Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, is often referred to as the “City of a Hundred Spires.” With its stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic charm, it’s one of Europe’s most beloved destinations. Situated along the Vltava River, Prague boasts a rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and a reputation as one of the most picturesque cities in the world.

Prague’s allure lies in its ability to transport visitors back in time while offering all the conveniences of a modern city. The Old Town Square, with its Astronomical Clock and medieval streets, contrasts beautifully with the modern cafes and boutique shops lining its thoroughfares. Prague is also known for its thriving beer culture—home to some of the best breweries in the world—and its lively atmosphere, which blends historic mystique with contemporary European flair.

Visa Requirements

Tourist Visa Citizens of EU member states, the US, Canada, and many other countries can visit the Czech Republic visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
Visa on Arrival (VOA) The Czech Republic does not offer visa-on-arrival services, so travelers should confirm their visa requirements in advance.
Digital Nomad Visa Although there is no dedicated digital nomad visa, remote workers can apply for long-term residency visas under specific conditions, such as employment contracts or business permits.

For more details, consult the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Cost of Living

Accommodation

Budget: Hostels and shared apartments ($124 – $340/month).
Mid-Range: Private apartments in central neighborhoods ($600 – $1100/month).
Luxury: Upscale apartments or houses ($1700+/month).

Food

Budget: Street food and casual eateries ($4.00 – $6.00/meal).
Mid-Range: Local bistros and restaurants ($10 – $20/meal).
Luxury: Fine dining and Michelin-starred restaurants ($60+).

Transportation Public transportation in Prague is efficient and affordable:

Metro, tram, and bus tickets start at $1.00+ for a 30-minute ride.
Monthly transport passes cost approximately $22.

Healthcare Healthcare is excellent and affordable. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for basic services, while others should secure travel insurance. Private consultations range from $20 to $82.

Climate & Weather

Spring (March-May): Mild and pleasant 50°F – 68°F(10°C-20°C), with blooming flowers and outdoor festivals.
Summer (June-August): Warm and sunny 68°F – 86°F (20°C-30°C), perfect for exploring parks and river cruises.
Autumn (September-November): Crisp air 50°F – 68°F(10°C-20°C) and stunning fall foliage.
Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy 32°F – 41°F (0°C-5°C), with festive Christmas markets and cozy cafes.

The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is ideal and crowds are manageable.

Landscape

Rivers: The Vltava River runs through Prague, offering picturesque views and scenic boat tours.
Architecture: Iconic landmarks include Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and St. Vitus Cathedral.
Parks and Gardens: Petrín Hill and Letná Park provide green spaces with panoramic city views.
Nearby Countryside: The Bohemian countryside features rolling hills, medieval castles, and charming villages.

Things to Do

Heritage Sites: Explore Prague Castle, the Old Town Square, and the Jewish Quarter.
Adventure Activities: Go kayaking on the Vltava River or hiking in nearby national parks like Český Ráj.
Nightlife: Discover Prague’s vibrant club scene, trendy bars, and world-famous beer gardens.
Wellness Retreats: Relax in luxurious spas or enjoy traditional Czech beer baths.
Shopping: Browse markets like Havelský trh or high-end boutiques in Pařížská Street.

Lifestyle

Life in Prague is a harmonious blend of historic charm and modern convenience. Cobblestone streets, efficient public transport, and an active cultural scene make it a delightful place to live and work. Prague’s international community is welcoming, with numerous expat groups and social events. Immersing yourself in local customs, such as traditional food and music, enhances the experience.

Other Important Locations in the Czech Republic

Český Krumlov: A fairy-tale town with a stunning castle.
Karlovy Vary: Renowned for its thermal spas and film festival.
Brno: A vibrant city known for its innovative tech scene.
Kutná Hora: Famous for the Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church).
Bohemian Switzerland: A national park with dramatic sandstone formations.

Rental Accommodations

Budget: Shared apartments or dormitories ($200 – $450/month).
Mid-Range: Private flats in central areas ($620 – $1100/month).
Luxury: Premium apartments or houses ($1650+/month).

Co-Working Facilities and Costs

HubHub: Modern workspace in the city center; prices start at $200/month.
Impact Hub: A community-driven coworking space; daily passes from $15.
Node5: Ideal for tech start-ups; memberships start at $160/month.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi: Prague boasts strong and reliable Wi-Fi in public areas, including cafes, restaurants, and tourist hotspots. Hotels and hostels typically offer free, high-speed internet for guests.
SIM: Prepaid SIM cards from O2, Vodafone, or T-Mobile are widely available and affordable. Purchase requires an ID, and packages often include generous data allowances.

Volunteering Opportunities

Community Support: Work with local charities or food banks.
Teach English: Volunteer in schools or language programs.
Environmental Projects: Participate in clean-ups and conservation initiatives.
Cultural Programs: Assist at museums, theaters, or cultural festivals.

Explore a range of volunteering opportunities at www.volunteerhq.org or https://www.volunteermatch.org/search/orgs.jsp?r=country&l=Czech+Republic

Local Employment Options

IT and software development roles.
English teaching positions.
Jobs in international companies or call centers.

Real Estate Investment Options

Residential Properties: Apartments in historic districts are highly desirable.
Commercial Properties: Retail spaces and offices in prime locations offer excellent returns.
Vacation Rentals: Properties near tourist hotspots can generate significant rental income.

Start-Up Ecosystem

Prague’s start-up scene thrives on innovation and collaboration, particularly in tech, AI, and gaming. The government’s support, along with numerous incubators and co-working spaces, makes it a hub for entrepreneurs.

Business Setup Process for Expats

Prague is one of Central Europe’s most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs, thanks to its affordable living costs, central location, and thriving business environment. The process of setting up a business as an expat in Prague is straightforward if you follow these steps:

Choose the Right Business Structure

Self-Employed (Živnostník): For freelancers or sole traders.
Limited Liability Company (SRO): Most common for small- to medium-sized businesses. Requires at least one director and €1 as the minimum share capital.
Joint-Stock Company (AS): Ideal for larger businesses.
Branch Office: For foreign companies establishing a local branch in the Czech Republic.

Obtain a Trade License (Živnostenský list)

Most business activities require a trade license.
To apply, you’ll need: Proof of identity (passport), A valid visa or residence permit, Business address in Prague, Relevant qualifications or experience (for regulated trades).

Register the Company Name

Choose a unique business name.
Check its availability through the Czech Commercial Register.

Open a Czech Bank Account

A business bank account is mandatory for corporate entities.
For an SRO, you’ll need to deposit the minimum share capital (as low as €1).

Draft Company Documents

For entities like an SRO or AS, you’ll need to prepare:
- Articles of Association (Stanovy).
- Proof of the registered office address.
- Consent of the managing director.
These documents must be notarized.

Register the Business with the Czech Commercial Register

Submit the company documents to the Czech Commercial Register (Obchodní Rejstřík).
This process is typically handled by a notary or legal advisor.

Register for Taxes and VAT

Register your business with the Czech Tax Office (Finanční úřad) for a Tax Identification Number (DIČ).
If your business expects to earn more than CZK 2 million (approximately $83,000) annually, you’ll need to register for VAT.

Register with the Social Security and Health Insurance Systems

If you plan to employ staff, you must register your business with the Czech Social Security Administration and health insurance companies.
Self-employed individuals must pay social and health insurance contributions as part of their monthly expenses.

Obtain Special Licenses or Permits

Depending on your business type, you may require additional permits, such as:
- Food service licenses for restaurants or cafes.
- Environmental permits for specific industries.

Hire Local Professionals for Support
Understand Labor Laws (If Hiring)

Ensure you comply with Czech labor laws, including minimum wage, employee benefits, and working hours. Draft employment contracts in compliance with local regulations.

Join Prague’s Business Community

Leverage networking events and co-working spaces like HubHub or Impact Hub Prague to connect with other entrepreneurs and startups.
Participate in initiatives by organizations like CzechInvest, which supports startups and foreign businesses.