Housing

Applicants for international protection are entitled to accommodation at one of the residential centres operated by the Ministry of the Interior. If they choose private accommodation, they may, in some cases, qualify for a financial contribution from the Ministry. If granted asylum, they can be included in the State Integration Programme for housing.

Foreigners in the Czech Republic can obtain housing through (sub)leasing or buying property.

The lease of a flat is governed by a lease agreement between the landlord and the tenant, which must be in writing.

If the lease duration is not specified in the agreement, it is considered to be for an indefinite period.

The rights and obligations associated with flat leases are regulated by the Civil Code and the terms of the lease agreement.

Termination of the lease:

  • By written agreement between the landlord and the tenant.

  • By the expiry of the agreed lease period.

  • By written notice of termination: The tenant can terminate without providing a reason. The landlord must always provide a justified reason.

For flats owned by a housing cooperative, the cooperative member occupies the flat based on a lease agreement with the cooperative and must adhere to the cooperative’s statutes.

When using a leased flat or a cooperative-owned flat/house, it is necessary to arrange for services such as electricity, gas, and municipal waste collection.

Another option for housing arrangements is purchasing property. Since 1 May 2011, there are no restrictions on property ownership for foreigners. The purchase of a house or flat is conducted through a written purchase contract between the buyer and the seller; without a written contract, the transaction is invalid. The entire process, from signing the purchase contract to registering ownership in the land register, can be complicated and may take several months. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a real estate expert, such as a lawyer or real estate agent, to assist with the process.

You can search for real estate for lease or purchase here or here.

A mortgage is a loan used to purchase or construct a flat or house, or to renovate a property. Applicants can be individuals (natural persons) or legal entities. Mortgages are provided by banks, each with its own conditions. For more details, contact the bank of your choice.

Building savings is another way to finance the purchase, construction, or renovation of a flat or house. Individuals with permanent residence in the Czech Republic and a Czech national identification number, including foreigners, can open a building savings account. For more information, contact any building society. You can start here.

FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION AND SUPPORT IN FINDING OR MAINTAINING HOUSING, SEE Handbook for Renting Accommodation in Czechia OR CONTACT SIMI’S SOCIAL DEPARTMENT.