Renewing or replacing a residence card
Expired, lost, stolen or out-of-date biometric cards, and the reporting duties attached to each.
What this actually is
The biometric card is the document, not the right — it expires on its own schedule and must be replaced after a change of name, sex, marital status or after damage or loss. Loss or theft must be reported promptly, and travelling without a valid card causes problems at the border even when your residence is unaffected.
Who it applies to
Third-country nationals holding a biometric residence card, including permanent residents.
When it's required
Report loss, theft or damage within three working days; apply for a replacement before the card expires.
Step by step
- 1
Report a lost or stolen card
Report to the Ministry of the Interior, and to the police if it was stolen.
- 2
Book a replacement appointment
Replacement requires attendance in person for biometrics.
- 3
Bring proof of the change
Marriage certificate, new passport or similar, depending on the reason.
- 4
Collect the new card
Collection is in person; keep the confirmation slip in the meantime.
Documents to bring
- Passport
- Police reportIf the card was stolen
- Documents proving the changeWhere the reason is a change of name or status
- 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
This is a plain-English explanation, not legal advice. Requirements change and individual cases differ — confirm with the responsible authority before acting. Information last checked 10 September 2026.