Banking, Money and Taxes in Czech Republic

The banking system in the Czech Republic is modern, and expats should not have too much difficulty finding their way around it.

It is relatively easy to open a bank account and apply for a credit card in the Czech Republic. Despite being a member of the EU, the country still uses the Czech crown as its currency. It is legally bound to adopt the Euro as its currency at some point in the future, but much of the Czech public is strongly opposed to this.

Money in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic’s currency is the Czech crown (koruna), with its international abbreviation being CZK.

• Coins: 1 CZK, 2 CZK, 5 CZK, 10 CZK, 20 CZK and 50 CZK
• Notes: 100 CZK, 200 CZK, 500 CZK, 1,000 CZK, 2,000 CZK and 5,000 CZK

Banking in the Czech Republic

Expats who plan on living in the Czech Republic for more than a couple of months will need to open a Czech bank account, especially if they are receiving their salary in korunas.

There is no shortage of banks in the Czech Republic, and some banks even have services that cater to the needs of expats. The largest bank in the Czech Republic is Česká spořitelna. Some international banks such as Citibank, HSBC and Western Union also operate in the country.

Expats can use their foreign debit and credit cards in the Czech Republic, but some smaller shops and restaurants only accept cash. Those who need to make transfers from their home country should use a foreign exchange centre, as banks do not offer good rates for large transfers.

Opening a bank account

It is not difficult for expats to open a bank account in the Czech Republic. All they need to produce is their passport and one other form of identification, although some banks might also ask for proof of address in the Czech Republic or a residency certificate or work contract. 

Expats will also need to provide an initial deposit when opening a bank account in the Czech Republic. Different banks will have different minimum amounts. Transaction fees in the Czech Republic can be high and are charged in addition to a monthly bank account fee. 

ATMs and credit cards

ATMs in the Czech Republic are easily found in urban centres, and many will have a language option, allowing expats to operate them in English or whichever language they choose. Expats should be aware that most ATMs will charge a fee, especially when withdrawing from a foreign bank account.

International credit cards are accepted in the Czech Republic, but expats are eligible to apply for a Czech credit card should they wish to do so. The application process may vary from bank to bank. 

Taxes in the Czech Republic

Expats who spend more than 183 days within a tax year in the Czech Republic are considered tax residents. Those who fall into this category will be taxed on their worldwide income unless their home country has a double-taxation treaty with the Czech Republic. Expats who are not tax residents of the Czech Republic are only taxed on their income earned in the Czech Republic.

As tax matters can be complex for expats, it is recommended that they consult a specialist tax advisor who has experience with expats.