CzechInvest has succeeded in its proposal to extend the Key and Scientific Personnel programme to spin-offs start-up companies with a direct equity link to research organisations. These companies can now benefit from the accelerated visa process under the Key and Scientific Personnel programme.
The Czech Republic has taken another step towards supporting the knowledge economy, promoting technology transfer and attracting talent. Including spin-offs in the accelerated visa process can help these companies grow faster and attract talent from abroad. The first spin-off has already been included in the programme. Visa-related issues are among the topics that technology companies frequently consult with CzechInvest experts.
As part of an application for a residence permit, participants in the Key and Scientific Personnel Programme will generally no longer be required to submit a document equivalent to an extract from the Czech Criminal Records Register issued by the state or states in which they have resided for a total of more than six months during the previous three years. Instead, they may submit a sworn declaration confirming that they have no criminal record or have not been convicted or sentenced in those countries.
The statutory right of a diplomatic mission or the Ministry of the Interior to request such a document in justified cases remains unaffected. An extract equivalent to an extract from the Czech Criminal Records Register issued by the country of which the foreign national is a citizen will continue to be a standard mandatory requirement.
Participants included in the programme are guaranteed:
- the possibility of submitting an application for a residence permit at a Czech diplomatic mission abroad, together with their immediate family members;
- the possibility of simplifying the administrative requirements associated with submitting an application for a residence permit, including replacing certain documents with a written confirmation, such as proof of accommodation;
- processing of the residence permit application within 30 days of its submission (delays may occur in crisis situations).
Technology transfer plays a crucial role in transforming research findings into commercially viable projects, as demonstrated by CzechInvest's experience with its annual National Spin-off Day. Bringing together research organisations, universities, investors and businesses creates a unique environment for the establishment of specialised technology companies.
“The fact that we were able to include spin-offs in the programme so quickly clearly demonstrates how close and effective CzechInvest's cooperation is not only with the Ministry of Industry and Trade, but also with other public-sector partners. It is great that we can respond flexibly to the needs of our clients and support them in their efforts,” emphasised Veronika Hrušková, Specialist for Visa Programmes and International Talent Development at CzechInvest.
Applications for inclusion in the Key and Scientific Personnel Programme are processed by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and CzechInvest.
The Ministry of Industry and Trade processes applications submitted by investors. Applications can be sent to klicovypersonal@mpo.gov.cz.
CzechInvest processes applicatiklicovypersonal@mpo.gov.czons submitted by research organisations, technology companies, newly established companies and start-ups. Applications can be sent to programklicovy@czechinvest.gov.cz.