Simplified Path to Getting Czech Citizenship for Young Foreigners
Did you grow up in the Czech Republic, study here, and call it your home – yet you're still not a Czech citizen?
The Czech Citizenship Act has a special rule for people like you. It lets you get citizenship in a simpler way under Section 35 of the Act. It's quick and easy. What's more: when you apply for Czech citizenship by declaration (unlike by naturalization – the standard granting process), you have a legal right to it.
This might apply to you if:
- You are between 18 and 21 years old (but haven't turned 21 yet).
- You have permanent residence permit in the Czech Republic
- You arrived in the Czech Republic no later than your 11th birthday and have been legally living here for at least two-thirds of that time.
If you meet these conditions, you can get Czech citizenship through a simplified process handled by your local registry office (not the Ministry of the Interior). There's no need to prove your Czech language skills, show your family income, provide proof of no debts, or submit other detailed documents usually required in the standard citizenship granting process (by naturalization) etc. This option is perfect for young adults who have been connected to the Czech Republic since childhood. It's a lifelong investment.
How can EXPATLEGAL help you?
Our office has years of experience in immigration law, with a special focus on obtaining Czech citizenship. Our attorneys will:
- Check if you meet all the legal requirements
- Prepare your full application
- Go with you in person to submit the declaration and represent you throughout the process
- Handle all the paperwork after you become a citizen – for example, helping you apply for your ID card and passport, pick them up, and notify the relevant authorities
- And finally, make sure everything runs smoothly without unnecessary delays
Getting Czech citizenship can be a natural next step to building a secure life in the country you already call home.
FAQ:
1️⃣ Do I need permanent residence, or is long-term residence enough?
Long-term residence is not enough. One of the requirements for obtaining citizenship by declaration under Section 35 is permanent residence. Don't have it yet? We'll help you apply.
2️⃣ Do I have to take a Czech language test?
No. In this process, you don't need to prove knowledge of the Czech language or Czech culture – no tests, no extra stress.
3️⃣ Do I have to attend a Czech school?
No. You can study at an international school – what matters is that you live and grow up in the Czech Republic.
4️⃣ Do I need to be born in the Czech Republic to qualify?
No. Being born in the Czech Republic is not required. What counts is the length and legality of your stay.
5️⃣ Will the authorities ask for my parents' income?
No. Income is not checked in this process. Everything is simplified.
6️⃣ Do I need to prove health insurance?
No. This is not required either.
7️⃣ Can I get Czech citizenship if I'm currently studying abroad but still have permanent residence in the Czech Republic?
Yes, as long as you meet the required length of legal stay in the Czech Republic.
8️⃣ I've had bad experiences with the Ministry of the Interior's immigration department – I won't be able to handle it.
This process is handled by the local registry office, not the Ministry of the Interior. We'll represent you and manage all communication on your behalf.
9️⃣ How long does the whole process take?
It is faster than you think. If you meet all the conditions, you can become a Czech citizen in about 2 months from submitting the declaration.
🔟 Do I have to give up my original citizenship?
No. Czech law does not require it. You can keep your original citizenship and become a Czech citizen at the same time – unless your home country's laws say otherwise.
❓ Still have questions or not sure if you qualify?
📞 Contact us. During a quick consultation, we'll figure out where you stand and find the simplest path to your Czech citizenship together