As Radio Prague notes, interest in employment in the Czech Republic increased after its accession to the EU. Today, the main reason is economic growth, which is also linked to a decrease in unemployment. Starting next year, the employment of foreigners could become easier thanks to the government's proposed introduction of a system of “green cards,” which allow simultaneously obtaining a residence and work visa. Institutions are allowed to hire a foreigner if, within 30 working days after the vacancy announcement, no citizens of the Czech Republic or the European Union have applied for the position.
Currently, the law on “green cards” is being discussed in the Lower House of the Czech Parliament. For now, citizens of other EU countries, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland can work in the Czech Republic without a permit.
According to the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of the Czech Republic, the unemployment rate in the country in May was 5%. This is the lowest figure since November 1997. The reason for this phenomenon was the start of seasonal work.
The low rate of decline in unemployment, according to analysts, indicates a slowdown in the growth of the Czech economy and a lack of suitable candidates for employment. Currently, there are 151,000 job vacancies in the country. There are two candidates per vacancy, but this does not take into account regional differences. The highest unemployment rate (12.5%) is in the city of Most, the lowest (from 1.5% to 2%) is in Prague and its surroundings.
According to the European Statistical Office Eurostat, among European countries, the highest unemployment is in Slovakia (9.9%), and the lowest is in Norway (2.4%).