Health insurance in Czechia for foreigners: the basics

Health insurance is required for everyone living in the Czech Republic, and the rules for foreigners can be confusing. Here is a simple overview to help you ask the right questions.

Public health insurance

If you are employed by a Czech employer, you are generally covered by the public health insurance system, and contributions are paid through your salary. EU citizens and people with permanent residence also usually have access to the public system.

Private health insurance

Some non-EU residents who are not employed in Czechia, for example some students, freelancers or family members, need comprehensive private health insurance for their residence permit. Make sure your policy meets the official requirements for your type of stay.

What about mental health?

Psychiatric care is generally covered by public insurance. Counselling and psychotherapy with private practitioners, especially in English or other languages, is often paid privately and waiting times in the public system can be long. Some employers offer an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) that covers confidential counselling, so it is worth asking your HR team.

Insurance rules change and depend on your situation. Always check with your insurer, employer or the Ministry of the Interior.

Prague Integration offers counselling for expats and locals in over 10 languages, online or in person in Prague 1. Book a free discovery session and we will match you with the right person.