Residence for a family member of an EU citizen
The separate, easier route for a non-EU spouse, partner, child or dependent parent of an EU/EEA citizen.
What this actually is
If you are not an EU citizen but a close family member of one who lives here, you do not follow the ordinary third-country route. You apply for a temporary residence permit as a family member (pobytová karta rodinného příslušníka občana EU — literally 'residence card of a family member of an EU citizen'), which is decided under free-movement rules rather than immigration quotas.
Who it applies to
Non-EU spouses, registered partners, children under 21 (or dependent), and dependent parents of an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen exercising residence rights in Czechia.
When it's required
Apply within three months of arrival, in Czechia, at a Ministry of the Interior office.
Step by step
- 1
Check the relationship qualifies
Spouse, registered partner, child, or dependent direct relative. Unregistered partners follow a discretionary route with a weaker entitlement.
- 2
Book an appointment
Applications are filed in person at the Ministry of the Interior office for your area.
- 3
Prove the EU citizen's residence here
Their registration certificate, employment contract or proof of study is normally requested.
- 4
Submit the application and give biometrics
You are given a confirmation of the filed application, which you can use while the decision is pending.
- 5
Collect the residence card
The law sets a decision deadline; in practice waits vary by office workload.
Documents to bring
- Valid travel document
- Proof of family relationshipMarriage or birth certificate, usually with apostille and Czech translation
- Proof that the EU family member resides in Czechia
- Proof of accommodation
- Photographs
Who decides
Ministry of the Interior — Department for Asylum and Migration Policy
Related
Official information
- Ministry of the Interior of the Czech RepublicOfficial source
- Information Portal for Foreigners (MV ČR)Official source
- Czech public administration portal (gov.cz)Official source
Last checked: 10 September 2026
Family-member cases turn on individual facts. Confirm your document list with the Ministry of the Interior before your appointment.