When to apply
You apply to extend a long-term residence permit no earlier than 120 days and no later than the day it expires (§ 47(1) of the Act on the Residence of Foreigners). With the application you submit, among other things, proof of health insurance for the whole period you are applying for.
For students: a residence permit for university studies can be extended repeatedly, always by up to two years (§ 44a(2)).
What the new policy has to meet
When you extend your stay while in the Czech Republic, the law accepts only comprehensive cover from an insurer authorised in the Czech Republic (§ 180j(6)). The usual conditions apply as well:
- a limit of at least EUR 400,000 per claim, with no excess,
- no exclusion of injuries caused by your own fault or under the influence of alcohol or drugs,
- cover for the whole period you are applying for.
A policy from your home country is not enough for an extension.
How to avoid a gap
- Note the end date of your current policy - it is on the policy itself.
- About three to four months before your permit expires, look at the prices and choose the insurer.
- Set the start of the new policy to the day after the old one ends.
- Pay in advance - with most insurers cover starts only once the premium is paid, and the Ministry may ask for proof of payment.
- Submit the policy with your application.
Same insurer, or a new one?
The extension is a good moment to compare. Tariffs change, and some insurers have lower rates for students. In our calculator you see current prices side by side and can arrange the new policy online or with an advisor. What a policy costs students.