As of May 2011, non-EU nationals will need a resident card with biometric data that includes their picture and two fingerprints in order to enter the Czech Republic. Those holding old resident cards do not have to change them until they expire or need updating. In addition, as of the first of this year, extended stay or permanent resident applications must be made to the Ministry of the Interior rather than the foreign police who are now limited to issuing and extending short-term visas. Long-term visas are now issued for six months rather than a year, and all applicants for long-term visas or long-term residence must show bank statements or valid credit cards to the Ministry of the Interior proving financial means to stay in the Republic. Non-EU nationals with long-term employment contracts for up to two years, for work requiring at least a high school education, can apply for a blue card. People entering the Republic for the:

- performance of work,

- running a business,

- or acting as a statutory representative of a company in the Czech Republic

are eligible for a business-related residence permit. Exchanging a current residence permit for a business-related residence permit requires proof of residence in the Republic for two years.