The year 2025 brings several important legal changes in the Czech Republic that affect labor law, family law, criminal law, environmental protection, and public support regulations. These updates reflect the evolving needs of society, the labor market, and sustainability efforts.
Here’s a clear summary of the most significant legal changes you should know about.
⚖️ Labor Law: Greater Flexibility and Stronger Protection
A major amendment to the Labour Code (Act No. 120/2025 Coll.) takes effect on June 1, 2025, and introduces the following key changes:
- Longer probationary periods:
For regular employees, the probationary period is extended from 3 to 4 months; for managers, from 6 to 8 months. - Notice period calculation:
The notice period now starts on the date the notice is delivered, not the first day of the following month. - Working during parental leave:
Employees on parental leave may now legally work for the same employer under a contract for work (DPP or DPČ), even in the same role. - Injury-related termination:
In cases of termination due to a work injury or occupational disease, compensation will now be paid from the employer’s mandatory insurance, rather than directly by the employer. - Youth employment:
Teenagers aged 14 can work during summer holidays under strict conditions—maximum 6 hours per day and 30 hours per week.
👨👩👧 Family Law: More Rights for Registered Partners
As of January 1, 2025, a civil code amendment brings enhanced rights to registered partners, aligning them more closely with married couples:
- Joint property regime:
Registered partners are now allowed to establish joint property. - Tax and pension rights:
Equal access to tax benefits and eligibility for widow’s or widower’s pensions. - Adoption rights:
Registered partners may adopt the child of their partner.
This reform marks a major step forward for legal equality and family diversity.
⚖️ Criminal Law: Modernization and Victim Protection
An amendment to the Criminal Code (Act No. 166/2024 Coll.), effective January 1, 2025, introduces:
- Stronger protection for victims of sexual crimes:
Clearer legal definitions and stricter penalties. - Expanded financial penalties:
Courts can impose fines in more types of criminal cases, particularly where the offender has benefited financially.
🌿 Environmental Law: New Rules for Agriculture and Water Protection
Effective April 1, 2025, updates to the Fertilizers Act and the Water Act introduce several key measures:
- Fertilization records:
Farmers must submit fertilization logs through the ISPOP (Integrated Reporting System). - Emergency planning:
Companies must upload their emergency response plans (e.g., for chemical spills) to ISPOP.
These changes aim to increase transparency and sustainability in agriculture and water management.
🏛️ Public Support: Stricter Oversight
As of April 3, 2025, Act No. 69/2025 Coll. amends the rules on public support, updating Act No. 215/2004 Coll. It improves transparency and introduces more stringent oversight of how state aid and subsidies are granted and monitored.
Conclusion
The 2025 legal reforms reflect the Czech Republic’s commitment to modernizing its legal system, protecting vulnerable groups, and encouraging sustainable practices. Whether you’re an employer, employee, business owner, or legal professional, staying informed and compliant is essential in today’s rapidly evolving legal landscape.
For further details, consult official resources such as:
- The Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs
- The Ministry of Justice
- The portal zakonyprolidi.cz