Czech Qualified Employee Programme Quota 2026: Trade Ministry Adds 2,000 New Slots as May Quota Opens – First‑Come, First‑Served

Prague, May 12, 2026 — The Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade (MPO) has released an additional 2,000 registration codes for the Qualified Employee Programme, providing welcome relief to employers struggling with persistent labour shortages.

The new slots became available on May 11, 2026, at 09:00 via the official online system. This injection brings the total number of codes issued in 2026 to 11,000 — approximately 7% higher than the same period last year.

Czech Qualified Employee Programme Quota 2026: Trade Ministry adds 2,000 new slots – act now.

About the Qualified Employee Programme

The Qualified Employee Programme is one of Czechia’s flagship economic migration initiatives. It enables employers to recruit skilled non-EU workers for mid-level qualified positions more quickly than through standard Employee Card procedures. Participants benefit from simplified processing, priority handling at embassies, and faster overall timelines for work and residence permits.

The programme targets occupations facing shortages in sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, logistics, IT support, technical services, and healthcare assistance roles.

Why the Extra Quota?

Czechia continues to experience one of the tightest labour markets in the European Union, driven by low unemployment, an aging population, and strong economic growth. Despite record numbers of foreigners already residing in the country, many industries report ongoing difficulties filling skilled positions with local or EU workers.

By expanding the quota mid-month, the Ministry aims to help businesses maintain momentum and avoid production bottlenecks, particularly in export-oriented manufacturing and key service sectors.

Key Practical Details for Employers

• Registration codes are issued on a first-come, first-served basis through the MPO’s dedicated portal.

• Each code allows an employer to sponsor a specific foreign worker under the programme.

• Applications must still meet standard requirements, including minimum salary thresholds, qualification verification, and labour market tests where applicable.

• Employers are encouraged to act promptly, as quotas in previous years have frequently been exhausted ahead of schedule.

This latest addition reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to balancing labour market needs with controlled economic migration, while prioritising skilled and qualified workers over low-skilled inflows.

Broader Context

The move comes shortly after other recent reforms, including the streamlined employee registration system introduced in April 2026 and adjustments to EU Blue Card salary thresholds. Together, these steps demonstrate Czechia’s dual focus on attracting talent while modernising administrative processes.

Businesses planning to hire non-EU workers in the coming months are advised to check quota availability regularly and prepare documentation in advance to avoid delays.

For the latest updates, detailed guides, and compliance advice on Czech work visas, Employee Cards, Qualified Employee Programme, and other residence permits, visit: visasupdate.com/blog/categories/czech-republic