The Czech Republic, is a country rich in history, traditions and a vibrant culture that has developed over centuries. For those who are thinking of emigrating there, the country offers not only breathtaking scenery, but also a fascinating cultural experience. From historic sites to art and music to delicious food and festive celebrations, there is much to discover. An openness to new experiences and a willingness to immerse yourself in the local culture will undoubtedly lead to an enriching life experience in this beautiful country.
Historical roots: The culture of the Czech Republic is deeply rooted in its eventful history. Prague, the country’s capital, is often referred to as the “Golden City” and is known for its well-preserved architecture from various eras, including Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance. Prague Castle, one of the largest castles in the world, stands as a symbol of the country’s history and houses St. Vitus Cathedral and the Royal Palace.
Art and music: The Czech Republic has an impressive tradition in art and music. Famous personalities such as the composer Antonín Dvořák and the writer Franz Kafka come from this country. Prague is a center for art galleries, museums and theater shows. The Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and the National Theater are renowned institutions that enrich the country’s cultural scene.
Culinary delights: Czech cuisine reflects the diversity of the region. Dumplings, meat dishes such as goulash and trdelník (a sweet pastry) are just a few examples of the country’s delicious dishes. Beer brewing has a long tradition in the Czech Republic, and the famous Pilsner beer comes from here. A visit to a traditional Czech inn is a great way to experience the local cuisine.
Celebrations and traditions: Czech Republic celebrates a variety of festivals and traditions. Easter, Christmas and Carnival are important religious and cultural events. A unique festival is Independence Day on October 28, which celebrates the founding of Czechoslovakia in 1918. Another famous event is the Easter market in Prague, which offers traditional crafts and culinary specialties.
Hospitality and social norms: Czechs are known for their hospitality and politeness. It is customary to shake hands and say “Dobrý den” (Good day) or “Dobrý večer” (Good evening) in greeting. Respect for older people and cultural traditions is also important.
The climate in the Czech Republic is temperate continental and can vary from region to region due to its geographical location and topographical diversity. Thus, the climate in the mountains tends to be cooler and there is also more precipitation, while the lower altitudes have a more continental climate.
Spring begins in March, which can still be quite cool. Then, from April, the temperatures become milder. Nature comes to life and the landscape is characterized by blooming flowers and trees.
In summer, average temperatures are usually between 20°C and 30°C, which is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and exploring.
While September is still very mild, from October already begins the foliage color and nature changes rapidly. The foliage color is spectacular and many regions offer impressive views of the changing nature.
Winter in the Czech Republic is cold and snowy. Temperatures can drop below freezing, and snow is common in many parts of the country. December, January and February are the winter months when skiing and other winter sports activities are very popular in the mountain regions, such as the Krkonoše Mountains.
The main language spoken in the Czech Republic is Czech, which is the official language of the country. Czech belongs to the West Slavic group of Slavic languages and is closely related to Slovak, Polish and Sorbian.
Since the Czech Republic is a popular tourist destination and has a certain degree of internationality, many younger people also speak English, especially in urban areas, tourist attractions and in the business world. German is also understood and spoken in some regions, especially in border areas, as there are historical and cultural links between the Czech Republic and German-speaking countries.
There are various school systems in the Czech Republic, covering education from elementary school to higher education. Here is an overview of the main levels of the education system in the Czech Republic:
Education in the Czech Republic is compulsory until the age of 15. The education system is designed to provide a broad and well-rounded education while offering the opportunity to specialize in specific fields. If you intend to emigrate to the Czech Republic and have children, you should find out about the educational opportunities and requirements in advance.
Homeschooling and Online School
Homeschooling is possible in the Czech Republic, but requires permission from local education authorities. To obtain approval for homeschooling, parents must apply and demonstrate that they are able to provide an adequate education for their children at home. The curriculum must meet state educational standards. Approval for homeschooling is not automatic and depends on several factors, including the parent’s reason for choosing homeschooling and the quality of the education plan.
Online training or distance learning is also possible in the Czech Republic. Some schools offer online classes or combinations of face-to-face and online classes. However, it is important to ensure that the online education institution you choose is accredited by the relevant educational authorities and meets the state’s educational standards.
The health care system in the Czech Republic is generally well developed and provides comprehensive medical care for the country’s citizens. The system is based on social health insurance, with citizens and, in many cases, employers paying into the health care system.
Health insurance: In the Czech Republic, health insurance is compulsory for all residents. Health insurance is divided into two main categories:
Immigrant Health Care: Immigrants to the Czech Republic are generally entitled to use public health insurance as long as they meet the necessary requirements. This may vary depending on the type of residence permit and employment status. In some cases, there may be a waiting period before immigrants are eligible for public health insurance.
It is important to note that there are no general differences in health care coverage between natives and immigrants in the Czech Republic, as long as they meet the necessary requirements for participation in health insurance. The quality of medical care in the Czech Republic is generally high, with modern medical facilities and well-trained professionals.
When immigrating to the Czech Republic, there are certain requirements regarding vaccinations and medical certificates that may vary depending on the country of origin and residency status.
The Czech Republic does not usually require specific vaccinations as a prerequisite for immigration. However, before entering the country, it is recommended to make sure that you have the recommended vaccinations according to international health standards. This could include vaccinations against diseases such as tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis A and B, and possibly vaccinations against measles, mumps and rubella.
It is possible that the requirements for vaccinations and medical certificates vary depending on the country of origin. The Czech Republic may have special requirements for citizens from countries with higher risk of disease. Therefore, it is important to consult the Embassy or Consulate of the Czech Republic in your home country for accurate information on the requirements for your specific situation.
The tax system in the Czech Republic is progressive and includes various types of taxes that must be paid by individuals and companies. Here is an overview of the most important aspects of the tax system:
1. income tax: income tax in the Czech Republic is progressive, which means that the tax rate increases with rising income. The current maximum income tax rate is 22% for tax year 2023. There are several income brackets with different tax rates.
2. value added tax (VAT): Value added tax (VAT) is a consumption tax levied on the sale of goods and services. The normal VAT rate is 21%. There are also reduced VAT rates of 15% and 10% for certain goods and services such as food, medical products and books.
3. corporate tax: corporate tax is 19% for companies and legal entities. However, there are certain incentives and exemptions that may apply to certain investments and industries.
4. social security contributions: Employers and employees must pay social security contributions to cover various social benefits such as health insurance, pension insurance and unemployment insurance. The contributions are deducted from the salary and co-financed by employers.
5. capital gains tax: capital gains such as dividends, interest and gains from the sale of securities are subject to a capital gains tax of 15%. However, there are exceptions and reductions for certain types of investment income.
6. real estate tax: real estate owners must pay a real estate tax, which is based on the value of the property and also varies by municipality.
The economy of the Czech Republic is one of the most advanced and developed in Central and Eastern Europe. It is based on a mix of industry, services and agriculture. Here are some key areas that shape the Czech economy:
Economic forecasts in the Czech Republic
Economic momentum is being dampened by inflation and slower growth in orders. The impact of the Russian war of aggression on Ukraine led to a mild technical recession in the Czech economy in the second half of 2022 and continues to affect it in 2023. In the first quarter, gross domestic product (GDP) stagnated compared with the previous quarter, recording a real growth rate of zero percent. According to the Czech Statistical Office, there was a year-on-year decline of 0.4 percent.
The biggest drag on growth was consumption, as inflation, which was still above 11 percent in May, although gradually easing from a high level. However, the inflation rate is expected to reach single digits in the second half of the year, providing a positive stimulus for economic activity.
As far as economic development is concerned, the spring forecasts predict real GDP growth of 0.2 to 0.5 percent for 2023. This would mean that economic development would largely stagnate. The reasons for this are declining private consumption and reduced inventory levels. On the positive side, public consumption, investment and net exports are counteracting the downward trend. A stronger upturn is expected for 2024: The European Commission estimates a GDP increase of 2.4 percent, while the Czech Ministry of Finance and the central bank even assume 3 percent.
The price level in the Czech Republic is generally below the average of EU countries. The Czech Republic is known for offering a relatively affordable standard of living compared to many Western European countries. This applies to both consumer goods and services.
However, in terms of price levels for various goods and services, there may be differences within the Czech Republic and in comparison with other EU countries. For example, prices in big cities like Prague can tend to be higher than in rural areas. In addition, certain goods, such as imported products, may be slightly more expensive.
In general, countries in Western Europe, especially the Scandinavian countries and Switzerland, have higher price levels compared to countries in Central and Eastern Europe, including the Czech Republic. This is due to factors such as higher costs of living, wages and taxes.
If you are planning to emigrate or travel to the Czech Republic, you will probably find that the price level for many goods and services is quite favorable compared to other EU countries. However, there may be differences depending on individual preferences, location, and the type of products or services you need.
For current prices please refer to the website Cost of Living.
The price level of real estate in the Czech Republic is generally lower than in many other Western European countries, especially in large cities. Here is some information about the real estate price level in the Czech Republic compared to other European countries:
Real estate acquisition when emigrating to the Czech Republic
As a foreigner, it is generally possible to purchase real estate in the Czech Republic. Czech law allows foreigners to buy real estate, including apartments and houses. However, there are some rules and regulations that you must follow:
EU citizens: For citizens of the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA), there are generally no special restrictions on the purchase of real estate in the Czech Republic. They usually have the same right as Czech citizens to buy real estate.
Non-EU citizens: Non-EU citizens can also purchase real estate in the Czech Republic, but they are subject to certain restrictions and often have to apply for additional permits. In some cases, the purchase of real estate may be subject to certain conditions, such as the use of the property as a primary residence.
Agricultural land: Special regulations apply to the acquisition of agricultural land. As a rule, both EU and non-EU citizens need a permit to acquire agricultural land.
We will be happy to assist you with our real estate offer.
The Czech Republic has become an attractive location for business start-ups, both for domestic and international entrepreneurs. The country’s dynamic economy, favorable geographic location and support for business activities have made it a popular choice for starting new businesses. This article takes a look at the different types of businesses in the Czech Republic and highlights the opportunities available to immigrants.
Corporate forms in the Czech Republic:
Advantages of starting a business in the Czech Republic:
Business creation for immigrants:
Immigrants have the opportunity to start a business in the Czech Republic and benefit from the above mentioned advantages. The legal requirements are similar to those for domestic founders. However, immigrants must ensure that they have the necessary residence permits to conduct business activities in the country.
It is advisable to be well informed before starting a business and possibly seek professional assistance from local lawyers or business consultants. They can assist you in choosing the appropriate business form, registration and other legal aspects
As an EU citizen, of course, you do not need a visa.
As a non-EU citizen, on the other hand, you usually need a visa to enter and live in the Czech Republic, either temporarily or permanently. The type of visa depends on the planned activities, such as studying, working, starting a business, or reuniting with a family. For non-EU citizens who wish to stay in the Czech Republic for more than 90 days, a long-term visa is required in most cases.
For longer-term stays, such as study, work or family reunification, a residence permit is often necessary. Depending on the purpose of stay, this can be a student visa, a work visa or a family reunification visa. The process for applying for a residence permit can be complex and often requires proof of financial resources, housing, and other relevant documents.
It is important to note that immigration regulations are subject to change, so I strongly recommend consulting official sources at the Czech Ministry of the Interior or consulates for accurate and up-to-date visa and residence permit application requirements.
The Czech Republic is generally considered a safe country with a low crime rate compared to other European countries. The security situation in the Czech Republic is good in most regions, and most visitors and residents can feel safe. Nevertheless, it is important to consider some aspects:
Demonstrations and riots: Demonstrations in the Czech Republic are usually peaceful and well supervised by the police. Most demonstrations are directed against political or social issues and proceed without riots. However, it is recommended to avoid demonstrations and pay attention to up-to-date information from reliable sources and local authorities to keep abreast of possible unrest.
As everywhere in the world, there can be no absolute guarantee of safety in the Czech Republic. It is advisable to follow basic safety practices such as avoiding risky areas at night, traveling in groups and using licensed cabs.
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