Czechia, with its magnificent castles and world-renowned beers, beckons tourists from around the globe. Thanks to the Czech Republic Tourist Visa, international travelers can explore the beauty of this enchanting country. Prague, the capital city, boasts ancient Gothic architecture and is often hailed as one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

What is a Czech Republic Tourist Visa?

The Czech Republic Schengen Tourist Visa, also referred to as the Czech Republic Tourist Visa, grants entry to the country for tourism purposes. This allows you to engage in sightseeing, leisure activities, adventure pursuits, and more within Czechia. The visa is typically issued for a duration of 90 days and remains valid for up to 180 days from the date of issue. It can be issued as a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa. In specific cases, you might receive a visa with Limited Territorial Validity (LTV), limiting your visits to specified Schengen states.

How to Obtain a Czech Tourist Visa?

To secure a Czech tourist visa, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for this category. If you qualify, follow these steps:

1. Complete the Application Form: Fill in your details on the application form. You can either download the form from the Czech Republic embassy’s website, print it, and fill it out manually, or enter the details online and then print it.

2. Book a Visa Appointment: Schedule a visa appointment at one of the Visa Application Centers (VACs) or the Embassy of the Czech Republic. You can do this online or by contacting them via phone or email.

3. Visa Interview: Attend a visa interview with the completed application form, required documents, and payment of fees. Biometric data may be collected during this process. Note that if you’ve submitted biometrics to the Visa Information System (VIS) in the last 5 years, you might not need to resubmit them, and you may not have to submit the application in person.

Ensure that you submit all original documents and, if necessary, have documents translated into Czech. Submission of counterfeit documents or incorrect information can lead to visa rejection.

Eligibility for Czech Republic Tourist Visa

To apply for a Czech Republic tourist visa from India, you must meet these criteria:

• You must be physically present in India when applying for the visa. If you are residing in a foreign country under a residence permit, you can apply at the embassy in that country.
• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended travel date.
• Your primary purpose for visiting must be tourism.
• You must have adequate funds to cover your stay in the country.
• Travel medical insurance coverage is mandatory.
• You should apply for this visa if:
  • Czechia is your sole destination, or
  • Czechia is one of your primary Schengen destinations, meaning you will spend the majority of your time there, or
  • Czechia is your port of entry when visiting all other Schengen destinations.

Documents Required for Czech Tourist Visa

As per the requirements of the Czech Republic tourist visa, you must submit the following documents:

• A valid Indian passport.
• 2 passport-size photographs.
• A covering letter detailing your visit.
• A detailed travel itinerary.
• Confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
• Proof of accommodation.
• Travel medical insurance covering €30,000.
• Proof of occupation.
• Financial documents demonstrating sufficient funds.

Photo Specifications for Czech Republic Tourist Visa

Ensure your photos meet the following specifications:

• Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm.
• Colored photographs.
• The head must occupy the central position.
• Taken within the last 3 months.
• Background: Solid, plain white, or grey.
• 80% face coverage.
• Neutral expression.
• Non-thick framed and prescription glasses are permitted.
• Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons.
• Facial hair is permitted.

Processing Time

The processing time for a Czech tourist permit varies based on factors such as the volume of applications at the embassy, the number of entries for the visa, and any express processing options. Due to these variables, it’s advisable to apply well in advance, preferably at least 15 days before your intended travel date.

Czech Republic Tourist Visa Fees

The total fees for obtaining the visa depend on factors such as the number of entries, biometric charges, service charges at the VAC, and currency exchange rates. Therefore, it’s essential to confirm the exact fee amount when applying.

After Submission

After you’ve paid the fees and submitted your application, the processing begins. If the embassy requires additional verification or documentation, they will notify you. You can collect the approved permit either in person at the VAC or embassy or have it delivered to you for a specific fee.

How to Check Visa Status

While awaiting a response, you can check the status of your application by entering your reference number and name on the VAC’s online portal. Alternatively, you can contact your travel agency or the embassy directly via phone or email. Additionally, you can opt to receive status notifications via SMS.

When You Have the Visa

Once you possess this visa, remember these key points:

• Be aware of the visa’s expiry date and the number of entries allowed. You must not overstay beyond this period.
• Always carry a copy of your passport and other travel documents while in the country.
• While in the tourist category, you cannot engage in any work-related activities.
• Generally, you cannot extend the visa unless unforeseeable circumstances, such as a force majeure or unfavorable situations in your home country, arise.