Europe’s Czech Republic has drafted a new law aimed at regulating the entry and stay of foreigners by digitising the residence agenda, SchengenVisaInfo reported.

In a statement, the interior ministry said the draft law passed the interdepartmental comment procedure and will now be submitted to the government.

The ministry was of the view that the law currently in place was “outdated” and “confusing” due to repeated amendments. It must be noted that there will not be any changes related to the conditions for a residence permit.

“With digitisation, we will speed up the residency procedure and reduce the administrative burden,” Interior Minister Vit Rakusan said.

According to the ministry, a new information system is also being built that will incorporate the creation of an electronic identity and a foreigner’s account designed for non-citizens.

The new law does not facilitate the rules in terms of granting residence, however, it clarifies the regulation of foreigners’ stay in the country, Rakusan said.

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The bill also consists of changes in the registration of European Union citizens seeking to stay in the country for over 90 days.

“The role of the so-called guarantor will also be emphasised – a person or entity [educational, scientific or cultural institution, employer, sports club, etc] who guarantees the purpose of the foreigner’s stay in our territory,” said the statement.

The amended law and the new system are set to take effect on January 1, 2026. Registration of EU citizens will continue to be voluntary in 2026 and is expected to become mandatory from 2027.