Czechia

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for any emergency. 
• Dial 158 for police.
• Dial 155 for health emergencies. 
• Dial 150 for fire.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable but are generally peaceful. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.  
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

• Pickpocketing is problematic, especially in major tourist areas in Prague. Criminals operate in professional, highly organized groups and may be armed with simple weapons. Avoid direct confrontation. Do not leave your belongings unattended. High-risk areas include:
  • public transportation,
  • the city center, and
  • crowded areas and outdoor cafes.
• Auto thefts and break-ins are common in Czechia , especially in major cities. Use parking garages and anti-theft devices. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight inside vehicles. This significantly increases the possibility of theft.
• Pedestrian traffic violations, such as jaywalking, may be enforced in Prague’s city center. You may face fines up to 2,000 Czech crowns or Koruna (about USD 100). Refusal to pay may lead to a court procedure and an even higher fine. Streetcars have the right of way over pedestrians at crosswalks.
• ATMs are widely available throughout major cities. Criminal organizations have used electronic “skimming” to steal card information and PIN numbers at some ATMs. Use ATMs at secure, monitored locations like commercial banks, large hotels, and at the airport.
• Overcharging scams are common. Verify charges paid with credit cards are correct before signing for purchases. Keep all receipts, and check your credit card accounts online to ensure correct billing.

Scams

• Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.
• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.   

Financial scams and Internet romance scams are common in Czechia. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. 

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Currency exchange. Conduct currency exchanges at reputable banks or legitimate money kiosks. Pay close attention to the exact rate offered for the amount you wish to exchange, as rates may vary widely for smaller versus larger amounts and between different exchange offices. An offer to exchange currency by an unknown person on the street is most likely a scam.
• Grandparent and relative targeting 
• Free trip or luggage 
• Lotteries 
• Inheritance notices 
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Czechia:  

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.  
• Meet in a popular public place. 
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

• Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy or consulate can: 

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.  
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.  
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.
• Local resources available to victims of crime can be found at: Bilý Kruh Bezpečí (White Circle of Safety). 

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the nearest U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. 
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks. 
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Satellite phones are illegal to use in the Czech Republic.

Drones

• Drones are restricted over certain areas but are legal for hobby use. Drones need to be registered with local authorities. You may need a license depending on the type (for example, if the drone is over 250g and has a camera.)

Tourism safety

 The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. 
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities. 
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally. 
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.  

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel. Ensure the security of your passport and other valuables to prevent incidents of pickpocketing or theft.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned. 

• Ensure the security of your passport and other valuables to prevent incidents of pickpocketing or theft.
• Always carry your passport. Czech Police, customs, or immigration officials can request to see your passport at any time. You may be fined if you fail to produce your original passport.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Czechia, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.  

Arrest notification 

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.  

• It is illegal in Czechia to sell, have, or use certain drugs. 
• In Czechia, it is illegal to drink any alcohol before driving. This rule is strictly enforced. 
• Police officers may ask you to show your ID to confirm who you are. They can ask you more questions after checking your ID.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations. 

• They may be illegal according to local laws.  
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.  
• Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• U.S. Department of Justice 

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:  

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Czechia.  
• Outside of Prague, particularly in small towns, same sex relations or events are less accepted. People who identify as gay or lesbian should use discretion when traveling in these areas.
• According to the latest survey by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), 63% of gay and lesbian respondents in Czechia reported experiencing harassment. This includes unwanted comments and threats. This is the highest rate among all 27 European Union member countries. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Czechia prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, mental and psychological impairments as per the Anti-Discrimination Act. The law is enforced. 
• The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication, access to services, ease of movement or access. 
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.
• Accessibility is common in public transportation. Many but not all buses and streetcars - especially in Prague - are configured for special needs access.
• 72 percent of Prague’s metro stations are accessible to people with disabilities. The city’s work to expand barrier-free access continues.
• Taxi services for people with limited mobility exist. There are several companies offering these services in Prague, and some service areas outside Prague. Contact the U.S. embassy in Czechia to receive a list of providers. 
• Much of the center of Prague was built centuries ago. It has narrow cobblestone streets that may make accessibility difficult or impossible.
• Accessibility outside of Prague is generally less available.
• Cultural norms and general public sentiment towards people with disabilities have been reserved. This comes from a history of segregation during communism. Attitudes are improving with more focus on inclusion. However, negative attitudes, especially towards those with intellectual disabilities, still exist. 
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers  

• Be aware of “date-rape” drugs.
• Be cautious in bars and clubs where alcohol is served. Do not leave your drink unattended or accept a drink from a stranger. It can lead to serious consequences.
• Review our information for Women Travelers. 
• Review our information on Marriage. 
• Review our information on Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C).
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling

Health

Health resources

• The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals on its website. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• CDC Czechia Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations. 
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency medical services.  

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are widely available. 

• In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country.
• Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance.
• Ambulance services are on par with those in the United States. Response time is usually less than 15 minutes
• Ambulance companies generally expect payment at the time of service.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not. 

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Czechia. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Czechia.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Private hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.  
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice 

Healthcare facilities 

• Health facilities are available throughout Czechia. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Hospitals and doctors sometimes require payment up front prior to service or admission. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. 
• Czech hospitals typically bar parents from staying overnight, with the exception of newborns and toddlers.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.

Medical tourism and elective surgery 

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.   
• Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They don't follow the same rules. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor. 
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Czechia. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Czechia.   
• Although Czechia has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Czechia make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified.  
• You must have a long-term visa if you are traveling to Czechia for medical purposes that require a stay longer than 90 days. Check the Government of Czechia’s website for more information.  

Prescription medications 

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 
• Check with the Czech Institute for Drug control (SUKL) to make sure the medication is legal in Czechia. 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Czechia to have a child through the use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 

• Czechia does not have laws regulating surrogacy, so it is neither legal nor prohibited and exists in a legal grey zone. 

According to local law, ART is available to heterosexual couples, but not to single women or homosexual couples. 

• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Czechia via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities or citizenship status. 
• Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.  
• Since surrogacy contracts are not enforceable, intended parents must often go through adoption or court processes to establish parentage which carries risks and can lead to delays. More information can be found on the Czech Justice Ministry’s website.

Water quality and food safety 

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking. 
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast . It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Czechia.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Emergency phone numbers

In case of an accident: 

• Dial 158 for the local police
• Dial 112 for emergency services. 
• Dial 1240 for general roadside assistance (UAMK). It is available 24/7. You can call from highway telephones. These are located every 2 kilometers along the roads. 

Road conditions and safety

• Driving in Czechia is generally safe on major roads and motorways if you follow the rules, drive defensively, and prepare for conditions. 
• Secondary roads are riskier, especially at night or in bad weather. This is especially the case in rural or remote areas. 
• Road signage and enforcement are good. Emergency services and roadside assistance exist and are accessible.
• Familiarize yourself with the traffic laws of the Czech Republic to avoid fines, detention, or potential imprisonment.
• On two-lane roads and in small towns, you may find uneven surfaces, roads in poor condition, irregular lane markings, and unclear sign placements.
• Pay special attention when driving on cobblestones and among streetcars in historic city centers, especially in wet or icy conditions.
• Winter tires are required under certain conditions. Winter equipment is required in some areas.
• Use of headlights during the day and night is mandatory all year.

Traffic laws  

To drive in the Czech Republic, you must have an International Driving Permit (IDP), available from AAA in the United States. This is in addition to your U.S. driver’s license. Failure to have an IDP with a valid license may result in an additional fine if stopped for a traffic offense. You may also face denial of an insurance claim after an accident.

• All private cars, including those of foreign visitors, must carry additional safety gear. This includes reflective jackets, warning triangles, and a first aid kit. You can purchase this equipment at any gas station or large supermarket.
• In case of a traffic accident or breakdown on the highway, you must use a warning triangle. Place it at least 100 meters before the car on a highway and 50 meters on other roads. 
• Czech law requires all passengers and occupants of private vehicles to use seatbelts.
• There is a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol. Police can use breathalyzers on drivers stopped for any reason. Driving with any detected alcohol in the body, however small, is illegal. It usually leads to immediate fines and possible criminal charges.
• Czech law requires the use of headlights at all times.
• A toll sticker is required for all cars to drive legally on major highways. For more information, visit the official Czech highway toll website.
• Winter tires are obligatory if there are expected winter weather conditions. These are common from November 1st to March 31st.
• Using hand-held cell phones while driving is prohibited.
• Streetcars always have the right of way over other vehicles and pedestrians, including at crosswalks.
• Parking in Prague is challenging. There are different rules for different zones. We strongly recommend that you familiarize yourself with the parking criteria to avoid unpleasant surprises, like fines

Taxis and ride-shares

• Legitimate taxis are clearly marked. The U.S. embassy strongly recommends calling for a taxi rather than hailing one on the street. 
• If calling is not possible, visitors should get taxis at clearly marked “Fair Place” stands. 
• Some taxis may overcharge for their services. This is common in tourist areas. Agree on the price in advance or ensure the driver is using the meter. 
• Ridesharing and mobile taxi apps, like Bolt, Uber and Liftago, are common in Prague and in most major cities

Public and commercial transportation 

• Visit the website of Czechia’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety. 
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight 

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Czechia’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Czechia’s temperate climate brings some common weather events: 

• Flooding - Common between March to August. Spring snowmelt and summer storms can cause river flooding and flash floods. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ) provides warnings. Emergency services respond as needed.
• Thunderstorms- Common from June to August. Heavy rain, hail, and strong winds may cause localized flooding or damage. ČHMÚ issues storm alerts.
• Snowstorms and ice - Common from December to February. Winter weather can disrupt travel. It can lead to avalanches in some areas. 
• Heatwaves - Common from July to August. High summer temperatures can exceed 35°C  (95 Fahrenheit) posing health risks. Local authorities provide heat advisories and cooling resources.
• Drought - Common from July to September. Dry spells in summer and early autumn can affect agriculture and water supplies. Check ČHMÚ forecasts and follow local emergency guidance.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates