Odpovědný zástupce (responsible representative) is an individual responsible for carrying out the activity under a trade licence properly. For companies it is often mandatory; for an OSVČ it is optional.
When a responsible representative is needed
For legal entities such as an s.r.o., a responsible representative is appointed for all types of trade licences if the business is not carried out personally by the entrepreneur. For free trades (volná) no qualification is needed, but a representative is still named in the application. For craft, bound and licensed trades the representative must hold the relevant professional qualification.
Requirements for the representative
- at least 18 years old and legally capable;
- no criminal record for certain offences;
- professional qualification where required for the licence;
- a link to the company (employment contract, participation in the company or another relationship in which the person really is responsible for the activity).
The representative can be the director or a shareholder, provided they meet the requirements. A foreigner can also be a representative.
What happens without a representative
Without an appointment, or if the qualification is missing, the trade office may refuse the licence or suspend the activity. If the representative leaves, the company must appoint a new one within the set time limit.
How to appoint one
The notification of the appointment is filed with the trade office together with the representative’s consent and proof of qualification. We check the requirements in advance and handle the filing — more on company formation and OSVČ registration.
