SCHENGEN VISAS

Schengen visa applications are decided on by consulates within 15 calendar days after accepting the application. In practice, most applications can be processed earlier. 

In individual cases, processing can be extended to up to 45 days, mainly when further examination, consultation or verification is needed.

The consulate notifies the applicant in such a case.

Processing time can also be shorter based on visa facilitation agreements.

LONG-TERM VISAS AND RESIDENCE PERMITS

Long-term visa and residence permit applications are decided on by the Ministry of the Interior within the legal period based on the visa type and purpose of stay.

Information on application status is available on the Ministry of the Interior website.

Please do not contact the Visa Department of the MFA / consulates with inquiries about application status during the examination period. The Visa Department does not process applications and has no information on them. 

Consulates contact applicants as soon as the decision is made.

 

Legal sources:

○ Regulation (EC) No 810/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 July 2009 establishing a Community Code on Visas (Visa Code) – mainly Article 23

○ Act No 326/1999 Coll., on Residence of Foreign Nationals in the Czech Republic and Amending Certain Acts (available in Czech) – mainly § 169t

Useful links:

○ European Commission - Migration and Home Affairs – Applying for a Schengen Visa

○ Ministry of the Interior – Time Limits