D/VC/01 — Long-Term Residence for Family Reunification (Povolení k dlouhodobému pobytu – sloučení rodiny)

The Long-Term Residence for Family Reunification is a biometric residence permit established under Section 42a of Act No. 326/1999 Coll. This permit is the primary, long-term solution for family members of third-country nationals who intend to reside in the Czech Republic for more than one year. It fills the gap between temporary visa stays and permanent residency, providing a stable, renewable legal status that allows families to integrate fully into the country. It is designed to be a more permanent and robust status than the initial long-term visa, reflecting a long-term commitment to living in the Czech Republic.

This permit is for spouses, minor children, and specific dependent relatives of foreign nationals who have already resided in the Czech Republic for a qualifying period—typically 15 months, though shorter periods apply for certain categories like Blue Card holders. It is ideal for families who have moved beyond the initial settlement phase and are looking for long-term stability. The permit is distinctive because it grants the holder a biometric residence card and, under specific conditions, facilitates access to the labor market, distinguishing it from the more restrictive, purpose-specific long-term visas.