Moving to Czech Republic

Moving Guide

Visa & Residence

Navigating the Czech Republic's visa and residence permit system is a critical first step, and the requirements vary significantly based on your nationality. Citizens of European Union (EU) member states, as well as those from Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, generally enjoy freedom of movement and do not require a visa for stays exceeding 90 days. They will, however, need to register their presence with the Foreign Police within 30 days of arrival if their stay is expected to be longer.

For non-EU citizens, a visa or residence permit is almost always required for stays longer than 90 days. Common routes to obtaining legal residency include:

• Work Permit/Employee Card: If you have a job offer from a Czech employer, this is the most common path. The employer typically plays a significant role in the application process.
• Family Reunification: If you are joining a family member who is already a legal resident of the Czech Republic.
• Study Visa: For those enrolled in an accredited educational institution.
• Business/Entrepreneur Visa: For individuals planning to establish or run a business in the Czech Republic.
• Other Residence Permits: There are various other categories, such as for scientific research or specific investment programs.

The application process usually involves submitting a range of documents, including proof of accommodation, financial means, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. It is absolutely essential to verify the most current and specific requirements with the official Czech government sources (e.g., the Ministry of Interior or the Czech embassy/consulate in your home country) well in advance of your move, as regulations can change.

Housing & Rental

Finding suitable housing in the Czech Republic, especially in popular cities like Prague or Brno, requires a strategic approach. Most people begin their search online through popular real estate portals. Local real estate agencies are also a common resource, offering a wider range of properties and assistance with the rental process, though they typically charge a commission (usually one month's rent plus VAT, paid by the tenant).

The typical rental process involves:

• Viewing Properties: Arrange viewings for properties that match your criteria.
• Lease Agreement: Once you find a suitable place, you will sign a lease agreement (nájemní smlouva). It's advisable to have this reviewed by someone fluent in Czech or a legal professional if you are not fully comfortable with the language.
• Security Deposit: A security deposit (kauce or jistota) is standard, usually equivalent to one or two months' rent, though legally it can be up to three months' rent. This is refundable at the end of your tenancy, provided the property is returned in good condition.
• First Month's Rent: You will typically pay the first month's rent upfront.
• Utilities: Utility costs (electricity, gas, water, internet) are often paid separately from the base rent, either directly to providers or as an advance payment to the landlord, with reconciliation annually.

For temporary accommodation upon arrival, options include short-term apartment rentals, serviced apartments, or hotels. This allows you time to conduct an in-person search for a long-term rental without immediate pressure. For long-term stays, standard lease agreements are usually for one year, often with an option to extend.

What Affects the Cost of Your Move

The total cost of relocating to the Czech Republic is influenced by several key factors. Understanding these can help you budget effectively for your international move.

• Volume and Weight of Belongings: The more items you move, the higher the cost. This is the primary determinant for shipping expenses, whether by air, sea, or road.
• Distance: The geographical distance between your current location and your new home in the Czech Republic directly impacts transportation costs.
• Seasonality: Moving during peak seasons (e.g., summer months, end-of-year holidays) can sometimes result in higher prices due to increased demand for moving services.
• Accessibility: Ease of access at both your origin and destination addresses affects labor and equipment needs. Factors like narrow streets, lack of parking, multiple flights of stairs, or the absence of an elevator can add to the cost.
• Type of Service: Choosing between different shipping methods (e.g., air freight for speed, sea freight for cost-effectiveness over long distances, or road transport within Europe) will significantly alter the price.
• Packing Services: Opting for professional packing services, where movers pack your entire household, adds convenience but also to the overall cost. Self-packing can save money but requires your time and effort.
• Insurance: Protecting your belongings during transit with moving insurance is highly recommended and will be an additional cost.
• Storage: If you require temporary storage for your items either before or after your move, this will incur extra charges.
• Additional Services: Specialized services like crating fragile items, disassembling/reassembling furniture, or handling unique items (e.g., pianos, artwork) will also affect the final price.

Due to the variability of these factors, exact prices for your move can only be determined after a detailed assessment of your specific needs. You can obtain precise cost estimates by requesting a free, no-obligation quote.

Timeline & Packing Tips

A well-structured timeline is crucial for a smooth international relocation. Here’s a general checklist, typically spanning 4-8 weeks before your move:

8 Weeks Before Moving Day:

• Declutter and Downsize: Go through all your belongings. Decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. This significantly reduces moving costs and effort.
• Research Visas/Permits: Reconfirm all necessary visa and residence permit requirements for the Czech Republic and begin gathering documents.
• Get Quotes: Contact reputable international moving companies for quotes.
• Create a Moving Binder/Folder: Keep all important documents (quotes, visa papers, contact info) in one secure place.

6 Weeks Before Moving Day:

• Book Movers: Confirm your chosen moving company and schedule your moving date.
• Arrange Temporary Accommodation: If you haven't secured long-term housing, book a short-term stay for your arrival in the Czech Republic.
• Medical Records: Gather medical and dental records, prescriptions, and pet vaccination records.
• School Records: If moving with children, obtain their school records.

4 Weeks Before Moving Day:

• Notify Utilities: Arrange for the disconnection of utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) at your current home and plan for connection in the Czech Republic (if possible in advance).
• Change of Address: Notify banks, credit card companies, subscriptions, and government agencies of your upcoming change of address.
• Start Packing Non-Essentials: Begin packing items you won't need in the weeks leading up to the move (e.g., books, off-season clothing, decorative items).
• Valuables and Important Documents: Set aside a separate bag for essentials you'll carry with you (passports, visas, money, medications, jewelry, important papers).

2 Weeks Before Moving Day:

• Confirm Travel Arrangements: Finalize flights, transportation, and accommodation for your arrival.
• Pet Preparations: If moving with pets, ensure all veterinary checks and travel requirements are met.
• Finalize Packing: Continue packing, leaving only immediate necessities unpacked.
• Clean Out Fridge/Pantry: Start consuming perishable food items.

1 Week Before Moving Day:

• Confirm with Movers: Reconfirm arrival times and any last-minute details.
• Pack Essentials Bag: Ensure your "first night" bag for the Czech Republic is packed with toiletries, a change of clothes, and necessary documents.
• Disconnect Appliances: If self-packing, disconnect and prepare appliances for transport.
• Clean Your Current Home: Begin a thorough clean of your old residence.

Moving Day:

• Supervise Loading: Be present to answer questions and supervise the loading of your belongings.
• Final Walk-Through: Do a final check of your old home to ensure nothing is left behind.
• Hand Over Keys: Return keys to your landlord or agent.

For a detailed breakdown of costs tailored to your unique situation, request a free quote on relocation123.com today.

Visas, immigration & documents

Moving to this country often involves visas, residence permits, document translation/legalization and customs paperwork. Our verified partners handle the move itself; for visa or immigration help, send the request below and we'll point you the right way.

• Residence permit / visa (work, study, family)
• Document translation & apostille
• Customs clearance for personal effects
• Travel & goods insurance

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Customs & Import Rules

Moving to Czech Republic: Your Essential Customs & Import Guide

Relocating to the Czech Republic? Navigating customs can seem daunting, but with the right information, you can ensure a smooth transition for your personal belongings. This guide provides a clear overview of the import process for household goods and special items.

If you're relocating as a non-EU citizen

If you are moving to the Czech Republic from outside the European Union, your used household goods and personal effects can generally be imported duty-free. This applies if you meet specific residency and ownership criteria.

What you'll need

• Photocopy of your passport (main page and all relevant pages with stamps and visas).
• Proof of residence in your origin country for at least 12 months before moving to the Czech Republic (e.g., visa, housing contract, employer confirmation).
• Proof of residence in the Czech Republic (e.g., copy of housing contract for a minimum of 12 months, copy of work permit, employee card, residence permit, or long-term visa if available).
• Original Power of Attorney authorizing your removal company to represent you at customs.
• Company statement or work contract confirming your employment in the Czech Republic.
• Original and duly signed Application for Exemption from Customs Duty.
• Inventory list of all items.

Good to know

• Goods must have been owned and used by you at your former residence for at least six months prior to shipping.
• The goods must be intended for the same purpose at your new residence.
• Duty and tax relief is granted only if your normal place of residence was outside the EU for a continuous period of at least 12 months before shipping.
• Personal property and household goods must enter the EU within 12 months from the date you establish your normal place of residence in the EU.
• Within 12 months of importation, goods cannot be lent, used as security, rented out, or sold without notifying customs.
• Customs officials may request additional documents.
• English documents, such as a lease contract, are generally accepted.

If you're an EU or Czech citizen returning from outside the EU

Returning EU or Czech citizens who have lived outside the EU for at least 12 months can import their used household goods and personal effects duty-free, provided they meet specific conditions similar to non-EU citizens.

What you'll need

• Photocopy of your passport (main pages and all relevant pages with stamps and visas).
• Proof of residence in your origin country, demonstrating a stay outside the EU for at least 12 months before establishing residence in the EU (e.g., visa, housing contract, employer confirmation).
• Proof of residence in the EU (e.g., copy of EU residence permit, EU ID card, or registration with the Municipal house).
• Copy of housing contract (minimum 12 months rental period) or purchase contract for your home.
• Original and duly signed Application for Exemption from Customs Duty.
• Company statement confirming your employment contract.
• Original Power of Attorney authorizing your removal company to represent you at customs.
• Inventory list.

Good to know

• Goods must have been owned and used by you at your former residence for at least six months prior to shipping.
• The goods must be intended for the same purpose at your new residence.
• Duty and tax relief is granted only if your normal place of residence was outside the EU for a continuous period of at least 12 months prior to shipping.
• Personal property and household goods must enter the EU within 12 months from the date you establish your normal place of residence in the EU.
• Within 12 months of importation, goods cannot be lent, used as security, rented out, or sold without notifying customs.
• Customs officials may request additional documents.
• English documents, such as a lease contract, are generally accepted.

If you're a diplomat relocating

Diplomatic removals of personal effects are generally duty-free. Special procedures and documents are required for these types of moves.

What you'll need

• Photocopy of passport.
• Original Power of Attorney authorizing your removal company to represent you at customs.
• Inventory lists.
• Statement from the Embassy confirming your assignment in the Czech Republic.
• Import Declaration for diplomatic goods or vehicles (form).
• Diplomatic ID card issued by the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Good to know

• Within 12 months of importation, goods cannot be lent, used as security, rented out, or sold without notifying customs.
• Import Declaration for diplomatic goods (two copies) and Power of Attorney are required in original.
• Import of alcohol is permitted for diplomats; contact your local embassy for quota information.
• Customs officials may request additional documents.

Bringing special items

Vehicles

Automobiles and motorcycles can be imported duty-free as part of your household goods move, provided they meet specific conditions.

What you'll need

• A form stating the official/factory name and type of vehicle, manufacturing number (VIN), vintage (year of manufacture), type of fuel, and weight.
• Original and legible copy of the invoice or other confirmation of car purchase (will be returned).
• Original copy of the registration book or certificate of title (will be returned).
• All the same documents required for importing household goods and personal effects (see above sections).

Good to know

• The vehicle must have been in your possession and used at your former residence for at least six months prior to shipping.
• It must be intended for the same purpose at your new residence.
• Duty and tax relief is granted only if your normal place of residence was outside the EU for a continuous period of at least 12 months.
• The vehicle must enter the EU within 12 months from the date you establish your normal place of residence in the EU.
• Within 12 months of importation, vehicles cannot be lent, used as security, rented out, or sold without notifying customs.
• Vehicles can be sold after one year from the date of importation.
• Registering vehicles older than 8 years might be difficult, with exceptions for vehicles over 30 years old, which can be registered as old-timers.

Pets

Bringing your pet to the Czech Republic is duty-free, but requires specific veterinary documentation.

What you'll need

• Veterinary import permission issued by the State Vet Office in Prague, Czech Republic.
• Veterinary certificate issued by the State Vet Office in the animal's country of origin.
• International vaccination certificate.

Good to know

• Customs officials may request additional documents.

Restricted & prohibited items

Certain items like firearms have specific regulations for import. While duty-free as part of household goods, a license is required.

What you'll need

• A firearms accompanying certificate issued by the Embassy of the Czech Republic in your country of origin.

Good to know

• A license is required for temporary import, export, or transit of Category A, B, or C weapons or ammunition.
• The license is issued as a firearms accompanying certificate.
• For transit, the certificate can be issued by Czech embassies upon request for natural persons and legal entities.
• For hunting or marksmanship contests, if you hold a European gun license, police units at frontier crossings may also issue the certificate.
• EU citizens with a European gun license for transferred weapons do not need a firearms accompanying certificate if they declare their travel purpose.
• Travelers from non-EU countries to an EU Member State must submit a license from the appropriate authorities of each relevant Member State they intend to travel through or to with such weapons or ammunition.

Alcohol & tobacco

Alcohol and tobacco are dutiable items and there is no allowance for duty and tax-free import in unaccompanied shipments.

What you'll need

• Same documents as for household goods and personal effects.

Good to know

• Import of alcohol is allowed for diplomats; contact your local embassy for information on quotas.

Frequently asked questions

Can I import my household goods duty-free?
Yes, generally, if you've owned and used them for at least six months, lived outside the EU for 12 months, and import them within 12 months of establishing Czech residence.

What if I want to sell my imported items soon after arriving?
Within 12 months of importation, goods cannot be lent, used as security, rented out, or sold without prior notification to customs authorities.

Are there any time limits for importing my belongings?
Duty and tax relief is granted only for personal property and household goods entered into the EU within 12 months from the date you establish your normal place of residence in the EU.

Will Czech customs accept documents in English?
Yes, English is generally accepted by customs for many documents, such as lease contracts.

Do I need original documents for customs clearance?
Yes, an original Power of Attorney and an original, duly signed Application for Exemption from Customs Duty are required.

Are there any age restrictions for importing vehicles?
It might be difficult to register vehicles older than 8 years, though vehicles over 30 years old can be registered as old-timers.

For personalized assistance with your move to the Czech Republic, please contact relocation123.com.

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