Learning Czech: free courses and language exchange
Every region has an integration centre with Czech courses that are usually free for legally resident foreigners. Add a language exchange to practise speaking, and aim for A2 if you want permanent residence.
Integration centres (centra na podporu integrace cizinců) exist in all Czech regions. They are open to all legally residing foreigners and to people with international protection. Their Czech courses are usually free, paid for by the state or EU funds. Some ask for a deposit that you get back when you finish the course.
If you need Czech for your job or to change jobs, the Labour Office (Úřad práce) can pay for a retraining course that includes Czech, if you meet its conditions. Search the courses at up.gov.cz.
Universities and private language schools offer paid courses, often in the evening. These are a good option if the free courses are full.
Classes alone will not make you speak. A language exchange (tandem) is the cheapest way to practise: you meet a Czech speaker who wants to learn your language and you split the time. Local Facebook groups and meetups are the usual place to find partners.
If you plan to apply for permanent residence, you will need the A2 Czech exam. cestina-pro-cizince.cz has mock tests, practice materials and exam registration.
In Brno
The Centre for Foreigners of the South Moravian Region (Centrum pro cizince JMK) at Kounicova 271/13 runs Czech classes. Most of its services are free. Open classes are for non-EU citizens, and each one needs its own registration on the centre's website. Courses are popular and fill up quickly.
Masaryk University's Language Centre runs Czech courses for the public and holds the A2 exam for permanent residence.
The Brno Expat Centre keeps a list of courses and language groups, and the 'Czech for foreigners in Brno' Facebook group organises meetings.
In Prague
The Integration Centre Prague (Integrační centrum Praha, ICP) is Prague's regional integration centre, founded by Prague City Hall. Check its website for current Czech courses and registration dates.
META, an NGO in Prague 3, runs Czech courses for children and students who moved from abroad, regardless of country or residence type.
Step by step
- Find your regional integration centre and sign up for its newsletter so you hear when registration opens
- Book a free course for your level as soon as registration opens
- If you need Czech for work, ask your Labour Office about retraining courses
- Find a tandem partner and meet once a week
- When you are ready, try the A2 mock test at cestina-pro-cizince.cz
Last checked 2026-11-11. Open this guide in the app to add the dates to your calendar.