Get Your Czech Republic Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Individuals born in the Czech Republic to at least one Czech citizen automatically acquire Czech citizenship.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to at least one Czech citizen parent are typically eligible for citizenship by descent.
- By Marriage: Marriage to a Czech citizen does not automatically grant citizenship, but may shorten the required residency period for naturalization.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals may apply for citizenship after 5 years of permanent residence and Czech language proficiency.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Allowed: Since 2014, the Czech Republic allows dual citizenship for both new applicants and those reclaiming it through descent.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm your eligibility through descent, residency, or marriage-related naturalization.
- Submit your application to the Ministry of the Interior or a Czech consulate abroad.
- Provide supporting documents including birth certificates, proof of residence, and language proficiency (if required).
- Attend an interview or complete a written knowledge test (for naturalization).
- Receive your citizenship decision and certificate.
Benefits of Czech Citizenship
- Live and work anywhere in the European Union
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to 180+ countries
- Access to Czech healthcare, education, and public benefits
- Dual citizenship is fully recognized
Frequently asked questions.
Does the Czech Republic allow dual citizenship?
Yes. As of January 1, 2014, Czech citizens may hold another nationality without losing their Czech citizenship. Applicants may also retain their original citizenship when naturalizing.
Can I claim citizenship through my Czech parent or grandparent?
If your parent is a Czech citizen, you may claim citizenship by descent. In some historical cases, individuals with Czech or Czechoslovak ancestry may reclaim citizenship — check specific heritage rules with authorities.
Can I gain citizenship through marriage?
Marriage to a Czech citizen does not automatically grant citizenship, but may reduce the permanent residence period required for naturalization to 2–3 years.
How long do I need to live in the Czech Republic to naturalize?
Typically, 5 years of permanent residency is required, plus knowledge of the Czech language and integration into society.
Is there a language requirement?
Yes. Naturalization applicants must pass a Czech language exam and sometimes a test on civic knowledge.
Do I have to give up my current citizenship?
No. The Czech Republic allows dual citizenship. You do not need to renounce your current nationality to become Czech.
Do I have to pay taxes in the Czech Republic as a dual citizen?
Only if you are a resident or earn income in the Czech Republic. Non-resident dual citizens are generally not subject to Czech taxes.