LIVING IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC

 

This website contains only basic information about living in the Czech Republic. For more detailed information you can download our Guide to studying and living in the Czech Republic or the Information Booklet for Foreign Nationals in the Czech Republic.  

Entry formalities

Information regarding alien visa issues is available at the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or we recommend you to turn to the Czech diplomatic mission in your country.

Medical Insurance

As a result of the Czech Republic's accession to the European Union, students from EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland are entitled to the provision of necessary and urgent health care free-of-charge. It is only necessary that they have a certified E 128 form from their home country or a European Health Insurance Card, which replaces the paper forms needed.

Students from non-EU country, staying in the Czech Republic for less than 3 months should have a supplementary travel health insurance. They should get one before they leave the country of their origin.

Students from non-EU countries, staying in the Czech Republic longer than 3 months must contract an insurance with an insurance company, which is licensed to operate the insurance in the territory of the Czech Republic according to a special legal regulation, i.e.:

  • national insurance companies and insurance companies from non-EU countries that were provided by the Czech National Bank with a licence to carry on insurance business;
  • insurance companies from other EU countries, whose operations in the Czech Republic are based on the right to set up branch offices or are based on the freedom to provide services temporarily.

It is recommended to consult the Czech embassy or consulate and verify whether the insurance meets the requirements for an application for a visa or residence permit for stays longer than 90 days. 

Living costs

Expenses covering the stay are substantially lower than in any west European country. Expenses covering food, accomodation, and public transportation come altogether to about 350-750 USD/month. Naturally, it all depends on the student's lifestyle and on how much he/she really wants to spend. The prices can also vary considerably depending on where you stay. 

The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is the best card for all students. It allows cardholders to get student discounts for transport, restaurants, cinemas, museums, exhibitions and concerts. In principal, students coming to the Czech Republic should obtain an ISIC card at their home university or in their home country.

Work

Foreign students (visa holders) can be employed, but must have a job permit. Job permit is not required only if the student (max. 26 years old) works not longer than 7 consecutive calendar days or 30 days a year in total. For more information go to the website of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs.

Student organizations

 

Erasmus Student Network Czech Republic

ESN CZ connects and supports international student clubs in the Czech Republic which help international students coming to study at Czech universities. The organization is represented in 6 towns:

 

AIESEC Czech Republic

AIESEC CZ is a part of the world's largest youth-run organization. AIESEC offers young people the opportunity to participate in international internships, experience leadership and participate in a global learning environment.

 

IAESTE Czech Republic

IAESTE CZ is a student exchange organization that provides students of science, engineering, technology and the applied arts with paid, course-related, technical training abroad.