The Czech Republic or Czechia, once the heart of the Bohemian Kingdom and home to one of the continent’s oldest universities, was a hub of Central European art, architecture, scholarship, and political innovation for centuries. The country’s rich heritage has survived empires, wars, and political shifts.

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The 20th century brought decades of Soviet-imposed isolation and the nation’s resistance to authoritarian rule, culminating in the peaceful Velvet Revolution of 1989. Since then, Czechia has enthusiastically reintegrated with the broader European community, joining the EU in 2004, modernizing its institutions, and attracting international investment. The country’s modern, open-market economy has been growing rapidly in recent years, fueled by high-tech manufacturing, IT and software development, and automotive engineering. With its welcoming cities, affordable cost of living, and an increasingly international workforce, Czechia has become one of Europe’s most appealing destinations for expats, entrepreneurs, and freelancers who seek a high quality of life without the overwhelming cost often found in Northern and Western European countries.

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This guide explores the industries actively seeking international talent in Czechia in 2025, relocation paths available for professionals and entrepreneurs, and insights into the latest salary trends, tax landscape, cost of living, and daily essentials. We will also highlight how third-party solutions can help simplify and speed up personal and corporate relocation, whether you are moving for work or business.

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Best practices for relocating people and companies to Czechia: who is in demand, what are the visa requirements, and how to set up a business there?

Czechia’s dynamic economic landscape rewards professionals and entrepreneurs who bring valuable skills, particularly in IT/software development, automotive engineering, high-tech manufacturing, and sustainable energy. Due to regulatory limits on non-EU applicants, professionals with specialized qualifications and work experience from regions with proven technological expertise can expect a smoother entry process. This approach, though nuanced, supports Czechia’s need for competitive expertise to fuel its growth that is driven by European standards of innovation.

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💡In 2025, Czechia introduced a new type of long-term residence permit for displaced Ukrainian citizens who are locally employed and financially self-sufficient. The permit grants simplified access to the Czech labor market.

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For working professionals, there are two pathways to the Czech Republic: one for those seeking new on-site employment and another for those relocated by their current employer.

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• The former typically requires a pre-arranged job offer and the issuance of a plastic biometric Employee Card, which is always tied to the job offer with a specific employer. The Employee Card is valid for up to 2 years, with a possibility of renewal. The processing time is 60 days (or up to 90 days in specific complex cases).
• The latter is applicable to internal transfers using the Intra-Company Transferee Card, which is issued to employees holding specialist or managerial positions when moving to the Czech Republic. This card is valid for 3 years, while for interns, it is issued for 1 year. The processing time is 90 days.
• Highly qualified individuals and professionals in high-demand industries who have a job offer from a Czech employer may be eligible for the EU Blue Card, which is issued for 2 years and can be renewed.

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Entrepreneurs and startup founders who are interested in business immigration to the Czech Republic can apply for the following types of visas/permits:

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• The Long-Term Business Visa requires substantiated plans and financial resources. It is processed in up to 90 days (or 120 days in specific complex cases) and is valid for up to 1 year, with the possibility of extension.
• The Long-Term Investment Permit is suitable for business executives with investment plans or individuals who intend to make significant investments in the Czech Republic. The investment must total at least 75 million CZK and create a minimum of 20 jobs for EU citizens or their family members, maintained for at least 2 years. The Investment Permit is issued for up to 2 years, and the maximum extension period is also 2 years.

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Freelancers, digital nomads, and self-employed professionals can also apply for a specialized visa designed to attract remote and independent talent. The Digital Nomad Visa allows eligible applicants to stay in Czechia for up to 1 year while working remotely for foreign companies, clients, or contractors.

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What is the current tax landscape in the Czech Republic? Are there any mandatory social security contributions or statutory benefit programs?

Czechia aligns with the broader EU approach to social welfare, maintaining a strong social security system funded by transparent employer and employee taxes. State policies require employers to provide comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, pension contributions, and social security. This ensures a high quality of life and reliable social protection for both international professionals and business owners relocating to the country.

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In 2025, the progressive personal income tax in Czechia is 15% for individuals with annual gross income up to CZK 1,676,052 and 23% for those whose income exceeds the threshold. Mandatory employer contributions are 24.8% for social security and 9% for health insurance.

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💡To get an accurate idea of your net (after-tax) salary in the Czech Republic or to forecast your employer’s contributions for the local team, we recommend using the Payroll Cost Estimator tool.

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Contributions to the public healthcare system in Czechia cover general practitioner services, specialist consultations, hospital care, and prescription medications.

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Self-employed individuals are required to make monthly health insurance contributions, with the minimum set at CZK 3,143 for 2025. Additionally, they must contribute to social security, with the minimum monthly payment increasing to CZK 4,759. These contributions fund pensions, sickness benefits, and other social services. Moreover, there is voluntary sickness insurance with a minimum monthly payment of CZK 243 that covers maternity leave and long-term caregiver allowances.

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What are the best cities for expats and digital nomads in Czechia?

First and foremost, internationals are drawn to Prague, the country’s dynamic capital. It is known for its vibrant expat scene, stunning architecture that reflects the city’s long and layered history, and excellent connectivity to a wide range of European destinations. Prague is especially popular among professionals in finance, tech, and the creative industries. However, the cost of living here is 15–25% higher than in other major Czech cities, particularly in terms of rent and dining.

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Brno, home to numerous startups and global companies, attracts digital nomads and students with its affordability and strong academic spirit. Plzeň, famous for its brewing legacy, appeals to families and freelancers seeking a slower pace and better value while still enjoying a modern urban lifestyle.

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What is the cost of living in Czechia in 2025?

As we already mentioned, expats in Czechia enjoy a high standard of living that many find cost-effective, with affordable and stable public transport fees and approx. 20% lower grocery and dining expenses than in many Western and Northern European countries. The average monthly salary is approx. CZK 46,557 (EUR 1,860 or USD 2,020), with higher earnings in sectors like IT, engineering, and finance.

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‍Rental prices have risen by about 17% compared to 2024, with one-bedroom apartments in city centers averaging CZK 21,600 (EUR 860 or USD 940) and three-bedroom units around CZK 34,600 (EUR 1,380 or USD 1,500). Public kindergartens are accessible to children over three, and from 2026, municipalities must ensure placement or provide compensation if unavailable. Private kindergartens charge about CZK 12,500 (EUR 500 or USD 550) monthly, while international schools can cost up to CZK 241,600 (EUR 9,650 or USD 10,600) annually.

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Are there any third-party solutions that can speed up work or business-related relocation to Czechia and improve its success rate?

‍Whether you are planning to move to the Czech Republic while remaining with your current employer, or seeking a reliable pathway to enter the Czech market as a business, we’ve got you covered.

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To employers, we offer an EOR solution: we hire and manage teams in Czechia on your behalf without the need to establish a legal entity. For employees and remote workers, our Umbrella Company solution works best: we handle your employment, allowing you to live and pay taxes locally while working for a foreign employer.

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Our team has an on-site presence in Czechia and an in-depth understanding of the local landscape. To get more detailed information, book a meeting with our expert or submit a request form!