Czech Republic Life in the country

Looking for housing in the Czech Republic requires patience, especially if you plan to move to Prague or Brno. In large cities, good deals can disappear just a few hours after being posted, so it’s important to respond quickly to new listings and have your documents ready in advance.

Where to look for an apartment

The most popular platforms for finding housing:

• Sreality.cz — one of the largest real estate portals in the Czech Republic. There are many listings from agencies here, so you often have to pay a commission;
• Bezrealitky.cz — a service for renting directly from owners. This is a good option if you want to avoid real estate agency commissions;
• Facebook Marketplace — a convenient tool for finding housing, but you need to be especially careful about fraudulent listings;
• Facebook groups dedicated to renting housing in Prague, Brno, Ostrava, Plzeň, and other cities;
• Ukrainian communities in the Czech Republic, where rental offers or recommendations for verified landlords are often posted.

What documents may be required

To sign a lease agreement, you will usually need:

• a passport;
• a document confirming your right to stay in the Czech Republic;
• proof of income;
• an employment contract or a letter from your employer;
• a bank statement.

Some landlords thoroughly check a tenant’s financial solvency, especially in Prague and Brno. If you have a formal job, a stable income, and a complete set of documents, this increases your chances of securing the apartment you want.

How to Avoid Scams

You should pay special attention to fraudulent schemes. If a landlord asks you to transfer a security deposit before viewing the apartment, refuses to show the property in person, or sends documents of questionable quality, this should raise suspicion.

It is safer to make any payments only after:

• viewing the apartment in person;
• verifying the landlord’s identity;
• signing the lease agreement;
• agreeing on all lease terms;
• receiving confirmation that the property is indeed available for rent.

Registering a residential address

For foreigners, an official residential address is of great importance. It may be required for interactions with immigration authorities, banks, employers, educational institutions, and medical facilities. That is why it is worth finding out in advance whether the landlord is willing to provide the documents necessary for registering your place of residence.

If you are unsure about the legal aspects of renting or want to review the contract before signing, we recommend consulting with the specialists at Visit Ukraine. A lawyer will help you evaluate the terms of the lease, explain the rights and obligations of the parties, and help you avoid financial risks during your move.

Food costs in the Czech Republic depend on where you live, your lifestyle, and your family’s habits. Living in Prague and major tourist cities is usually the most expensive, while food costs can be lower in smaller towns.

Food Costs

If you cook at home, you should budget an average of 4,000–6,000 Czech korunas (160–240 euros) per person per month. For a couple, a comfortable budget is 8,000–12,000 Czech koruna (320–480 euros), and a family with a child should budget 12,000–18,000 Czech koruna (480–720 euros). If you regularly eat at cafes, order delivery, or buy ready-made meals, your budget may be significantly higher.

Most Popular Supermarkets

There are many large supermarket chains in the Czech Republic, so shopping is usually no problem even in small towns. The most common ones are Lidl, Albert, Kaufland, Tesco, Billa, and Penny Market. Lidl is often chosen for its good value for money, especially when it comes to dairy products, baked goods, vegetables, and meat. Kaufland is ideal for large weekly shopping trips, as it offers a wide range of products and frequently runs great promotions. Albert is convenient for daily shopping close to home, Tesco is popular thanks to its Clubcard loyalty program, and Penny Market is considered one of the budget-friendly options for purchasing basic groceries.

Billa is usually a bit more expensive, but it’s often chosen for its high-quality fresh produce, ready-to-eat meals, and convenient store locations in central areas. In major cities, there are also specialty stores offering Asian, Ukrainian, Polish, or Balkan goods, where you can find familiar products not available in regular supermarkets.

Average food prices

Average prices for basic food items in 2026:

• bread (500 g) — 35–50 Czech koruna (1.4–2 euros);
• milk (1 L) — 25–35 Czech koruna (1–1.4 euros);
• eggs (10 pcs.) — 55–80 Czech koruna (2.2–3.2 euros);
• chicken breast (1 kg) — 180–250 Czech koruna (7–10 euros);
• pork (1 kg) — 150–220 Czech koruna (6–9 euros);
• hard cheese (1 kg) — 220–350 Czech koruna (9–14 euros);

• butter (250 g) — 55–80 Czech koruna (2.2–3.2 euros);
• potatoes (1 kg) — 20–35 Czech koruna (0.8–1.4 euros);
• apples (1 kg) — 35–60 Czech koruna (1.4–2.4 euros);
• drinking water (1.5 L) — 12–20 Czech koruna (0.5–0.8 euros).

Prices may vary depending on the season. For example, fruits and vegetables are cheaper in the summer and early fall, when there is more local produce on the market. Meat, cheese, coffee, butter, and cleaning supplies often become significantly cheaper during sales, so many locals plan their shopping around weekly supermarket promotions.

Cafes, restaurants, and business lunches

If you frequently eat out, food expenses can quickly add up. Lunch at an inexpensive restaurant costs approximately 180–250 Czech koruna (7–10 euros), a weekday business lunch costs 150–220 Czech koruna (6–9 euros), and dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant costs 800–1,400 Czech koruna (32–56 euros). A cup of coffee in a café usually costs 55–90 Czech koruna (2–4 euros).

Business lunches in the Czech Republic are often a cost-effective option for office workers and students. On weekdays, many restaurants offer a set menu that includes soup, a main course, or a drink. Such a menu is usually cheaper than dishes from the main menu, so locals take full advantage of it.

Food delivery through services like Wolt or Bolt Food is convenient but significantly more expensive than eating at home. Delivery fees and service charges are added to the cost of the meals, so regular orders can significantly increase your monthly budget.

How to save on groceries

To cut costs, most Czechs actively use supermarket mobile apps. The most useful ones are Lidl Plus, Tesco Clubcard, Můj Albert, Kaufland Card, and Billa Club. With these apps, you can receive personalized coupons, discounts on your favorite items, and special offers that aren’t always available without a loyalty card. Discounts on certain items can reach 30–50%, especially on meat, dairy products, coffee, cleaning supplies, and non-perishable goods.

It’s also worth keeping an eye on weekly supermarket flyers.

In the Czech Republic, many people plan their shopping around sales: for example, they stock up on meat, cheese, butter, or coffee when they’re on sale. This allows them to significantly reduce costs without compromising on product quality.

Farmers’ markets and local products

Farmers’ markets are popular in major Czech cities. In Prague, Brno, Ostrava, and other cities, they operate on specific days of the week and offer seasonal vegetables, fruits, baked goods, meat products, cheeses, honey, and local products directly from producers. Prices at these markets aren’t always lower than in supermarkets, but the quality of the products is often higher.

Farmers’ markets are especially useful for those looking for fresh seasonal produce or wanting to buy products directly from local producers. For Ukrainians, this is also a good way to better understand the local culinary culture and gradually adapt to everyday life in the Czech Republic.

The Czech Republic has one of the most developed transportation systems in Central Europe. Public transportation runs smoothly even in small towns, and thanks to an extensive network of railways and intercity buses, you can reach virtually any region of the country without a car.

Public Transportation in Prague

The capital operates a single integrated public transportation system called PID, which combines the metro, trams, buses, commuter trains, and even some river routes. For passengers, this means that a single ticket is sufficient for transferring between different modes of transportation during its validity period.

The Prague metro consists of three lines and remains the fastest way to get around the city. The tram network operates practically around the clock, and at night it is supplemented by special night routes. That is why many Prague residents do not use their own cars at all in their daily lives.

Current fares in Prague as of 2026:

• 30-minute ticket — 36 Czech koruna via the app or 39 Czech koruna in paper format;
• 90-minute ticket — 46 Czech koruna via the app or 50 Czech koruna in paper format;
• 24-hour ticket — 140 Czech koruna via the app or 150 Czech koruna in paper format;
• 72-hour ticket — 340 Czech koruna via the app or 350 Czech koruna in paper format.

For those who live in Prague, it is much more cost-effective to purchase a Lítačka e-pass. A monthly pass costs approximately 550 Czech koruna, and an annual pass costs 3,650 Czech koruna. This amounts to only about 12 euros per month, making Prague’s public transportation one of the most affordable among European capitals.

It is important to remember that there are no turnstiles in the Prague metro. Inspectors conduct checks and may verify your ticket at any time. The fine for riding without a ticket is up to 1,500 Czech koruna.

Public Transportation in Other Cities

Brno, Ostrava, Plzeň, Liberec, and other cities also have modern public transportation systems. The system is based on buses, trams, and trolleybuses. A single-ride fare typically costs between 20 and 35 Czech koruna (0.8–1.4 euros), and a monthly pass costs between 400 and 800 Czech koruna (16–32 euros), depending on the city.

Trains and Intercity Transport

Czech Railways is one of the most popular ways to travel around the country. Trains run regularly between major cities, and many routes feature modern cars with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, power outlets for charging devices, and comfortable seats.

The most popular carriers:

• České dráhy (ČD);
• RegioJet;
• Leo Express;
• FlixBus.

The trip from Prague to Brno takes about 2.5–3 hours and costs an average of 250–450 Czech koruna (10–18 euros). You can reach Ostrava in 3–4 hours for 300–600 Czech koruna (12–24 euros). If you buy tickets in advance, prices can be significantly lower.

For Ukrainians who regularly travel between EU countries, the Czech Republic is also an important transportation hub. Direct bus and train routes to Germany, Austria, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary are available from Prague.

To plan your trips, you can use the Visit Ukraine services and purchase tickets for buses, trains, or flights all in one place.

Traveling by car

Despite the well-developed public transportation system, many Ukrainians in the Czech Republic use their own cars. This is especially true for families with children or people living in the suburbs.

Major car-related expenses in 2026:

• A95 gasoline — 38–43 Czech koruna per liter (1.5–1.7 euros);
• diesel fuel — 37–42 Czech korunas per liter (1.5–1.7 euros);
• parking in central Prague — 40–80 Czech korunas per hour (1.6–3.2 euros);
• annual electronic vignette — 2,570 Czech korunas;
• 30-day vignette — 480 Czech koruna;
• 10-day vignette — 300 Czech koruna;
• 1-day vignette — 230 Czech koruna.

An electronic vignette system is in effect on all highways in the Czech Republic. They can be purchased online in just a few minutes. Enforcement is automatic based on the vehicle’s license plate number, so driving without a vignette quickly results in fines.

Parking and Fines

Major cities in the Czech Republic have a system of paid parking zones. Rules are particularly strict in Prague, where a significant portion of parking spaces is reserved exclusively for local residents.

Blue zones are primarily used by local residents, while tourists and foreigners have access to purple or orange zones with hourly rates. Illegal parking is subject to a fine ranging from 500 to 2,000 Czech korunas, and in some cases, the vehicle may be towed.

Ukrainian Cars in the Czech Republic

Owners of cars with Ukrainian registration should pay special attention to the applicable regulations. In addition to the mandatory “Green Card” insurance policy, the Czech Republic has introduced requirements for registering Ukrainian cars in a special state registry.

To legally use a car, you must have a valid international insurance policy. You can apply for a Green Card online on the Visit Ukraine website in just a few minutes.

For more detailed information on traffic rules, parking regulations, requirements for Ukrainian drivers, and using a car in the Czech Republic, read here. We also recommend reading the article on mandatory registration of Ukrainian vehicles in the Czech Republic to avoid fines and problems during inspections.

The Czech banking system is considered one of the most stable in Central Europe. Despite the country’s membership in the European Union, the official currency remains the Czech koruna (CZK). Salaries, rent, utilities, and most everyday expenses are paid in korunas.

For Ukrainians, opening a local bank account is one of the first steps after moving. Without it, it will be more difficult to receive a salary, sign up for certain services, get a cell phone plan, or use some government services.

The Czech Republic is one of the countries where cashless payments have become the norm. You can pay with a bank card or smartphone almost everywhere: in supermarkets, cafes, public transportation, pharmacies, and even at many farmers’ markets.

Most Popular Banks

Among foreigners and Ukrainians, the following banks are the most popular:

• Česká spořitelna — the country’s largest bank with an extensive network of branches and ATMs. It offers the modern George mobile app and convenient customer support.
• ČSOB — one of the oldest banks in the Czech Republic, often chosen by employees of international companies and entrepreneurs.
• Raiffeisenbank — offers high-quality online banking and service in English.
• Moneta Money Bank — popular among young customers and private-sector employees.
• Air Bank — a modern digital bank with a simple mobile app and minimal red tape.
• Fio banka — known for free account maintenance and favorable terms for international transfers.

Most banks have mobile apps in English and support Apple Pay, Google Pay, and instant domestic transfers.

What documents are required to open an account

Both individuals with temporary protection and foreigners with a residence permit, work visa, or student status can open an account.

To open an account, you typically need:

• a foreign passport;
• a document confirming the right to stay in the Czech Republic;
• a Czech residential address;
• a Czech phone number;
• proof of employment or enrollment.

At some banks, you can open an account in 20–30 minutes without an appointment. However, in major cities, popular branches often operate by appointment via the website or mobile app.

For Ukrainians with temporary protection status, most major banks offer a simplified account opening procedure.

Service fees and commissions

Competition among banks in the Czech Republic is quite high, so most basic services remain free of charge.

The following services are typically provided at no additional cost:

• account opening;
• debit card issuance;
• mobile app;
• online banking;
• domestic transfers in Czech koruna;
• payments within the Czech Republic.

At the same time, additional fees may be charged for:

• international SWIFT transfers;
• cash withdrawals at other banks’ ATMs;
• currency conversion;
• maintenance of certain premium cards.

In most cases, maintaining a standard account costs 0 Czech koruna per month provided the card is actively used.

ATMs and Cash

Although the Czech Republic is actively transitioning to cashless payments, ATMs remain very common. It is most cost-effective to use your own bank’s ATMs.

Special attention should be paid to so-called dynamic currency conversion (DCC). If, when withdrawing cash or making a card payment, the ATM offers the option to choose between debiting in euros or hryvnias, it is almost always more advantageous to choose payment in Czech korunas. This allows you to avoid additional fees and an unfavorable exchange rate.

The Czech Koruna and Currency Transactions

Despite the Czech Republic’s integration into the EU economy, the country currently has no plans to adopt the euro. Therefore, most financial transactions are conducted in Czech korunas.

In Prague’s tourist areas, some shops and restaurants may accept euros, but the exchange rate is often unfavorable. For everyday expenses, it is better to use korunas.

Money transfers between Ukraine and the Czech Republic

For international transfers, many Ukrainians use not only traditional banks but also modern financial services:

• Wise;
• Revolut;
• Paysera;
• Western Union;
• MoneyGram.

These services allow you to quickly exchange currency and send funds between European countries with lower fees than traditional banks.

Many Ukrainians also continue to use Ukrainian bank cards. However, for long-term residence in the Czech Republic, a local account significantly simplifies financial transactions and helps avoid additional currency conversion costs.

If you are just planning to move to the Czech Republic and are unsure which documents are required to open an account, obtain temporary protection, or complete other financial procedures, the experts at Visit Ukraine will help you navigate the current requirements and prepare the necessary documents.

Reliable mobile service and internet access are essential parts of settling in after moving to the Czech Republic. Most government services, banking transactions, doctor’s appointments, and even apartment rentals now require a mobile phone number and email address.

4G coverage is available throughout virtually the entire country, including small towns and rural areas. 5G networks are being actively rolled out in Prague, Brno, Ostrava, Plzeň, and other major cities. Service quality is considered among the best in Central Europe, although mobile internet prices remain higher than in many other EU countries.

Major mobile operators

There are three major operators on the market:

• T-Mobile Czech Republic — the country’s largest operator with extensive coverage and consistent service quality.
• O2 Czech Republic — popular among locals and business users, offering a wide range of rate plans and service packages.
• Vodafone Czech Republic — known for its affordable packages for active mobile internet users and international calls.

In addition to these, there are mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) that use the networks of major companies and often offer cheaper rates:

• Kaktus;
• Tesco Mobile;
• SAZKAmobil;
• BLESKmobil;
• Mobil.cz.

These operators can be a good option for those who rarely make calls or use small amounts of mobile data.

How to buy a SIM card

You can buy a prepaid SIM card at virtually any supermarket, shopping center, carrier store, or kiosk. In most cases, you don’t need to sign a contract or open a bank account to activate a prepaid plan.

For Ukrainians who have just arrived, this is the most convenient option for the first few months of living in the Czech Republic. Once you have obtained your documents and a permanent address, you can switch to a contract plan with more favorable terms.

How much do mobile services cost

Average costs for mobile services in 2026 are:

• starter pack with a SIM card — 200–500 Czech koruna (8–20 euros);
• a plan with 5–10 GB of data — 300–500 Czech koruna (12–20 euros) per month;
• a plan with 20–30 GB of data — 500–800 Czech koruna (20–32 euros) per month;
• unlimited plan — from 700 to 1,200 Czech koruna (28–48 euros) per month.

For comparison, similar plans are cheaper in many EU countries, which is why the Czech Republic is often called one of the most expensive countries in Europe for mobile internet.

Roaming in EU Countries

One of the advantages of Czech mobile operators is the “Roam Like at Home” policy. This means that most plans allow you to make calls, send messages, and use mobile internet while traveling within the European Union at no extra cost.

If you frequently travel to Germany, Austria, Poland, or other EU countries, it’s worth checking the available data allowance for roaming, as it may differ from your domestic plan.

Contract or Prepaid

For a long-term stay, it’s more cost-effective to sign up for a contract plan. Such plans usually offer more data, unlimited calls, and lower monthly costs.

To sign a contract, you usually need:

• a valid passport;
• proof of legal residence in the Czech Republic;
• proof of address;
• a bank account in the Czech Republic;
• and sometimes proof of employment.

Be sure to check the contract term before signing. Many providers offer favorable terms only if you sign a 12- or 24-month contract. Additional fees may apply if you terminate the contract early.

Home Internet

Home internet is available in virtually all cities in the Czech Republic. Fiber-optic connections are most commonly used in new residential complexes, while cable or DSL internet is still found in older buildings.

Major providers:

• O2;
• Vodafone;
• T-Mobile;
• CETIN;
• Nej.cz.

Average cost of home internet:

• plans up to 100 Mbps — 300–500 Czech koruna (12–20 euros) per month;
• fiber-optic internet 250–500 Mbps — 500–800 Czech koruna (20–32 euros);
• packages with speeds over 1 Gbps — starting at 800 Czech koruna (32 euros) per month.

In many cases, providers offer additional services — TV, online movie theaters, or mobile service — as part of a single package.

Internet for Rental Housing

If you’re renting an apartment for a short term or frequently change your address, you should consider an alternative to traditional home internet—a mobile 5G router.

These devices operate via a mobile carrier’s SIM card and allow you to use high-speed internet without laying cables or signing long-term contracts. This is especially convenient for students, seasonal workers, and those who haven’t yet settled on a permanent place of residence.

Before signing any contract, it is recommended that you carefully review the connection terms, the contract duration, and possible penalties for early termination. This will help you avoid unexpected expenses after moving to the Czech Republic.

The Czech Republic has a well-developed system of preschool and school education, and children of foreign nationals legally residing in the country have the right to attend public schools on an equal footing with Czech citizens. For many Ukrainian families, the issue of education becomes one of the most important after moving, as the well-being of the entire family often depends on the child’s quick adaptation.

The Czech education system is considered one of the most stable in Central Europe. Education in public schools is free, and adaptation programs and language support are available for children from Ukraine.

Kindergartens

Public kindergartens (Mateřská škola) primarily accept children aged 3 and older. The final year before starting school is mandatory for all children residing in the Czech Republic, regardless of citizenship.

The greatest shortage of spots is observed in Prague, Brno, and other major cities. That is why it is recommended to submit applications in advance, as competition for spots in popular areas is quite high.

Cost of attending kindergarten:

• public kindergarten — 500–1,500 Czech koruna (20–60 euros) per month;
• meals — 1,000–2,000 Czech koruna (40–80 euros) per month;
• private kindergarten — 8,000 to 20,000 Czech koruna (320–800 euros) per month.

To enroll in a kindergarten, the following are usually required:

• the child’s passport or birth certificate;
• a document confirming legal residence in the Czech Republic;
• proof of address;
• a medical certificate;
• information on mandatory vaccinations.

It is important to note that having the required vaccinations is a key requirement for enrollment in a public kindergarten. This is why some Ukrainian families have to update their vaccination records after moving.

School Education

School education in the Czech Republic is compulsory and free. Children typically start school at the age of 6–7. Primary and basic education lasts 9 years and takes place at a single school (Základní škola).

After completing basic education, students can enroll in:

• gymnasiums;
• vocational schools;
• technical colleges;
• secondary specialized schools.

Most Ukrainian children can enroll in the school closest to their place of residence after moving.

To enroll in school, you usually need to provide:

• a birth certificate;
• a passport or other identification document;
• documents regarding previous education;
• proof of residence.

Education in public schools is free, but parents usually pay for:

• school meals — 800–1,500 Czech koruna (32–60 euros) per month;
• school supplies;
• school field trips;
• sports activities;
• clubs and extracurricular groups.

Many schools also offer after-school care programs (Školní družina). The cost of these programs typically ranges from 200 to 800 Czech korunas per month, depending on the city and the specific school.

Adaptation of Ukrainian Children

Since the start of the full-scale war, the Czech Republic has taken in tens of thousands of Ukrainian children, so many educational institutions already have significant experience working with international students.

For children from Ukraine, many schools offer:

• additional Czech language courses;
• preparatory language classes;
• individual support from teachers;
• assistance from school psychologists;
• and assistants for foreign children.

Since Ukrainian and Czech are both Slavic languages, most children adapt to their new environment fairly quickly. In many cases, within just a few months, students can communicate freely with their classmates and understand the course material.

At the same time, the support system for Ukrainian students is gradually changing. To learn about the new changes awaiting Ukrainian children in Czech schools and how state assistance is changing, read our article on changes for Ukrainian students in the Czech Republic.

International Schools and Private Education

For families planning long-term residency or seeking an English-language education, there are numerous international and private schools in the Czech Republic.

Tuition at these schools can range from:

• 100,000 to 300,000 Czech koruna (4,000–12,000 euros) per year;
• at prestigious international schools in Prague — over 500,000 Czech koruna (20,000 euros) per year.

Such institutions often follow the British, American, or International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, which can be an advantage for families planning to move to other countries in the future.

Extracurricular Education and Leisure

The Czech Republic offers a wide range of opportunities for children’s development outside of school. Most cities have:

• sports clubs;
• soccer and hockey clubs;
• music schools;
• art studios;
• language courses;
• children’s leisure centers.

The cost of classes at these clubs usually ranges from 500 to 3,000 Czech koruna (20–120 euros) per month, depending on the activity.

Many cities also have integration centers for Ukrainians. For example, in Prague, special support centers are being established for the Ukrainian community to assist with the adaptation, education, and socialization of children. You can learn more about these initiatives in our article on the opening of the Center of Unity for Ukrainians in Prague.

Thanks to free public education, adaptation programs, and a large Ukrainian community, the Czech Republic remains one of the most welcoming countries in Europe for families with children to relocate to.

The Czech healthcare system is considered one of the best in Central Europe. Most medical services are covered by public health insurance, but you must be insured to receive them.

How Health Insurance Works

The Czech Republic has a mandatory health insurance system. If a person is officially employed, insurance premiums are automatically deducted from their salary. For children, students, retirees, and certain social groups, the state pays the insurance premiums.

The largest insurance companies:

• VZP;
• OZP;
• VoZP;
• ČPZP;
• ZPMV ČR.

For employees, health insurance is part of the social security system. If you are officially employed, you do not need to apply separately for basic insurance.

Health Insurance for Entrepreneurs and Ukrainians

For entrepreneurs, the minimum insurance premium in 2026 is approximately 3,500–4,000 Czech koruna per month (140–160 euros).

Ukrainians with temporary protection have access to public health insurance; however, the rules for paying for it depend on their status, employment, and length of stay in the country. Read more details about important changes for Ukrainians in our article on new health insurance rules in the Czech Republic.

How to find a doctor

After obtaining insurance, you need to register with a doctor, who will serve as your primary care provider in the healthcare system.

Most often, you will need to choose:

• a family doctor;
• a pediatrician for children;
• a gynecologist for women;
• a dentist.

Some regions of the Czech Republic are experiencing a shortage of doctors. It is particularly difficult to find a dentist or family doctor who is accepting new patients. Therefore, do not put off finding a doctor after moving.

Cost of private medical care

Average cost of private medical services without insurance:

• general practitioner consultation — 800–1,500 CZK (32–60 EUR);
• specialist consultation — 1,000–3,000 CZK (40–120 EUR);
• dental checkup — 800–2,000 CZK (32–80 EUR);
• professional teeth cleaning — 1,000–2,500 CZK (40–100 EUR);
• MRI or CT scan — starting at 4,000 CZK (160 EUR).

Although the public healthcare system covers most necessary services, there may be waiting lists for certain tests or specialist consultations. That is why many foreigners also purchase private insurance.

For travel, relocation, or living abroad, it is also worth purchasing health insurance. On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can purchase an insurance policy online in just a few minutes. Such a policy provides financial protection in the event of illness, an accident, or the need for emergency medical care.

For more information on hospitals, emergency care, insurance, and medical services for foreigners, see the section Healthcare in the Czech Republic.

Moving to the Czech Republic involves more than just finding a place to live or sorting out paperwork. To live comfortably, it’s important to understand local rules, cultural norms, and the mindset of the locals. The Czech Republic is considered one of the safest countries in Europe, but breaking the law or disturbing the peace can result in hefty fines.

The most common fines

Foreigners most often encounter the following violations:

• riding public transportation without a ticket — up to 1,500 Czech koruna (about 60 euros);
• illegal parking — from 500 to 2,000 Czech koruna (20–80 euros);
• speeding — from 1,500 Czech koruna (60 euros) and up, depending on the violation;
• violation of waste sorting rules or unauthorized waste disposal — from several hundred to several thousand crowns;
• disturbance of public order or nighttime quiet hours — up to 10,000 Czech crowns (400 euros) in serious cases.

Nighttime Quiet Hours and Residential Rules

Czechs take residential rules quite seriously. Most residential buildings have a so-called nighttime quiet period from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. During this time, it is not recommended to carry out renovation work, play loud music, or hold noisy gatherings.

It is also important to follow waste sorting rules. In the Czech Republic, paper, plastic, glass, metal, organic waste, and mixed waste are collected separately. Bulky waste must be taken to special collection points and not left near the containers.

Learning Czech

To integrate successfully, it is advisable to learn Czech. Although many people in large cities speak English, knowledge of Czech significantly simplifies job searches and communication with government agencies, doctors, schools, and employers.

The following are available to foreigners:

• free integration courses;
• language programs from Foreigner Integration Centers;
• online Czech language courses;
• municipal adaptation programs.

Average cost of language courses:

• group classes — 3,000–8,000 Czech koruna (120–320 euros) per course;
• private lessons — starting at 300 Czech koruna (12 euros) per hour.

Support Centers for Ukrainians

The Ukrainian community in the Czech Republic is one of the largest among foreign communities. Many cities have Ukrainian cultural centers, civic organizations, and mutual aid groups where you can get information on employment, education, documents, or social services.

In Prague, separate initiatives for Ukrainians are also developing. Read more about one such project in our article on the Center of Unity for Ukrainians in Prague.

Leisure and Adaptation

The Czech Republic offers many opportunities for leisure. Most cities have sports clubs, libraries, cultural centers, museums, and community organizations.

Free festivals, concerts, and city events are held regularly in Prague, Brno, and Ostrava.

The following are available for families with children:

• municipal sports clubs;
• art clubs;
• children’s libraries;
• summer camps;
• integration programs for Ukrainian children.

Adjusting to life in the Czech Republic is usually quite comfortable thanks to cultural similarities, a high level of safety, and well-developed infrastructure. At the same time, knowing local rules, basic Czech, and the nuances of daily life will help you feel at home in your new surroundings more quickly and avoid unnecessary expenses or fines.

Services from Visit Ukraine for Ukrainians in the Czech Republic

Life in the Czech Republic has its own peculiarities—from bureaucracy to high rental costs. But with proper preparation and support, the adjustment process is much easier.

On Visit Ukraine, you can:

• Purchase health  insurance and a Green Card online
• Get legal advice
• Buy bus, train, or plane tickets
• Find up-to-date information on documents, regulations, and adaptation