The Czech government has approved a bill tightening entry and residence rules for foreigners, including citizens of EU member states such as Poland. The new law, passed on March 16, is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2029, and introduces a broad set of changes aimed at increasing control over migration and modernizing administration.
One of the key elements of the reform is stricter enforcement of the obligation to register residence for EU citizens staying in the Czech Republic for more than 90 days. Until now, this requirement was often ignored. The new regulations will also introduce full digitalization of contacts between foreigners and public administration. From 2029, every foreigner will receive an individual administrative account, which will become the primary tool for communication with offices, enabling them to submit residence applications and receive official correspondence.
Digital overhaul of administrative procedures
The draft law also tightens the grounds for revoking residence permits. The new rules will apply not only to individuals convicted of crimes but also to foreigners deemed by the authorities to pose a threat to state security or public order. This represents a significant shift from the current system, where such measures were less clearly defined.
According to data from the Czech Ministry of the Interior, at the end of last year there were 1,131,197 migrants in the country – an increase of over 37,000 people, or 3.4%, compared to the previous year. At the same time, experts estimate that up to 20% of foreigners may remain outside official registers.
Tougher rules for overstayers and security threats
– The reform is part of a broader strategy to modernize administration and respond to demographic changes, while also aligning with the government’s pledge to tighten control over migration processes – said analysts from the Institute of Central Europe. They also stressed that the adopted law does not close the process of change, as Czech authorities are preparing further solutions that will modify the rules of stay for foreigners even more in the future.
The new regulations will therefore have a direct impact on Poles living or planning to work in the Czech Republic. The obligation to register after 90 days, previously often overlooked, will now be strictly enforced. The digital account system will require familiarity with online administration, and the risk of losing the right to stay for security reasons may increase uncertainty for some individuals.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. Shutterstock/NGCHIYUI
