Prague

Figures are planning estimates for one person, reviewed September 2026. Run your own numbers in the cost calculator.

Major expat-friendly banks include Fio Banka (free account, excellent online banking, some English support), Raiffeisenbank (premium service, investment products, English-speaking staff), ČSOB (largest branch network, mortgage products), and Komerční banka (good for businesses). Account opening requires: passport, visa/residence permit, proof of address (rental contract), and sometimes proof of income. Process takes 1-2 weeks. Many expats also use Wise or Revolut as primary accounts for international transfers and daily spending.

The flat 15% on the first roughly €80,000 is the friendliest headline in central Europe — with the 29.2% social layer the fine print that takes the all-in rate towards half again for the self-employed. Flat 15% income tax rate on income up to approximately CZK 1,935,552 annually (about €80,000). Income above this threshold is taxed at 23%. Social insurance contributions are mandatory at approximately 29.2% for self-employed (minimum base applies). Health insurance is an additional 13.5% of the assessment base. The tax year follows the calendar year with filing due by April 1. Self-employed individuals on the Živnostenský list can use a simplified flat-rate expense deduction of 40-60% depending on activity type, which significantly reduces the effective tax rate.

Full expat tax guide →

Prague runs on the EU's freedom of movement for Europeans and the trade-licence route (živnost) for everyone else — a self-employed structure that is cheaper and faster than most of its EU equivalents, which is the city's quiet visa story. EU citizens have full freedom of movement. Non-EU nationals typically need a long-term visa or employee card. The Živnostenský list (trade license) is the most common route for freelancers and remote workers — it's not technically a digital nomad visa but covers self-employed remote work. Application requires a Czech address, criminal record check, and proof of qualifications. Processing takes 1-3 months at the Ministry of Industry. Renewal is straightforward after the first year.

Compare visa options → · Nomad visa guide →

VZP and the other insurers run a solid public system anchored by good central hospitals — the Motol campus included — and Prague expats usually hold a mixed public-plus-private position rather than either extreme. Public healthcare through VZP (General Health Insurance Company) or six other insurers. All employed and self-employed residents must contribute. Quality is generally good in Prague — major hospitals include Motol University Hospital, Na Homolce, and the General University Hospital. Waiting times for specialists can be 2-4 weeks. Many expats supplement with private insurance from providers like Uniqa or Maxima for faster access and English-speaking doctors. Dental and vision are partially covered. Emergency care is provided to everyone regardless of insurance status.

• Very affordable vs Western Europe — rent 40-60% cheaper than Berlin or Amsterdam
• Central European location — weekend trips to Berlin (4hr), Vienna (4hr), Munich (5hr)
• Beautiful medieval and Art Nouveau architecture — one of Europe's best-preserved cities
• Large English-speaking expat community of 50,000+, especially in Vinohrady and Karlín

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