How much does a Trade Licence cost?

Registration costs 1,000 CZK. This is a one-time fee. There are no annual fees for the licence itself, but you must pay health and social insurance contributions.

Can I freelance in Czech Republic with an Employee Card?

Not directly. The Employee Card is for employment only. You would need to also register a Trade Licence and potentially change your residence permit type, or apply for a Business visa.

What is the flat-rate tax (paušální daň)?

A simplified tax regime for sole traders earning under 2M CZK/year. You pay a fixed monthly amount (7,498 CZK in 2026) that covers income tax, social insurance, and health insurance. No tax return needed.

Czech Trade Licence (Živnostenský list) 2026

Czech Trade Licence (Živnostenský list): Complete Guide 2026

10 min read4 sectionsUpdated 2026-03-15

The Trade Licence (živnostenský list) lets you legally freelance or run a business in the Czech Republic. This guide covers all licence types, requirements, and costs.

Guide Contents

A Trade Licence authorizes you to conduct business activities in the Czech Republic as a self-employed person (OSVČ — osoba samostatně výdělečně činná).

Key facts:

Fee: 1,000 CZK (registration)

Processing: Same day to 5 business days

Legal basis: Trade Licensing Act No. 455/1991 Coll.

Where to apply: Trade Licensing Office (Živnostenský úřad)

Validity: Indefinite (while you maintain the licence)

Three types of trade licences:

Free trades (volné živnosti) — No special qualifications needed (IT, consulting, marketing, etc.) — 80+ activities in one licence

Regulated trades (vázané živnosti) — Require specific education/certification

Craft trades (řemeslné živnosti) — Require apprenticeship or relevant education

Frequently Asked Questions

3 common questions answered

Ready to start your application?

Permit.cz turns this guide into an interactive checklist with AI support, deadline tracking, and document generator.

Czech Trade Licence (Živnostenský list): Complete Guide 2026

Guide Contents

What is a Trade Licence (živnostenský list)?

For non-EU nationals: Business residence permit

How to register a trade licence

Taxes and obligations for OSVČ

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Trade Licence cost?

Can I freelance in Czech Republic with an Employee Card?

What is the flat-rate tax (paušální daň)?

Ready to start your application?

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