Czechia
Central Europe • Europe
Overview
Czechia ranks 11th globally on the 2025 Global Peace Index - just outside the top 10 and ahead of all neighboring countries except Austria. The Zivno (freelancer) visa offers US citizens a path to long-term residency, requiring proof of 156,500 CZK (~$7,500) in funds and a trade license. Prague remains the hub for expats and digital nomads, though housing costs have risen sharply - city center one-bedrooms run 18,000-25,000 CZK monthly. Brno and Ostrava offer 30-40% lower costs. The country ranks 23rd on the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index with a score of 582, placing it in the upper-intermediate B2 category. US citizens qualify for public health insurance after arrival rather than needing private coverage.
Visa Options
Digital Nomad Visa (IT/STEM)
For IT and STEM professionals working remotely for companies with 50+ employees.
Živnostenský (Zivno) Visa
For freelancers and self-employed with Czech trade license.
Highlights
- ✓Ranked 11th safest country globally (2025 Global Peace Index)
- ✓6th in Travel Safety Index 2025 - ahead of Germany
- ✓Zivno freelancer visa pathway to long-term residency
- ✓US citizens qualify for public health insurance
- ✓Central European location - easy access to all of Europe
- ✓Prague public transit monthly pass only 550 CZK (~$25)
Considerations
- !Housing costs in Prague have risen sharply - consider Brno or Ostrava
- !Zivno visa requires proving business ties to Czechia
- !Digital nomad visa limited to IT/STEM professionals only
- !All documents must be translated to Czech
- !English proficiency moderate (23rd globally) - Czech helpful