Czechia releases July quotas for its ‘Qualified Employee’ fast-track work-visa scheme
EU signals further delay to ETIAS launch, extending uncertainty for travellers to Czechia
New Foreigners Act edges closer as Czech deputies schedule third reading
Latest News
Runway repair at Prague’s Václav Havel Airport prompts rerouting – travellers advised to allow extra time
Prague Airport closed its main 06/24 runway on 9 July for six weeks of maintenance, shifting all traffic to runway 12/30. Passengers can expect longer taxi times and occasional delays; airlines advise arriving at the terminal at least 30 minutes earlier than usual.
Austria extends spot border checks with Czech Republic until 15 September 2026
Austria’s Foreign Ministry states that random border controls on roads and rail links with Czechia are now authorised until 15 September 2026. The extension means drivers and rail passengers should continue to carry passports and allow for potential delays at peak times.
EU Rejects Calls to Pause New EES Biometric Checks Despite Summer Queues
Brussels says the new biometric Entry/Exit System will remain active this summer, rejecting airline demands for a pause. While only about 20 of 1,500 crossings are labelled “difficult,” Prague-based travellers are already facing longer queues at major hub airports. Czech employers should advise non-EU visitors to allow extra time and monitor 90/180-day limits closely.
Czech Industry Ministry Releases Fresh Quotas in ‘Qualified Employee’ Work-Permit Scheme
The Ministry of Industry and Trade opened fresh application slots under its fast-track Qualified Employee Programme at 09:00 on 8 July, adding 1,744 visa codes for nine source countries. Czech employers facing severe labour shortages now have a brief chance to secure work-permit appointments for skilled foreign hires.
Major Prague Bridge Repair to Disrupt Road and Tram Links From 11 July
Prague’s Hlávkův Bridge will close to trams and restrict car traffic toward Holešovice from 11 July to 31 August while crews reinforce corroded concrete slabs. Business travellers should expect detours, longer airport transfers and no tram replacement service during the seven-week project.