Notice Period in the Czech Republic 2026: When Resignation Takes Effect
The notice period in the Czech Republic changed under an amendment to the Labour Code effective from June 2025. In 2026, the usual period starts on the day a written notice is delivered, not automatically on the first day of the next calendar month.
For employees planning to resign, this affects the exact end date of employment and the earliest practical start date of a new job.
Most ordinary notices have a minimum two-month period, although some employer-initiated terminations follow a shorter statutory period.
Notice period in the Czech Republic: when does it start?
According to the Czech Ministry of Labour's current guidance, the period generally begins on delivery. For example, if a normal two-month notice is received on 12 October, employment ordinarily ends on 12 December.
Is the Czech notice period always two months?
The usual statutory minimum is two months. Specific notices issued by an employer for reasons under Section 52(f)–(h) may have a minimum period of one month. Special rules also exist for certain transfers of employment obligations.
How to resign from a job legally
Notice must be in writing and delivered to the employer. A verbal resignation does not have the same legal effect. Employees usually do not need to give a reason for ordinary resignation, but they should keep evidence of when the employer received the document.
Resignation versus mutual agreement
A termination agreement, known as dohoda, is different from a notice of resignation. Both parties agree to an end date; it need not follow the standard notice period. Probationary termination is also governed by separate rules.
Can a contract change the notice period?
The Labour Code allows certain individually agreed written changes to the duration or calculation of notice, subject to legal conditions. Review your employment contract and any amendments before giving notice, particularly if you agreed to a longer period.
What foreign workers need to check
Employment-law rules and immigration rules are separate. Holders of certain employee-card statuses may need to notify the Interior Ministry or meet conditions before changing employers. Confirm your residence status before you accept a new starting date.
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