Why has the Czech Republic become a popular destination for migrants?

In recent years, the Czech Republic has become a true magnet for foreign citizens, driven by the diverse aspects of life in this country. It offers numerous opportunities for those wishing to immigrate, making it particularly attractive to people from various cultural backgrounds. Cultural traditions, language nuances, quality of life, job opportunities, and the housing market are just a few of the key factors to consider when planning a move.

Foreign population of the Czech Republic

Czechia is becoming increasingly multicultural due to the influx of migrants. According to statistics from the end of 2017, the share of foreigners in the population reached a historic high. In 2016, around 46,000 new residents from various corners of the world moved to the country, bringing the total number of migrants to over 524,000. Ukrainians make up the largest group among them, followed by Slovaks and Vietnamese. About 36,000 Russians are also part of Czech society, many of whom are actively investing in the country's economy. In recent years, the process of obtaining a residence permit has been significantly simplified, which undoubtedly increases interest in Czechia among migrants.

Reasons for moving

There are many reasons to choose the Czech Republic as a new place to live, and the most popular among them include:

• Work
• Study
• Investment activity

Citizens of Russia not only buyreal estate but also open their own businesses, thereby contributing to the development of the Czech economy. As of early 2018, there were over 13,000 Russian companies registered in the country — a truly record-breaking figure. Additionally, the number of work visas for Ukrainians is increasing, which is especially important given the shortage of qualified specialists in various sectors.

Educational opportunities

Every seventh student in the Czech Republic is a foreigner, highlighting the international focus of educational institutions. It is interesting to note that the number of students from CIS countries, such as Russia and Ukraine, has significantly increased in recent years. In 2016, more than 10,000 students from these countries were studying at Czech higher education institutions, which indicates the high quality of education and the attractiveness of Czech universities for foreign students.

Registration of residence permit

The process of obtaining a residence permit in the Czech Republic is diverse and can be based on various factors, such as:

• Investments (at least 2.7 million euros with the aim of creating at least 20 jobs)
• Starting a business
• Employmentin a local company

Students of Czech universities and researchers can expect more simplified conditions for obtaining a residence permit. Family reunification, although one of the grounds, is not very popular, and it is worth noting that owning property does not guarantee automatic approval for a residence permit. However, purchasing property can positively influence the application process.

Standard of living

The standard of living in the Czech Republic is generally lower compared to other Western European countries, although the cost of housing in Prague, the capital, is constantly rising. Most newcomers are concentrated in Prague, where about 15% of the population consists of migrants, while the national average is around 5%. Therefore, it is important to consider the real estate market situation and the possibility of finding suitable housing.

Employment opportunities

The Czech labor market is actively in need of foreign specialists, and high competition creates favorable conditions for various categories of migrants. Job opportunities can be found through various platforms and agencies that provide employment services for foreigners, matching their qualifications.

Healthcare and pension provision

The Czech healthcare system offers its citizens, including migrants, high-quality medical services. The pension system is also well-developed, which is an important aspect for those planning to stay in the country for the long term.

Thus, the Czech Republic is gaining increasing popularity among migrants due to a number of factors: high educational standards, favorable conditions for doing business, active foreign communities, and overall quality of life. This creates unique conditions for relocation and subsequent adaptation in a new environment.

A special Telegram channel offers valuable information about real estate, immigration, and investment opportunities. Moving to a new country involves not only learning the language but also getting acquainted with the cultural nuances of the people around you.

Attitude towards immigrants

Czechs generally have a rather neutral attitude towards immigrants, especially those who came from the former USSR. The modern generation does not dwell too much on the events of 1968, while for older citizens, it is seen as a distant history that is not worth delving into. Local experts point out that there are quite a few foreigners living in the capital, Prague, with their share exceeding 10%. It is important to note that many of these immigrants share cultural and social traits with the Czech population, which positively affects their perception: clothing style, cultural traditions, and religion often coincide.

Difficulties with identification

In fact, it can be quite difficult to immediately distinguish a foreigner from a Czech on the street until they start to communicate. Czechs are open to different nationalities, including Russian-speaking immigrants, which is comparable to their attitude towards Italians, Americans, and Jews. New immigrants often express concern about negative stereotypes that emerged many years ago, but this is no longer a relevant issue.

Language barriers and the possibility of integration

Maxim Petushkov, a representative of Sodul Development, emigrated to the Czech Republic in 2008 and emphasizes the importance of knowing the language for establishing connections with locals. Even if you are only taking small and hesitant steps in learning it, this evokes positive emotions among Czechs. It is not necessary to be fluent in the language, as many young Czechs speak English well, and among older citizens, Russian is still quite common. Moreover, the Czech language has a lot in common with Russian, making it easier to learn.

The Czech government has also provided mandatory integration courses for foreigners, which help them adapt more comfortably to new living conditions.

Lifestyle in the Czech Republic

Czechs are known for their measured way of life, preferring not to rush and clearly separating work time from personal time. They work according to a set schedule and rarely stay in the office later than necessary to finish their tasks.

Standard of living

At first glance, the cost of living in the Czech Republic may seem quite acceptable. Renting a small apartment in the residential areas of Prague, including utilities, will cost at least €500. Food expenses average around €100 per person per month, while transportation and communication add about €50 to the costs. People moving from Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia can expect monthly expenses ranging from €500 to €800, while their incomes vary from €600 to €700. This can raise doubts about the possibility of comfortable living, especially if your job is low-paying, such as that of a waiter.

Job prospects

There is a shortage of various specialists in the labor market in the Czech Republic, which creates opportunities for both skilled trades and qualified professionals with higher education. There is a high demand for:

• engineers
• medical workers
• IT specialists
• logistics
• about cooks
• waiters
• welders
• drivers
• seasonal workers
• equipment operators

The opportunities are indeed great, and those who are looking to find a job in the Czech Republic should be confident in their choice and open to new experiences.The advantages, such as an effective social protection system and access to quality education, make the Czech Republic an attractive place for living and professional activities.

In the Czech Republic, the average income before taxes is around €1030, while the minimum wage is set at €440. Basic workers, such as waiters, earn about €400, while drivers can expect to earn from €1000, and highly qualified professions, such as doctors, engineers, and IT specialists, earn at least €1400.

It should be noted that many Ukrainians arriving in this country mainly find work in construction. Russians, on the other hand, do not have a clear specialization and engage in various fields, including opening real estate agencies, shops, or transport companies. For example, recently one of my acquaintances started a business selling PVC pools.

How to get a job in the Czech Republic

If you want to delve into employment issues in the Czech Republic, keep reading.

Housing search

Since May 2009, foreigners have been able to search for housing in the Czech Republic. Since then, anyone interested can purchase both residential and commercial real estate. The country offers competitive mortgage rates, allowing even those without a residence permit or permanent registration to obtain a loan.

Utility costs

It's important to remember that buying real estate can reduce rental expenses, but fixed utility costs cannot be avoided. In addition to the mandatory property tax, which is approximately €30 to €50 per year, there are also common fees related to property management (approximately €30-50 per month). Furthermore, significant expenses arise for:

• Electricity (€40-100 per month)
• Water (€30-40)
• Gas (€10)
• Internet and phone services (€30-40)

Real estate market

In recent years, property prices in the Czech Republic have been rising due to economic progress, active investments, low mortgage rates, and a shortage of new properties. In particular, in Prague, housing prices have increased by 35% over two years, and the cost of one square meter now reaches around €3420. New developments in the outskirts of Prague are in particularly high demand.

Prices outside of Prague

It should be noted that when leaving the capital, even for a short distance, housing prices decrease significantly. For example, in Kladno, which is located 25 kilometers from Prague, the average price per square meter ranges from €1300 to €2000, depending on the type of property. To find out the current housing prices in the Czech Republic, one can use specialized online platforms.

Available housing options

In the Czech Republic, you can also find more affordable housing options. For example, in the Ústí Region, near popular thermal resorts, it is possible to buy an apartment for just €12,000 or €14,000.

Rental rates

Rental prices are also showing an upward trend: in 2017, they increased by 13.7% and averaged €8 per square meter per month. The highest rental rates are recorded in Prague, where the cost is around €13, varying by district from €6 to €17. In the cities of Brno and Olomouc, housing rental costs approximately €9 per square meter, while the lowest rates are noted in Ústí nad Labem and Karlovy Vary at €6 per square meter.

Cost of housing

In the capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, you can find various studios ranging in price from €350 to €1500. Another interesting city, Kladno, offers the opportunity to rent well-furnished apartments at prices from €250 to €300.

Education for foreigners

Speaking of education, foreigners wishing to study in the Czech Republic can submit their diplomas for free to local universities if they successfully pass the entrance exams in Czech. However, if the preparation for these tests is not successful, there is an alternative – studying in English, but for a corresponding fee.

The prices for education depend on the specific educational institution and the field of study.

• from €370 at the Czech University of Life Sciences in the field of "business administration";
• up to a significant €13,800 at Charles University for the specialty "dentistry".

Private universities and the cost of education

In private educational institutions, education is provided only on a paid basis, with prices comparable to those of state universities. Programs in English are slightly more expensive, with costs ranging from €2000 to €6500 per year.

Among the most well-known educational institutions in the Czech Republic are:

• Charles University
• Masaryk University;
• Economic University;
• Higher School of Finance and Management;
• Central University in Prague.

A diploma from a Czech university offers many opportunities for finding a job in other EU countries.

Training process

The educational process in the Czech Republic is an interesting and engaging experience. The courses offer a variety of programs, many independent assignments, and constant knowledge assessments.

The size of the pension in the Czech Republic

The average pension level in the Czech Republic is approximately 450 euros. However, this figure can vary significantly depending on factors such as work experience, salary size, and job position.

If you have worked throughout your career in Russia, the amount of your pension will be determined according to the conditions applicable to similar professions in the Czech Republic.

Maxim PetushkovIt is noted that "if you have worked, for example, in Russia during your life and want to receive a pension in the Czech Republic, transferring funds abroad will not be a problem. It is important to remember that the Czech pension depends on the contributions made in the Czech Republic."

Russian-speaking communities in the Czech Republic

In the Czech Republic, there are a large number of Russian-speaking communities. One of the most prominent organizations is“Russian tradition”engaged in organizing various cultural, scientific, and social events, publishing printed materials, and providing assistance in establishing connections with government institutions.

The main financial support comes from the Prague City Hall, the Ministry of Education and Culture, as well as from several funds.

Information resources

In addition, there are other Russian-speaking organizations and information platforms that talk about life in the Czech Republic. On social media, you can come across groups such as:

• Russians in the Czech Republic
• Prague - Karlovy Vary
• Russian doctors in the Czech Republic

The Russian Center for Science and Culture in Prague also helps to maintain cultural ties among Russian speakers.

PortalHello.czIt provides a wealth of advice and information for those who already live in the Czech Republic or are planning to move there. On this site, you can find solutions to various everyday issues that immigrants face.

Blogs and resources for learning the Czech language

There are blogs available on the internet that resemble a mini-encyclopedia about the Czech Republic, covering aspects of studying and life for newcomers. There are also platforms for learning the Czech language, for example,student-czand the method of Ilya Frank.

In Prague, there are no distinct areas where a large number of people from Russia or former socialist countries live. However, there are opportunities to meet and make friends with colleagues through language exchange.

Adaptation of Russian-speaking children

For Russian-speaking parents looking to ease their child's adaptation to Czech culture, there is an option to enroll the child in a local kindergarten. Information on how to register a child in a kindergarten can be obtained with a residence permit.

In the Czech Republic, it is common for children to be given more freedom for play and creative expression. Russian-speaking moms and dads note that their children become more open and self-confident, which helps them communicate with others, even if their knowledge of the Czech language is quite limited.

It's important to understand that there are no strict regulations regarding kindergartens in the country — it all depends on the specific institution.

These establishments are often located in residential buildings, which doesn't always allow for the organization of separate spaces for play and sleep, as is practiced in Russia. In this format, children can play and sleep in the same room at the same time; however, this is compensated by the presence of open play areas.

Holders of a residence permit can also enroll their children in kindergarten and school for free.

Admission to educational institutions

Admission questions to educational institutions can also be addressed through budget departments. Maxim Petushkov points out that children of different ages can study in the same class. Education is not focused on developing reading and writing skills from an early age; the emphasis is only on individual letters and numbers. It is important to emphasize that attending kindergarten before starting school is a necessary step.

Options for kindergartens

There is an opportunity to send a child to a kindergarten where the education is conducted exclusively inin the Russian languageor with the addition of other languages. Lists of kindergartens that offer such programs can be found online.

Education in public schools

As for educational institutions where instruction is conducted in Russian, it should be noted that state Czech schools provide...free educationEven for children with foreign citizenship. In practice, if a child has not attended a Czech kindergarten, it may take about a month to learn the language in a school environment, and confident speech develops later, once they have acquired the basic grammatical structures.

In public schools, the Russian language is hardly taught and often serves as an additional foreign language. At the same time, the Czech language is included in the curriculum of Russian educational institutions. For parents who want their child to adapt at a comfortable pace and receive a quality education, it is worth considering the option of studying in Russian educational establishments.

Welcome to Russian educational institutions

The most well-known of such educational institutions is the school at the Russian embassy, but attending it requires significant financial investment. There are also other options, such as educational institutions.Vedawhich accepts children from 1.5 years old and focuses on the development of mathematics, physical education, and language learning.

Services of the Russian Gymnasium

The Russian gymnasium serves as a center for additional education for children aged 2 to 15 years.First Slavic Gymnasium— an international school where both Czech and foreign students study, offering Russian as an additional subject.

Getting information about education in the Czech Republic

To always have up-to-date information about educational changes in the Czech Republic, it is helpful to regularly visit the website of the Ministry of Education. For information about kindergartens, schools, and nurseries, it is useful to refer to the resource.Atlas of Education.

Russian-Czech friendship

Among the organizations that promote the strengthening of Russian-Czech friendship, the most well-known has becomeRussian Center for Science and CultureIn the capital of the Czech Republic. On the partners' page, you can find an extensive list of official Russian representations, associations, media outlets, as well as institutions of science and education.

Festival of Contemporary Culture

In 2013, the first festival of contemporary culture was organized in Prague.KulturusThe initiator of this was the artist Anton Litvin. Since then, this festival has become an annual tradition, attracting more and more Russian-speaking migrants. On the festival's website, you can find announcements of events related to literature, cinema, language, and visual arts.

Pay attention to the community of Russian citizens living in the Czech capital, Prague. It is known as "Chekhoody." This group is associated with a powerful platform for posting ads and is generally characterized by low activity. Current news and information about events are updated infrequently. However, the "Community" section provides an opportunity to find numerous messages from Russian-speaking people, which can be quite useful for those looking for specific information.

Russian-speaking events

If you are interested in events for Russian speakers in the Czech Republic, you should check out platforms like 420on.cz, rupoint.cz, concertwith.me, and prague.eu. On these resources, you can find current events and programs in Prague. It's also important to keep an eye on Russian-language information sources, such as "Inform Prague," "Prague Telegraph," "Prague Express," and "Czechia Today." These resources provide up-to-date news and events in Russian for residents and visitors of the capital.

Russian stores in the Czech Republic

Speaking of Russian product stores in the Czech Republic, it is worth noting that the number of such stores is decreasing, which is directly related to the wide range of products offered by Czech supermarkets. It is rare, but sometimes certain products remain on the shelves, and Russian-speaking residents occasionally visit these places not so much for shopping as for nostalgia for familiar products. A complete list of stores where you can find Russian goods is often available online, but be careful: some small shops, like "Anyuta," have already closed. Prices for products can vary significantly and sometimes reach double or triple the levels compared to prices in Russia, Belarus, or Ukraine, which can be surprising.

• “Swallow”— a supermarket chain that offers not only a variety of products from Russia but also homemade dumplings, pastries, and the option to order a custom cake. Prices here are generally more affordable compared to small shops.
• “Russian delicacies”— two popular eateries located in the Prague 3 and Prague 9 districts, where the menu is constantly updated and expanded.
• Arbat Shopping CenterLocated in the Prague 6 area, it offers not only groceries but also jewelry, literature, films, and various household items.

Communication among Russian speakers

Russian immigrants in the Czech Republic do not strive to form closed diasporas and do not limit themselves to living in certain areas, which allows for broader social interactions. The presence of a Russian cultural center and groups on social media also creates additional opportunities for communication and integration. If you decide to enroll your child in a Russian school, it will help you meet other members of the Russian-speaking community. Moreover, Russian-speaking people often gather at concerts, as artists from Russia, including KVN performers and other well-known artists, regularly come to Prague.

Advantages and disadvantages of moving to the Czech Republic

Now let's take a detailed look at the advantages and disadvantages of moving to the Czech Republic. Positive aspects include a measured and calm pace of life, a low crime rate, and overall stability. The similarity of languages and geographical proximity also play an important role in the decision to move. However, for people used to the dynamic pace of life in big cities, the tranquility of Czech life may seem like a significant drawback.

Education and medicine

When it comes to educational opportunities, there is a chance to receive higher education for free in Czech or at an affordable cost in English in the Czech Republic. The level of medical services is also high, although some services may seem quite expensive. It is important to note that when choosing an insurance company, situations can vary: the cheapest insurance is not always the most beneficial.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the aspects of foreigners' lives in the Czech Republic discussed in the article highlight that this country truly represents an attractive destination for migrants from various corners of the world. Despite the complex processes of integration and adaptation, the opportunities that the Czech Republic offers are significant and diverse. Moving to this country can be an excellent opportunity to realize one's ambitions, whether it be studying, working, or investing in a business.

Cultural environment and mentality

I also noticed that the cultural environment of the Czech Republic and its mentality are favorable for new residents.Czech languageDespite its difficulties, it is quite accessible for learning, especially for people who speak Russian.Integration coursesThe measures that the authorities are planning to implement could significantly ease the adaptation process.

Standard of living

The Czech Republic also impresses with its high standard of living and accessible healthcare, making it even more attractive for safety and well-being. As can be seen, there are many Russian-speaking communities here, which provides additional comfort for those taking their first steps in a new country.

Pros and cons

Undoubtedly, there are pros and cons, and each migrant has to weigh them for themselves. However, the popularity of the Czech Republic is constantly growing: the country increasingly attracts foreign specialists, students, and investors. This indicates that the Czech Republic is successfully coping with the challenges of modernity, remaining an interesting and promising option for living.

In summary

Therefore, if you are considering life in the Czech Republic, you can expect numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth in this dynamic and friendly country.