Living in Czech Republic: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Czech Republic.
Landlocked in Central Europe, Czech Republic is a member of the European Union. It attracts expatriates in large numbers due to its modernity, its high income economy, as well as its high living standards.
With a rich history, Czech Republic is deemed to be one of Europe's most stable countries after the fall of the Berlin wall. It offers quality living to expatriates who wish to settle and work here.
As a member of the European Union, the Czech Republic is a key destination for expatriates looking for new opportunities. Thanks to its developed and prosperous economy, along with its great cultural heritage, it has been attracting many foreign professionals, investors, as well as students over the years. European nationals, in particular, can benefit from several advantages on moving there.
Geography and demography
The Czech Republic is surrounded by Poland, Germany, Austria and Slovakia. Far from the ocean, it enjoys a local temperate climate with warm summers and cloudy, humid and cold winters. The country obtained its independence in 1993. It became a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 1999 and of the European Union on May 1st, 2004.
Divided into two major zones, the west side is known as the Bohemia while the east is known as the Moravia. Prague, the capital city, consists of 14 administrative areas known as kraje as well as 6,254 municipalities.
In administrative terms, the country also comprises several districts serving as basic territorial units for several offices, namely courts, decentralized State services, police organizational units, as well as other public institutions.
In 2015, the Czech population consisted of more than 10.5 million inhabitants.
Languages
Czech is not only the official language but also the mother tongue of almost half of the population. However, English and German are taught as second languages at school. Russian, for its part, is less spoken than these two languages despite its origins and immigration. Slovakian is also slowly fading away.
Economy
The Czech Republic is deemed to be one of Central Europe's emerging countries thanks to its highly developed and industrialized economy. Various political and economic decisions and some major upheavals have led to the dismantling of a planned and spectacularly rigid economy followed by the transition to a market economy. Today, the Czech Republic is repairing its economy as well as its laws.
The Czech economy mainly relies on the electrical, mechanical, construction and automotive industries along with services. These two sectors have employed 39.6 and 55.5 % of the population respectively.
Useful links:
Expat.com ' Czech Republic
Official Portal of the Czech Republic www.czech.cz
European Union Portal ' Czech Republic europa.eu
Key facts
Browse by category
Formalities
Find out more on visas, passports and entry requirements to travel to the Czech Republic.
Travelling to the Czech Republic
If you are thinking about travelling to the Czech Republic, you may need to apply for a visa prior to your travels. Or you may not. Find out more in ...
Visas
All you need to know on work visas, work permits, working holiday visas and residence permits to live and work in Czech Republic.
Visas for the Czech Republic
If you are planning to travel to the Czech Republic, regardless of the intended duration of stay, you are probably wondering whether you need a visa ...
Work
Dive into the Czech Republic labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Czech Republic.
Work in the Czech Republic
Located in Central Europe, the Czech Republic is very welcoming towards expatriates. In fact, in ...
Setting up a business in the Czech Republic
The Czech Republic may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of an economic ...
Jobs in Czech Republic
Discover professional opportunities in Czech Republic and boost your career.
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Czech Republic. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.
Accommodation in the Czech Republic
If you are planning to settle in the Czech Republic, finding accommodation will probably be one of your main priorities. It can be quite complicated ...
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Czech Republic.
Study in the Czech Republic
Looking forward to studying in the Czech Republic? Find all that you need to know about relating conditions and procedures in this article.
Health care
Understanding the healthcare system in Czech Republic: public and private health system, health insurance...
Bank
Navigate the banking system in Czech Republic: how to choose a bank and open a bank account.
Tax
All you need to know about income tax, the tax system and filing your taxes as an expat in Czech Republic.
Tax in the Czech Republic
When moving abroad, tax will probably be one of your main concerns. In the Czech Republic, different types of taxes apply to both local and foreign ...
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Czech Republic.
Getting around in the Czech Republic
Located in Central Europe, the Czech Republic has a comprehensive transport network including buses, trains, tramway, among others. Wherever you have ...
Driving
Essential information on driving requirements in Czech Republic, driver's license exchange and international permits.
Driving in the Czech Republic
If you are moving to the Czech Republic, especially if you are making a long stay in the country, you will probably want to drive. As a foreign ...
Removal
Moving to the Czech Republic? Find useful information and tips to organize your move.
Moving to the Czech Republic
Relocation will be an important part of your expatriation project to the Czech Republic. Here are ...
Travelling to the Czech Republic with your pets
If you are planning to settle in the Czech Republic, you might be wondering whether your pet can ...
Free quotes for your move
Get the best offers to easily organize your relocation to Czech Republic.
Communications
Internet and phone providers, plans, and everything you need to stay connected in Czech Republic.
Phones and Internet in the Czech Republic
On moving to the Czech Republic, you will definitely have to access to telecommunications, whether for work, research or keeping in touch with your ...
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Czech Republic.
Everyday life
Eager to discover what life in Czech Republic looks like? Here's a taste.
Lifestyle in the Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is by far one of the most attractive destinations in Central Europe for expatriates. Rich in culture and traditions and known for ...
Articles from the magazine
Adventurings
I'm Cynthia from Seattle, WA, U.S.A. Moving to the Czech Republic happened a bit by accident. I took my teaching course in Prague at the end of 2012 and ending up sticking around Czech Republic afterwards - where I still am today!
Kevan in Brno : "The Czech Republic has a lot to offer"
When he arrived in Czech Republic from Canada, where his girlfriend lives, Kevan didn't know that the country will be his new home. Living there since 2004, now in Brno, the second largest city, the canadian gives us his vision of this country of Central Europe.
From Annecy to Mauritius: Meet Lionel, a digital expert
Originally from Annecy, Lionel discusses his evolution from an early career in sales to his current role as an expert in optimizing online processes for French SMEs. Currently based in Mauritius, he explains how he merges technological innovation with personal connections to transform business strategies and why he chose this tropical paradise as his new home.
Author Melanie Cheng discusses the impact of a bicultural upbringing on identity
Join us as we explore the journey of Melanie Cheng, a writer profoundly influenced by her upbringing in Hong Kong and Australia. Her unique bicultural background has deeply shaped her perspective and voice as a storyteller. Today, Melanie shares insights into how navigating two distinct cultures has enriched her writing, offering a nuanced exploration of identity, belonging, and the complex interplay of language and tradition in her work.
How different countries approach midday breaks
Lunch breaks are more than just lunch. They can also be a cultural phenomenon, especially when you consider how different a lunch experience in a different country can be. Today, we are looking into what lunch breaks are like across the world and which countries take them most seriously.
Understanding inheritance law and taxes
The cross-border inheritance of assets presents a complex legal and financial terrain for expats with families in other countries. No two nations share identical inheritance laws, and the specifics of bilateral tax treaties vary as well. So, how can you navigate this minefield without losing access to your inherited assets, complicating the donation of your assets to your children, or facing excessive taxes? Here are some tips.
Expat women: Why setting boundaries is important
Launched in October 2017, the #Metoo movement has empowered women to speak out. Globally, women from all walks of life, both well-known and private, have come forward to expose violence against women. Central to these discussions is the concept of consent, which at first glance appears straightforward—voluntarily agreeing to engage in an activity. Yet, its application, particularly regarding women, often faces scrutiny. Common misunderstandings persist, such as interpreting a "no" as a "yes," or considering a coerced "yes" as consent. This raises a critical question: How do you, as a woman, establish personal boundaries while living abroad?
How to manage international teams and overcome cultural barriers
Taking on a management role abroad is an intriguing career move, yet many underestimate the significance of understanding cultural nuances in the workplace for a successful international leadership role. What key aspects should you consider beyond the usual cultural stereotypes?
