Austria, the Czech Republic is positioned favorable for European trade routes, resulting in many business start-ups. The cost of living is generally lower than other European countries, which means that employees on relatively basic salaries are able to maintain a higher than average standard of living. Prague is frequented by tourists from across the globe, and with the recent growth in the tourism industry, the country is capitalizing on their appeal to holidaymakers worldwide to help drive the economy forward.