Opening a bank account
Most people open a Czech account in their first weeks, because salaries, rent and many bills are paid by bank transfer. Bring your passport, a second ID and your residence document, and have a Czech phone number ready.
A Czech bank account (bankovní účet) makes everyday life much easier. Employers pay wages into it, landlords usually expect rent by transfer, and many bills are paid from it.
Banks usually want two forms of identification: your passport and a second document, such as a driving licence. Many will also ask for your residence permit, your work contract or your student card. Bring all of them to the first appointment so you do not have to come back.
You will need a working Czech phone number. Banks send codes by text message to confirm payments and log-ins, so a foreign number can cause problems.
Fees vary a lot. Many accounts have a monthly fee, and some are only free if you send in a minimum amount each month or use the card regularly. Read the price list (sazebník) before you sign.
Several of the big banks offer internet and mobile banking in English, and some have English-speaking staff in certain branches. Ask in advance rather than assume. Opening an account fully online is often only possible once you have a Czech permanent residence card or citizenship, so most newcomers go to a branch.
If you live legally in the EU, you have a right to a basic payment account (základní platební účet). The bank may charge a fee, but it should be reasonable. A bank can refuse you if you do not meet anti-money-laundering checks, or if you already have a similar account in the country.
Your birth number (rodné číslo), if you have one, is printed on your residence card. Banks and other offices often ask for it.
In Brno
Brno Expat Centre suggests calling the branch before you go to check that an English-speaking banker will be there.
Step by step
- Get a Czech SIM card first.
- Check two or three banks' price lists and English-language support.
- Call or book an appointment at a branch and ask whether staff speak English.
- Bring your passport, a second ID, your residence document and your work contract or student card.
- Read the contract and fee list before signing, and ask what the monthly conditions are for a free account.
- Set up mobile banking and confirmation by text or app before you leave the branch.
Last checked 2026-11-11. Open this guide in the app to add the dates to your calendar.