Graduate Job Search and Starting a Business in Czechia in 2026

Third-country nationals who completed a Czech university-accredited study programme, and qualifying researchers who completed their research, can use the long-term residence permit for seeking employment or starting a business.

The permit is valid for up to 9 months and cannot be extended.

A graduate of a Czech university-accredited programme who holds this permit has free access to the labour market and may work, seek employment, do business or start a business during the permit's validity.

Holders of this graduate/research transition permit can also apply for business long-term residence without having to satisfy the ordinary five-year prior-residence condition that can apply to some other status changes.

Official guidance: Graduate Job Search and Starting a Business.

Related: Czechia immigration hub, methodology, and the legal disclaimer.

Official and supporting sources

Related routes in Czechia