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helping to obtain
TRADE LICENSE
A trade license, also known colloquially as a “ŽIVNO” (taken from the original Czech “živnostenský list”), grants you the ability to work as a self-employed individual or freelancer in various trades as outlined in the Trade Licensing Act. A ŽIVNO is also commonly referred to as an “IČO business” or “OSVČ,” which, in turn, is synonymous with the terms “sole proprietorship,” “sole tradership,” or “entrepreneurship.”
While there are other alternatives to establishing a business in the Czech Republic, obtaining a trade license remains the single-most prevalent choice, particularly for new startups, due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. If you plan to work as an English teacher, translator, or provide IT or marketing services, for instance, a trade license is oftentimes a necessity, as most companies are more willing to hire you on a ŽIVNO or cooperate with you as a freelancing consultant thanks to the reduction in their operating costs.
In order to acquire a ŽIVNO and start operating your business, it’s necessary to obtain a clear criminal record from your country of origin. (This generally does not apply to EU nationals. They do not have to prove a clean criminal record if they’ve been residing in the Czech Republic for more than 6 months – i.e. if they have a lease or employment contract here.)
Possessing professional qualifications is not a mandatory prerequisite for so-called “volná živnost” or “free trade” activities, which encompass over 80 different areas of specialization.
Although you can expect a lot of bureaucracy and piles of paperwork, we’re fully capable of managing the process on your behalf. With a power of attorney, you’ll barely even have to lift a finger (aside from signing the power of attorney yourself) and you won’t need to interact with any civil servants.
Typically speaking, the process of obtaining a trade license can take anywhere from 1 to 3 business days.
Important. We do not issue a trade license or any other official documents (only the Czech authorities can do that), but we help you to obtain them from the Czech authorities.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED:
- A plain copy of your passport (or your EU/EEA national identity card, if applicable) with the words “Souhlasím s pořízením kopie mého cestovního pasu/občanského průkazu” handwritten on it and your signature.
- A consent form signed by your landlord granting you permission to utilize the rental property as your business address (known as a "souhlas s místem podnikání"). If your landlord is unwilling to sign this form, we are happy to offer you an alternative option of a virtual business address. **Note for homeowners: If you own the property and intend to use it as your business address, the aforementioned consent form is not necessary. However, if you co-own the property with others, you will still require the consent of EACH co-owner, even if they are your family members.
- Your clean criminal record, accompanied by an APOSTILLE or SUPERLEGALIZATION SEAL (depending on your country of origin).
- A power of attorney that grants us the authority to represent you throughout the process. We will provide this document for your convenience.
WHAT OUR SERVICE INCLUDES:
- We will guide you through the entire process and provide step-by-step instructions, ensuring a smooth experience.
- We will prepare a power of attorney granting us the authority to gather and submit all the necessary documents to the Trade Office on your behalf.
- We will maintain open lines of communication with the Trade Office, addressing any issues that may arise and ensuring a timely resolution.
- If required, we can arrange sworn translations and notarized copies for documents such as your criminal record (please note that translation and notary fees are not included).
- As part of our service, we will help you register with the local tax office, social security office, and public health insurance. If you are eligible to enter the public healthcare system, we will guide you through the whole process. Otherwise, we will assist in arranging the appropriate health insurance as stipulated by law.
- We will communicate with your landlord to ensure the correct completion of the consent form, allowing you to use their property as your business address.
- If necessary, we will handle communication with other individuals or entities relevant to your application.
- Throughout the entire process, we will provide comprehensive consultancy, offering guidance and support at every step of the way.
