Disclosure
The visa and entry information provided above reflects the guidelines available at the time of publication. Requirements may change at any point at the discretion of the Czech authorities.
EPA and the Organisers cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies that arise from updates, policy changes or individual circumstances affecting travel eligibility.
Participants are responsible for confirming the most current requirements with official Czech government sources and for managing their travel arrangements well in advance of their trip.
Who needs a visa to enter Prague?
The Cezch Republic is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of many countries, especially EU/Schengen nations, can travel to Prague without a visa, using a valid passport or ID card.
If you hold a passport from a country listed among “visa-required” nations, you must obtain either a short-stay (Schengen) visa or a national visa before travelling.
Application
You must apply for a short-term visa in person at a Visa Application Centre (like VFS Global) or a Czech Embassy/consulate.
The specific requirements depend on your nationality and the reason for your visit, but common documents include:
- a valid passport
- a completed application form
- passport photos
- a travel itinerary
- proof of accommodation
- financial means
- comprehensive medical insurance policy
Your passport (or travel document) should generally:
- Be issued within the last 10 years
- Be valid for at least three months beyond the date you intend to leave the Schengen Area
For visa-exempt nationals visiting Prague (and other Schengen countries) you may still need to show:
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Proof of accommodation, and proof that you have sufficient funds for your stay
If your first point of entry into the Schengen Area is Prague, and you are permitted to enter, ensure that a border officer stamps your passport. Without an entry stamp, you may be considered to have entered irregularly and risk fines or detention.
Processing Time & Validity
Short-stay (Schengen) visas are generally processed within about 15 calendar days. In peak periods or complex cases, processing may take longer.
A Schengen visa allows a stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Czech Republic or other Schengen countries. Long-stay visas require a different application process.
Always check with the official embassy or consulate websites for the latest updates, including any changes to visa policy, document requirements or travel-insurance obligations.