state department travel czech republic

Entry to the Country

With or without a visa.

  The list of countries whose citizens may travel for a short term to the Czech Republic with only a valid travel document, without a visa, can be found  here . The list of countries whose citizens must have a relevant valid visa to enter the Czech Republic can be found  here .

Travelling with animals

In order to travel to the Czech Republic with dogs, cats and ferrets, you must have:

• A pet passport , i.e. a uniform document throughout the whole of the EU which is issued by a vet.
• A condition for issuance of the passport is  marking of the animal  – it must be tattooed (legibly);  marking with an electronic chip  is obligatory from 2011 onwards. This is performed by a vet.
• The animal must be  vaccinated   against rabies  in accordance with the legislation of the European Union, i.e. the first vaccination must take place from three months of age.

Tariff quotas

Customs checks at state borders ended on the date the Czech Republic joined the EU. Checks have remained only at the outer borders of the EU. This is why you will only come across checks at  international airports .

Exemption of goods brought into the EU from customs duty, VAT and consumer tax relates to goods imported occasionally for  personal use .

Information  about amounts which you can bring into the Czech Republic and which goods are  exempt from customs duty, VAT and consumer tax  can be found  here .  

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Czechia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Czechia.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Czechia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Czechia. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Czechia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are not commonly found in Czechia.

If rabies exposures occur while in Czechia, rabies vaccines are typically available throughout most of the country.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Tick-borne Encephalitis

For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas

TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.

TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found. 

Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet.

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Czechia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Although Czechia is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Czechia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately.  Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
• Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Czechia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Make sure there are seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Czechia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Czechia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Pining for Prague? Czech Republic is now open to fully vaccinated US tourists

Aug 24, 2021 • 2 min read

The Czech Republic is now open to vaccinated US tourists for non-essential travel Getty Images

People from the US are now permitted to travel to the Czech Republic for non-essential travel, provided they are fully vaccinated and can prove it. However, there are currently no direct flights from the US to the Czech Republic, so if you're planning a trip here's how to make it happen.

What entry requirements are in place?

As of August 23, fully vaccinated travelers from the US can visit the Czech Republic. Travelers must show proof of vaccination to enter, which is the white card from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The vaccination must be approved by the European Medicines Agency (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Covishield or Johnson & Johnson doses) to be recognized for travel there. Travelers are also required to fill in a Passenger Locator Form before boarding their flight.

How do I get from the US to the Czech Republic?

There are currently no direct flights from the US to the Czech Republic according to the US Embassy , so travelers who wish to visit will have to transit through another country. That will likely be another European nation as most flights between the two countries connect there. The Czech Republic is open to travelers from the EU and Schengen Zone countries without restrictions, so you shouldn't have to go through any additional measures. That said, it's important to check the entry rules from the country you are transiting through here before you book your flights as the rules can change suddenly.

Read more: 10 things you have to do in Prague

What COVID-19 restrictions are in place?

Once you're in the Czech Republic you'll be able to enjoy the country's remarkable architecture, history, culture and attractions like the Charles Bridge and the vibrant beer gardens, cafes and restaurants of Prague without too many restrictions. However, when checking into your hotel you'll need to show your vaccination certificate. The certificate is also required from people visiting museums or attending public events. Face masks are also required in busy public spaces where social distancing isn't possible and in shops, airports and on public transport. Only the KN95 or FFP2 respirator masks are accepted. Cloth masks won't be.

Read more:  Spending diary: what I spent on a two-day trip to Prague

Is the Czech Republic accepting travelers from other non-EU countries?

Yes. In addition to the US, the Czech Republic is accepting fully vaccinated tourists from the UK, Canada, Israel, Jordan, Pakistan, Brazil, Australia and New Zealand among others. You can see the entry requirements for individual countries on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

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Czech Republic Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to the Czech Republic

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Czech Republic entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to the Czech Republic from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Czech Republic.

Can I travel to the Czech Republic if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter the Czech Republic without restrictions.

Can I travel to the Czech Republic without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter the Czech Republic without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter the Czech Republic?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering the Czech Republic.

Can I travel to the Czech Republic without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in the Czech Republic?

Mask usage in the Czech Republic is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in the Czech Republic?

Restaurants in the Czech Republic are open. Bars in the Czech Republic are .

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Business Customs

Czechs are typically more reserved than Americans, especially when meeting people for the first time. They do not always smile as a social greeting as Americans, the British, and many other Westerners do. This can create a false impression that Czechs are cold or unfriendly. Czechs are more formal than Americans and a serious demeanor is regarded as a sign of respect for the visitor and the business being transacted. The Czech language uses the formal and informal forms of “you” so even if you do not speak the language, consider the fact that it is normal course for Czechs to refer to new people in a more formal manner.

Business partners do not usually call each other by their first names; however, Czech businesses are becoming more comfortable with informality when dealing with foreigners. Most Czechs will not be insulted if their foreign visitors address them by their first names early in a relationship. Building relationships in the Czech Republic is important and takes considerable time and commitment. An attempt to accomplish business with a flurry of quick meetings and a barrage of emails is more likely to result in failure. Czechs prefer to get to know you, to learn about your background and your company, and then, if they are comfortable with you, get down to deal-making. Most Czechs want to build long-term, two-way business relationships and will be put off by too much emphasis on an immediate sale.

Because the Czech Republic is a small country where industry leaders know each other well, word-of-mouth reputation is extremely important, especially where business and government intersect. News about you - good or bad - can spread quickly. Political and business circles often interlink, and at higher levels, it is not uncommon for individuals to move from a ministry job to the private sector and back to the government over a period of several years period. It is therefore important to maintain strong contacts.

It is customary to be punctual or even early for appointments and engagements. It is best to start arranging meetings several weeks before your visit, as Czechs are reluctant to arrange impromptu meetings.

Czechs are very gracious and will open a meeting with the offer of a beverage when they host business visitors. It is polite to accept at least a glass of water. Business luncheons are normally more formal than in the United States. Even if dining alone with one business contact, expect to order multiple courses and do not expect the lunch to be finished in less than two hours. Rushing through lunch is considered ill-mannered. Working breakfasts are not common in the Czech Republic. Although the Czechs regard the custom as an amusing American oddity, they are also very amenable to attending, as an offer of food is considered gracious, and the typical Czech working day starts early.

Travel Advisory

For the most up-to-date information on travel advisories and warnings, always check the State Department Consular Information Sheet for the Czech Republic

Strikes and demonstrations do occur in the Czech Republic, and authorities are generally well-prepared and handle disruptions in a professional manner. Protect your security, avoid demonstrations whenever possible, and bear in mind that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful may turn violent.

The Czech Republic generally has little crime. However, you should still take precautions against becoming a victim of crime.

Emergency Contacts

• Emergencies: dial 112
• Police: dial 158
• Firefighters: dial 150
• Rescue and First Aid: dial 112

Visa requirements

The Czech Republic is a party to the Schengen Agreement . Visit the Embassy of the Czech Republic’s website for the most current visa and entry requirement information for U.S. citizens and its FAQ section on Schengen visas.

• Passports should be valid for at least six months beyond the arrival date into the Schengen area to avoid difficulties entering and traveling within the Schengen zone. For additional details about travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our Schengen fact sheet.
• You may enter the Czech Republic for up to 90 days for tourism, business, study, and most other purposes (except work) without a visa. This is counted along with presence in all Schengen countries for up to 90 days out of any 180-day period. 
• You will need a visa for longer stays or to work for any period of time in the Czech Republic. When a visa is required, submit your application to the nearest Czech diplomatic mission at least 3-4 months in advance of traveling to the Czech Republic. The U.S. Embassy cannot help speed up foreign visa applications. 
• The Czech Government requires travelers to be able to show proof, upon request, of sufficient finances to cover the cost of a traveler’s stay.
• You must also carry proof of a valid medical insurance policy contracted for payment of all costs for hospitalization and medical treatment while in the Czech Republic.

U.S. companies that require travel of foreign businesspersons to the United States are advised that security evaluations are handled via an interagency process. Visa applicants should go to the following link(s):

• State Department Visa Website  
• U.S. Embassy Prague Visa Website

Currency exchange is widely available, and most businesses will accept Visa and Mastercard networked credit and debit cards. Due to the pandemic, contactless payment has become widely available as well. Local currency (koruna) dispensing ATMs accept most U.S. bankcards. Please note the euro has not yet been adopted in the Czech Republic.

Telecommunications/Electronics

The Czech telecommunications infrastructure was updated to meet EU requirements before accession and is comparable to Western Europe. There is excellent coverage throughout the country. Internet access in Prague and other major cities and towns is readily available and is offered in most hotels. Additionally, Wi-Fi can be found free of charge in many cafes and bars in major cities. Local telephone and mail services are good, reliable and inexpensive. U.S. long distance operators serve Prague through direct access numbers.

• Country code: 420 + number
• Call to U.S. from Czech Republic: 001 + number

The Czech Republic uses a 220 current. Adaptors are required unless European round plugs are already part of the device.

Transportation

Visitors will find travel in the Czech Republic to be like travel in Western Europe, except that costs are lower, particularly in the low season (November through April).

In central Prague, visitors will often find walking faster (and more relaxing) than traveling by car. The city also has excellent public transit. For trips outside Prague, we recommend hiring a car. The domestic train network is extensive but can be slow.

Uber is available in Prague, but the local app-based taxi service Liftago is more reliable and available in more cities throughout the Czech Republic outside of the capital.

The official language of the Czech Republic is Czech, part of the Slavic language family. Czechs have strong linguistic abilities. Younger Czechs are more likely to speak English whereas many older Czechs (especially those living outside Prague) speak Russian or German as second and third languages. In general, about half of likely business partners will speak good (or at least basic) English. The rate of spoken English is much higher in Prague. Basic English is widely spoken in most hotels and restaurants.

Czech is an extremely difficult language to learn. It is helpful to learn a few basic phrases to get around restaurants, hotels, and airports. For complex business negotiations, English-speaking interpreters are readily available.

Prague has good Western-style medical clinics and English-speaking doctors and dentists. For major operations and complicated illnesses, most Westerners return to the United States or go to Western Europe. We recommend travel insurance sufficient to cover costs of medical evacuation out of the country. Prague and most major outlying cities have pharmacies that stock many Western medicines or that can order specialized prescriptions in 24 hours. U.S. prescription drugs often have different names in Europe. Travelers should carry prescriptions noting generic names. Keep all prescription drugs in original containers to avoid problems with Customs officials.

Czech Emergency Number              112

U.S. Embassy                                    +420 257 022 000

Canadian Medical Center                +420 235 360 133

Motol Hospital                                  +420 224 433 681; +420 224 433 682

Central Military Hospital                 +420 973 208 333

Local time, business hours, and holidays: Local time is Central European Time. A typical Czech business day is from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, with a break for lunch. The workweek is 40 hours (Monday through Friday).

When scheduling meetings or events to which Czech business guests are invited, it is best to avoid Friday afternoon during summertime (and Friday morning, if possible), as many Czechs have country houses to which they travel as early as possible on Friday. Czechs regard weekends and holidays as near sacrosanct family time, and they avoid allowing business to intrude on this time. As is the case in much of Europe, it is harder to make business appointments and contacts in the Czech Republic during July and August and close to major holidays, such as Christmas or Easter. Unlike in the United States, if a Czech holiday falls on the weekend, the government does not observe that holiday on the preceding Friday or on the following Monday, and no workday is taken off in observance of that holiday. A full list of Czech holidays (as well as U.S. holidays) can be found on the Embassy Prague website .

Temporary Entry of Materials and Personal Belongings

We are not aware of any difficulties when bringing computers, software, exhibition materials, or personal belongings into the country.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Step-by-Step Guide on Obligations to Enter the Czech Republic

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the state of emergency has been extended until 22 January 2021 . The current restrictions come along with it. What these restrictions affecting the entry to the Czech Republic are, becomes perhaps one of the biggest questions on everyone’s mind.

Travel to the Czech Republic Only for Essential Reasons

First of all, you need to know that if your place of residence is in the territory of the Czech Republic, or if you’re a holder of a valid long-term visa , a long-term, temporary, or permanent residence permit issued by the Czech Republic, you will have no problem entering the country. Otherwise, you need to have an essential purpose , such as travelling to work or for business purposes, essential family travel, travelling to healthcare facilities, etc.

APPLY FOR YOUR RESIDENCE PERMIT NOW

Red, Orange, or Green?

Besides an essential purpose, you need to know from which risk zone you’re coming from. Since January 18, the Czech Republic has updated the traffic-light map, again.

If you’re coming from the orange or green zone, there’s no specific obligation related to your arrival in the country. However, if you’re coming from the red zone, there are two things you must do.

• First, fill the Public Health Passenger Locator Form before your arrival.
• Second, submit a PCR test result to the regional hygienic station.

The test can be done in two ways:

• Undergo the test in the Czech Republic within 5 days of entry and submit the test result within the next 7 days to the locally relevant hygiene station.
• Undergo a PCR test in an EU country. The test needs to be undergone less than 72 hours before the entry.

Q: What if I don’t undergo any test anywhere? A: If you do not submit the RT-PCR test result to the hygiene station within 7 days from your entry to the Czech territory, a necessary quarantine measure shall be ordered to you.

Q: Are all these restrictions applied also to kids? A: This does not apply to persons below the age of 5 .

Q: Can I transit across the Czech Republic? A: You don’t have the obligations to fill the form and submit a PCR test result if you transit up to 12 hours through the Czech Republic. But you need to have proof of transit .

Q: I’m going to the red zone just for a one-day trip . Do I need to undergo a test to come back to the country? A: Yes, if you stay for more than 12 hours. If your stay in the red country exceeds 12 hours in the last 14 days, you have the obligation to fill the form and submit a PCR test result.

Q: if I was tested positive for coronavirus within the past 90 days, do I still need to undergo another test to enter the country? A: Yes, you need either to undergo a test in the Czech Republic within 5 days after your arrival or a test result no older than 72 hours.

Q: I went across the border but there was no border control. Is it necessary to follow the obligations? A: The border control or residence check may not cover everyone who crossed the border but the obligations are necessary to follow.

Q: I think my purpose to enter the country is really essential, do I need to get any certificate from anyone to prove it? A: All the essential purposes are listed on the MOI website. Except for the listed purposes, all other purposes are considered non-essential. There’s no way that you can convince the border control that an unlisted purpose is essential. 

Considering the current situation under the coronavirus pandemic, holding a residence permit is still the safest option in 2021 to return to the Czech Republic without any problem.

Source of the information: mvcr.cz Source of the featured image: unsplash.com

Li Jiaoyang

Hi, there. See the photo on the left? Now we are talking! As a foreigner, the same as most of you, my dear readers, I know exactly what you care about the most.

5 thoughts on “ Step-by-Step Guide on Obligations to Enter the Czech Republic ”

Hello Li, Is the Public Health Passenger Locator Form available as a downloadable PDF with the ability to engage the form to fill it out and print it for carrying across the Czech border? I ask because at the time of re-entry into Czechia I will not have the ability to go online to fill out this form and send it via the link available. I cannot fill it out in its entirety before my trip because I am uncertain of a good portion of the questioning.

I tried to look it up but, unfortunately, it seems there is only the online form available. However, on the website they stated that in case of any inquiries you can send an e-mail to [email protected] – perhaps they would be able to provide you with a PDF version of the form (if it is possible, of course).

Hi Dwight, Anna was right. unfortunately, it is not possible to download the form because after you submit the form online, your data will be sent to the public health authorities so that they know about your arrival. Besides sending them email, you could fill in the form even before your trip if you already booked the ticket for the return journey.

17 February 2021 I was able to download a PDF form from a German site which can then be filled out, printed, and carried with you. Here is what I found on this German website: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/coronavirus/2317268 Digital entry registration Travelers who have visited a risk area, high incidence area, or virus variant area in the last ten days before entering Germany must register at http://www.einreiseanmeldung.de before arriving in Germany and carry proof of registration with them upon entry.

This obligation always applies to those entering the country who have previously stayed in virus variant areas. Certain exceptions apply for previous stays in other risk areas and high incidence areas. In particular, those who have only passed through a risk area and have not had a stopover there are exempt.

If in exceptional cases, it is not possible to complete a digital entry registration, travelers must instead fill out a substitute registration on paper.

The download described above is in German. Here is a link for the same form in English, the link for this English PDF is near the bottom of this page: https://www.dw.com/en/traveling-germany-coronavirus/a-54124541

Thank you very much for this info, it’s greatly appreciated! I’ll forward it to my colleagues and ask them, whether we shouldn’t include it in some article about the restrictions on travelling.

Kind regards,

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Registration after Arrival

Long-term visa, long-term & permanent residence.

As third countries citizens, you must get registered within 3 working days from the day you arrived in the Czech Republic, that is report your place of residence in the Czech Republic to the corresponding Department of Foreign Police .

In order to get registered you will need:

• Travel document
• Registration form (available at the Police Department)
• Proof of travel medical insurance

Learn more information about the registration of residence at the Department of Foreign Police .

You do not need to get registered if you:

• have met this requirement at the accommodation (e.g. you are staying at a hotel, dormitory or another accommodation establishment),
• you are under 15 years of age,
• you are a staff member of a foreign country’s diplomatic mission or an international government organisation accredited in the Czech Republic (this also applies to your family members who are registered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs), or
• you are a third country citizen and the Ministry of the Interior provides you with accommodation.

If you are a third-country national, you have to register at an office of the Ministry of the Interior, and you have to report the place of your residence in the Czech Republic. If you have been granted a visa for a stay longer than 90 days for the purpose of collection of a residence permit (D/VR) , you have to register within 30 calendar days . If you are allowed to legally enter the Czech Republic by a different method, e.g. without visa under effective international treaties posessing a biometric passport, you have to register within 3 days of your arrival. You will be sampled for biometric data necessary for the issuing of a residence permit document at an office of the Ministry.

• Registration form

Registration, collection of biometric data and issuance of a residence permit document are often divided into several steps, that is, usually, you will not be able to complete all these steps during one visit to the office.

1. You must get registered at a Ministry of the Interior office upon your arrival in the Czech Republic

In case you have been granted a  D/VR visa , you have to  register  at an office of the Ministry of the Interior within 30 calendar days of your arrival to the Czech Republic. If you are able to legally enter the Czech Republic in a different way, for example without a visa while having a biometric passport, you have to register within 3 days of your arrival. During the registration, the office’s employees will schedule an appointment with you so that you get your biometric data taken.

The Ministry of the Interior’s employees will also apply for a personal identity number for you.

2. Come to have your biometric data taken

Come to your appointment to have your biometric data taken and bring your travel document with you. At your appointment, you will be told when to come and collect your card when it is ready.

3. Collect your residence permit document (biometric card)

The last step is to collect your residence permit document (biometric card). The time limit for collection is 60 days from the date you had your biometric data taken.

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Czech Republic

Warnings and insurance, before you travel.

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you: 

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If you choose to travel, research your destinations and  get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out  more about  FCDO  travel advice .

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U.S. State Department Reissues Dominican Republic Travel Advisory

Santo Domingo. Photo: Shutterstock.com 

Travelers heading to the Dominican Republic should continue to exercise increased caution due to crime in the country.

That’s according to a reissued travel advisory from the U.S. State Department. The Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory contains no changes to the previous Dominican Republic advisory and keeps the country in the same category as Denmark, the U.K., Spain, Costa Rica, Italy, France, and more.

The advisory says that “violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic” though a new tourist police corps, and institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, means resort areas tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo.

“The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale,” the advisory reads.

The advisory is not a warning to avoid travel to the Dominican Republic—only the State Department’s Level 4 warning does that. Instead, it advises travelers going to the country to stay safe by being aware of their surroundings, not displaying any signs of wealth, and not resisting any robbery attempts.

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The Department of State has suspended visa services in Haiti

The information below outlines options Haitian nationals seeking U.S. visas may consider.

Immigrant Visas

Immigrant visas are for foreign nationals who intend to live and/or work permanently in the United States.  In most cases, a relative or employer sponsors the individual by filing a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).  Further information on immigrant visas can be found here:  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate.html .

The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince has suspended routine immigrant visa appointments until further notice. Immigrant visa applicants who can travel to another U.S. embassy or consulate that processes immigrant visas and remain in that country for the duration of their visa processing should consider requesting the transfer of their case from U.S. Embassy Port-au-Prince using the instructions below:

If the case is at U.S. Embassy Port-au-Prince :   Applicants may contact a new U.S. embassy or consulate in writing to request the transfer of their immigrant visa case.  Applicants can find the contact information for Immigrant Visa Units at U.S. embassies and consulates at https://usembassy.gov/ .  The applicant should provide evidence, if possible, of their presence in the country to which they would like their case to be transferred, or documentation of their ability to enter and remain in that country for the duration of the immigrant visa process.

If the Case is Pending at the National Visa Center (NVC):   Applicants may contact NVC at https://nvc.state.gov/inquiry to request a transfer to another immigrant visa processing post.  Applicants should be prepared to provide evidence of the ability to enter and remain in the requested country for the duration of the process.

Applicants may also request NVC expedite their case at the new consular section by emailing [email protected] and providing the specific reason for their expedite request.  Please be aware expedited case processing does not apply to family preference visa categories where a case is not current.

The Department of State continues to communicate with U.S. adoptive families in the intercountry adoption process and adoption service providers regarding recent developments in Haiti, and we are assessing the situation as it unfolds.  The Department is responding to individual inquiries from Adoption Service Providers and prospective adoptive parents. 

We are working as quickly as possible to identify options for continued case processing and assisted departure for Haitian children in the intercountry adoption process, while meeting U.S. laws, regulations, and our Hague  Convention obligations as well as minimizing the risk of Haitian children coming to the United States with no clear path to legal status .

We are also working with Haiti’s child welfare authority, the Institut du Bien-Être Social et de Recherches (IBESR), to assist Haitian adoptive children in obtaining exit permissions, while we work on solutions at other stages of the intercountry adoption process. 

Prospective adoptive parents should remain in regular contact with their adoption service providers in the United States.

U.S. citizens who have adopted Haitian children through the domestic Haitian process (rather than an intercountry adoption) and have an appointment date from USCIS for an N-600K interview may apply for a B-1/B-2 visa for the child to attend the interview and naturalize.  This is appropriate only for children who do not intend to reside in the United States.  See Nonimmigrant Visas  below.

Nonimmigrant Visas

Most nonimmigrant visa categories require the applicant to demonstrate intent to leave the United States after a temporary stay .

The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince has suspended routine nonimmigrant visa appointments until further notice.  T he U.S. Embassy in Port au Prince can only accept expedited nonimmigrant visa appointments for life-or-death medical emergencies (with proof of travel plans) or to facilitate travel for a child with a confirmed USCIS appointment for a naturalization interview based on a Form N-600K .  Applicants can submit a request for an expedited NIV appointment by following the instructions provided at https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ht/en/nonimmigrant-visa .

Nonimmigrant visa applicants may apply at any embassy or consulate where they are physically present and where appointments are available.  A full list of embassies and consulates is available here: https://www.usembassy.gov/ .  Appointment wait times are available at U.S. Visas (state.gov) .  Once an interview appointment is made, applicants can request an expedited appointment but must describe the unique circumstances that justify such a request.

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