Frequently asked questions
Common questions answered
Czech law explained in plain English. Everything foreigners, expats and international clients most commonly ask before working with us.
Working with PEERS
Can I consult a Czech lawyer in English?
Yes. PEERS Czechia provides English-language legal support for foreigners, expats and international businesses dealing with Czech law. All communication, documents and legal advice is delivered in English.
Do I need to come to Prague?
Many matters can begin and finish entirely remotely — by email, video call or phone. Some procedures may require original documents, notarised signatures or personal attendance at a Czech authority. We will explain at the outset what is possible remotely and what may require your physical presence.
Learn how we workCan PEERS represent me before Czech authorities or courts?
Yes. Our attorneys are admitted to the Czech Bar Association (ČAK) and can represent clients before Czech administrative authorities, immigration offices, and courts. Remote representation by power of attorney is possible in many cases.
How quickly can you take on a new matter?
For standard matters we typically review your enquiry and respond within one business day. Urgent matters — particularly criminal matters — receive priority attention. Contact us and mark your enquiry as urgent.
Do you help both individuals and companies?
Yes. PEERS Czechia assists foreign individuals, expats, families, entrepreneurs, small and medium businesses, and international corporations. Our practice areas cover both personal legal matters (immigration, family, criminal) and business law (company setup, contracts, employment, disputes).
Which languages does the team speak?
The PEERS Czechia team works in Czech, English, French, Polish and Slovakian. All client-facing communication is in English. Documents in other languages can be handled by the relevant team member.
Documents & communication
Can I send documents in English?
Yes. We work in English and receive documents in English or Czech. If the matter requires certified Czech translations for court or authority purposes, we coordinate this for you.
Can you review Czech documents before I sign them?
Yes. We regularly review Czech-language contracts, employment documents, real estate contracts, lease agreements and official letters for foreign clients. We explain the key terms, risks and your obligations in clear English.
Contracts & commercial lawWhat formats do you accept for document submission?
We accept PDF, Word documents and scanned images via email. For large volumes of documents, we can arrange a secure sharing link. Certified or notarised originals may be required for some official procedures — we will let you know in advance.
Is our communication confidential?
Yes. All communications with PEERS Czechia attorneys are covered by attorney-client privilege and professional secrecy obligations under Czech law and the Czech Bar Association rules. We do not share your information with third parties without your consent.
Fees & payments
How do I get a fee estimate?
After you describe your situation, we review the matter and propose a fee model — hourly rate, fixed fee or phase-based budget — depending on the complexity and scope. The initial review is non-binding and at no charge.
See our fees pageDo you charge for the initial review?
The initial review of your enquiry is at no charge. A fee is only agreed once we confirm we can accept the matter and you decide to proceed.
Is an attorney-client relationship created when I contact you?
No. An attorney-client relationship is established only after PEERS confirms in writing that it can accept your matter and you agree to the terms of engagement. Simply sending an enquiry does not create any legal relationship.
What currency do you invoice in?
Invoices are issued in Czech Crowns (CZK) by default. EUR invoicing can be arranged for international clients.
Do you charge VAT?
PEERS advokátní kancelář, s.r.o. is VAT-registered in the Czech Republic. Czech VAT (currently 21%) applies to services provided to Czech-based clients. For clients outside the Czech Republic, the reverse-charge mechanism may apply.
Immigration & visas
I need a residence permit in Czech Republic — can you help?
Yes. We assist with long-term visas, Employee Cards, Blue Cards, permanent residence permits, and family reunification. We advise on eligibility, prepare documents, liaise with the Ministry of Interior, and represent clients if an application is refused.
Immigration servicesDo EU citizens need a permit to live in Czech Republic?
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can live and work in Czech Republic without a visa or permit. However, stays over 30 days should generally be registered with the local foreign police, and those staying longer term may wish to register for official residency to access services.
My visa application was refused — what can I do?
You generally have the right to appeal or request a review. Time limits are strict. Contact us as soon as you receive the refusal — we can advise on grounds for appeal and the realistic prospects of success.
Can my family members join me in Czech Republic?
In most cases, spouses, minor children and sometimes dependent parents of residence permit holders can obtain a family reunification permit. The conditions depend on the primary permit holder's status.
Criminal matters
What should I do if I am arrested or questioned by police in Czechia?
Do not make statements or sign any documents before speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to legal representation from the first moment of police contact. Ask for an interpreter if needed. Contact PEERS Czechia as soon as possible — criminal matters are prioritised.
Criminal defenceCan you help if I am accused of a crime as a tourist or short-term visitor?
Yes. We can advise and represent you regardless of how long you have been in Czech Republic. We understand the particular stress of facing criminal proceedings far from home and work to achieve the best possible outcome as efficiently as possible.
Do you handle traffic offences and administrative fines?
Yes. Traffic offences, speeding fines, customs matters and administrative penalties are all areas where legal advice can make a material difference to the outcome.
Business & company setup
How do I set up a company in Czech Republic as a foreigner?
The most common structure for foreigners is an s.r.o. (limited liability company). We handle the entire registration process — from drafting the founding documents to registration in the Commercial Register and obtaining the relevant permits.
Business & company setupCan I get a trade licence (živnostenský list) as a non-Czech citizen?
Yes. EU citizens and most non-EU citizens can obtain a trade licence in Czech Republic, though the process varies by nationality. We advise on eligibility and handle the application.
Do I need a Czech address for my company?
A registered address in Czech Republic is required for company registration. We can assist with arranging a registered address and explain the practical requirements.
Family & inheritance
Can you handle divorce proceedings in Czech Republic?
Yes. We advise on divorce, separation, division of joint property, child custody and maintenance — including cross-border situations where one spouse lives outside Czech Republic.
Family & inheritanceMy relative died in Czech Republic — how is their estate handled?
Czech inheritance proceedings are handled by a notary appointed by the court. We advise foreign heirs on their rights, represent them in the proceedings, and assist with cross-border inheritance involving assets in multiple countries.
I need a Czech prenuptial agreement — is that possible?
Yes. Czech law allows spouses or future spouses to modify the statutory property regime by notarial agreement. We advise on the options and coordinate the notarial appointment.
Still have a question?
If you did not find the answer here, describe your situation and we will get back to you within one business day.
Ask us directly