Expat Professionals In Czech Republic To Lose Their Jobs

Expat jobs in the Czech Republic to be the first to go due to the pandemic.

As increasing numbers of Czech companies cut their workforce, expatriate workers are likely to be the first to lose their jobs due to the economic effect of the coronavirus pandemic. Workers in the tourism sector and low-skilled workers in industry are at the highest risk of being let go, with non-contract factory workers also expected to face mass redundancies. In addition, agency jobs as well as jobs in the transport sector are also at risk, and expat entrepreneurs are also fearing an end to their European careers.

The good news for citizens of the Czech Republic is that they’ll be last to lose their jobs, thus keeping the country’s unemployment rate relatively stable during these difficult times. Officials believe the majority of jobless expats will head back to their home countries, with 25 per cent of Czech businesses having already laid off employees during the early months of the pandemic. Other companies opted to reduce hours worked, reduce salaries or reduce benefits, although Czech wages rose by five percent during 2020’s first quarter.

The full numbers of jobs lost won’t be released until this summer when notice periods expire. For the expat professional entrepreneurs in the tech sector who’ve arrived in the country over the past decade, the pandemic is likely to see the end of their dreams of getting a hold in this popular sector. Some had decided to stay long-term, and others had brought their families over after their new businesses were established, but it’s uncertain if expatriates will receive any help at all from the Czech government.