- The best travel insurance plans for Czechia
- Current travel safety in Czechia
- Travel insurance requirements for entering Czechia
- Why take out travel insurance for Czechia?
- What should travel insurance for Czechia cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Czechia
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Czechia
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Czechia?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Czechia: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Czechia covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel-related events.
2. Legal obligation: Travel insurance is mandatory for US citizens and must cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation throughout your entire stay.
3. Healthcare cost: Healthcare is high-quality but can be costly; a hospital night may exceed $500 for tourists.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for Czechia typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers the entire Schengen Area if visiting neighboring countries.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share everything you need to know here to choose the best travel insurance for Czechia.
The best travel insurance plans for Czechia
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Our recommendation for comprehensive protection in Czechia. - high medical cap - repatriation included - modern, extensive guarantees |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Reliable for stays in Czechia, suitable for both city and rural travel. - 24/7 helpline - no deductible - trip cancellation option |
| Tourist Card | $0.55M | Solid choice for tourism and short visits. - decent medical cover - good emergency support - simple terms |
| Travel Pass Monde | $0.77M | Balanced for most travelers to Czechia. - hospital costs included - wide acceptance - civil liability covered |
| Globe Partner | $0.33M | Good for extended trips and exchanges. - core guarantees abroad - repatriation - basic medical support |
| Globe Traveller | $0.55M | Affordable for low-risk, short stays. - essential coverage - easy claims process - quick reimbursement |
- high medical cap
- repatriation included
- modern, extensive guarantees
- 24/7 helpline
- no deductible
- trip cancellation option
- decent medical cover
- good emergency support
- simple terms
- hospital costs included
- wide acceptance
- civil liability covered
- core guarantees abroad
- repatriation
- basic medical support
- essential coverage
- easy claims process
- quick reimbursement
Current travel safety in Czechia
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers that Czechia remains a safe country, with a Level 1 advisory recommending normal precautions across its territory.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: petty crime, particularly pickpocketing, is reported in Prague’s historic districts and on public transport. For example, travelers have had wallets stolen near Charles Bridge and Wenceslas Square.
- Health risks: while no vaccines are required for entry, tick-borne illnesses such as encephalitis and Lyme disease can occur when hiking or camping in forests between March and October. Western-standard healthcare is available in Prague, but rural access may be slower.
- Legal requirements: Czech law requires you to carry your passport at all times and present it to police on request. There is also a zero tolerance policy on drinking and driving, with roadside checks frequent in cities and on highways.
- Cultural and practical points: air pollution can reach high levels in winter, especially in urban areas like Ostrava, affecting those with respiratory conditions. An International Driving Permit is needed, and local taxis may operate with variable pricing, so pre-arrange fares when possible.
Travel insurance is mandatory to enter Czechia. It must cover at minimum medical care and repatriation costs, as these expenses can be significant in case of illness or accident during your stay.
Travel insurance requirements for entering Czechia
Travel insurance is mandatory for travelers from the United States to enter Czechia.
A valid travel insurance policy is required for all visitors, regardless of visa status, as part of the Schengen Agreement. The insurance must specifically cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation throughout your entire stay in Czechia. While there is no prescribed minimum coverage amount publicly specified, it is strongly recommended to choose a plan offering at least 30,000 euros (about $32,000) in medical coverage and valid across all Schengen countries. The certificate must be dated, signed, and compliant with entry requirements, and may need to be presented to border officials.
Why take out travel insurance for Czechia?
Travel insurance is a legal requirement for visiting Czechia.
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Czechia.
In Czechia, while public hospitals such as Motol University Hospital in Prague are modern, foreigners may be directed to private clinics like Canadian Medical or Prague Medical Center, where costs are considerably higher. In smaller cities, access to quality healthcare can be limited and private facilities often charge premium prices for consultations, emergency treatment, or hospitalization.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the United States in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Czechia.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Canadian Medical Clinic | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 35 000 CZK (about $1,500) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 18 000 CZK (about $770) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 400 000 CZK (about $17,000) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 75 000 CZK (about $3,200) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Czechia cover?
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Czechia.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations | Legally required |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital, doctor, and pharmacy fees for illness or injury in Czechia. We recommend a minimum limit of $100,000 per person. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🚑 Emergency repatriation | Pays for emergency medical transport back to the US if needed. Recommended limit: $100,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🛏️ Hospitalization | Covers inpatient treatment and surgeries in public or private clinics. Minimum recommended limit: $100,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 💊 Prescription drugs | Reimburses the costs of medicine prescribed during travel. Suggested minimum limit: $5,000. | 🟠 Recommended |
| 🛫 Trip cancellation | Reimburses non-refundable expenses for trip cancellation due to illness, accident, or other covered events. Recommended limit: $3,000–$5,000. | 🟡 Optional |
| 🧳 Luggage and belongings | Covers theft, loss, or delay of baggage and personal effects. Recommended minimum cover: $1,500. | 🟡 Optional |
| 🚗 Personal liability | Protects you if you cause accidental injury or property damage to others. Recommended minimum cover: $50,000. | 🟠 Recommended |
| 📞 24/7 assistance | Provides multilingual emergency support any time. No limit, but 24/7 phone line is vital. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
We recommend a minimum limit of $100,000 per person.
Recommended limit: $100,000.
Minimum recommended limit: $100,000.
Suggested minimum limit: $5,000.
Recommended limit: $3,000–$5,000.
Recommended minimum cover: $1,500.
Recommended minimum cover: $50,000.
No limit, but 24/7 phone line is vital.
Important information
Travel insurance with medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation is a legal requirement for visiting Czechia. The certificate must be valid for your entire stay, cover at least $50,000, and be provided in English or Czech if possible. This is required for short-term Schengen stays of up to 90 days.
Travel insurance from Czech banks or credit cards often has low limits and many exclusions. For greater peace of mind, choose a global insurer offering full medical and travel coverage. Compare offers on HelloSafe and buy your policy online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Czechia
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $16 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $32 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $54 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $110 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance policy is shaped by several key details: your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, the coverage amount, and any optional riders like trip cancellation. Keeping these elements in mind is essential to select the right plan for your needs and avoid any surprises on your journey.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Czechia
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Czechia while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🩺 Level of medical coverage | Medical costs are high for non-residents in Czechia, especially for emergencies or hospital stays. | Only choose coverage levels that match your personal health needs and travel plans. Compare low and mid-tier options carefully. |
| 🕰️ Trip duration | Insurance price is proportional to the number of covered days. Shorter trips cost much less for the same coverage. | Buy insurance only for the exact number of travel days in Czechia. Avoid adding extra days to keep premiums lower. |
| 🎒 Type of activities | Outdoor activities like hiking or cycling may require extended coverage for accidents and rescue. | Exclude coverage for adventurous sports or risky activities if you don't plan to participate in them. Stay with basic coverage. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Number of insured travelers | Family or group policies can be less expensive per person than buying individually, depending on the insurer. | Check bundled or group policy options for better rates. Compare costs with separate plans for each traveler in your group. |
| 🗺️ Geographical scope | Some plans automatically include all of Europe or worldwide, which can raise the price for a Czechia-only trip. | Select policies that cover only Czechia or the Schengen Area. Avoid unnecessary international coverage when your itinerary is local. |
| 🎂 Traveller's age | Insurers often raise prices for travelers over 60, sometimes significantly increasing costs. | Compare age brackets before buying. The insurer Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, which can help save on fees. |
| 🏥 Deductible | The deductible is what you pay before insurance covers costs. Higher deductibles result in lower premiums. | Opt for a higher deductible to lower your premium, if you can afford possible higher out-of-pocket costs for small claims. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Czechia?
It is completely reasonable to wonder whether your existing coverage, such as private or public health insurance or a credit card benefit, will be enough when traveling to Czechia. In fact, these protections are usually limited or insufficient. For travelers from the US, Czech authorities require valid travel medical insurance, as only this type of policy reliably meets entry requirements.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of Insurance | Valid in Czechia? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for medical care or emergencies outside the US. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ in medical and evacuation expenses. |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna) | Yes, partly | Emergency care abroad, usually up to $50,000. Rarely covers repatriation or trip issues. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for hospital, rescue, repatriation, and 24/7 assistance. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Amex Blue) | Yes, partly | May cover emergency medical expenses up to $2,500–$10,000. Excludes pre-existing, repatriation, trip issues. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ and includes hospital stays, repatriation, baggage loss, and trip cancellation. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Platinum, Visa Signature) | Yes, partly | Medical emergencies up to $50,000–$100,000, some trip/baggage delay coverage. No repatriation. | Travel insurance provides up to $500,000 medical, trip cancellation $5,000+, and 24/7 worldwide support. |
Example
While skiing in Czechia's Krkonoše Mountains, Mark had a bad fall, requiring helicopter rescue and surgery for a broken femur, totaling $25,000. His American Express Gold card's travel protection had a low limit, and his US health insurance didn't cover care abroad, leaving him to pay over $22,000 out-of-pocket.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative's illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to the trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Czechia?
No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short visits to Czechia for tourism or business purposes. You may stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period under the Schengen Agreement. A passport valid at least 6 months beyond your arrival date is required.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Czechia?
To buy travel insurance for Czechia, first compare plans, such as using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Next, review each plan’s coverage and any exclusions, especially those relevant to Czechia. Purchase your selected policy online and receive your insurance certificate, which may be required at entry.
What should my travel insurance for Czechia cover?
Your travel insurance should include coverage for medical care, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Additional coverage for baggage loss, trip cancellation, accidents, and personal liability is strongly recommended. Check that your policy meets Czech entry requirements and covers any planned activities.
Are healthcare services easily accessible in Czechia?
Yes, healthcare in Czechia is of western standard, and English-speaking doctors are generally available in major cities. However, access to rural clinics may be more limited and payment may be required upfront. Having insurance that covers direct payment or reimbursement is advisable.
Are there any health risks I should be aware of in Czechia?
Tick-borne encephalitis and Lyme disease can be risks if you plan outdoor activities such as hiking or camping, particularly between March and October. Vaccination is available for tick-borne encephalitis. Routine medical precautions and travel-specific coverage are recommended.
What should I do if I need medical attention during my trip?
If you need medical care, you can contact any local clinic or hospital, particularly in cities like Prague where English is widely spoken. For emergencies, dial 112. Most facilities require payment at the time of service, so keep your insurance details readily available for claims or direct billing.
Do I need a visa to travel to Czechia?
No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short visits to Czechia for tourism or business purposes. You may stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period under the Schengen Agreement. A passport valid at least 6 months beyond your arrival date is required.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Czechia?
To buy travel insurance for Czechia, first compare plans, such as using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Next, review each plan’s coverage and any exclusions, especially those relevant to Czechia. Purchase your selected policy online and receive your insurance certificate, which may be required at entry.
What should my travel insurance for Czechia cover?
Your travel insurance should include coverage for medical care, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Additional coverage for baggage loss, trip cancellation, accidents, and personal liability is strongly recommended. Check that your policy meets Czech entry requirements and covers any planned activities.
Are healthcare services easily accessible in Czechia?
Yes, healthcare in Czechia is of western standard, and English-speaking doctors are generally available in major cities. However, access to rural clinics may be more limited and payment may be required upfront. Having insurance that covers direct payment or reimbursement is advisable.
Are there any health risks I should be aware of in Czechia?
Tick-borne encephalitis and Lyme disease can be risks if you plan outdoor activities such as hiking or camping, particularly between March and October. Vaccination is available for tick-borne encephalitis. Routine medical precautions and travel-specific coverage are recommended.
What should I do if I need medical attention during my trip?
If you need medical care, you can contact any local clinic or hospital, particularly in cities like Prague where English is widely spoken. For emergencies, dial 112. Most facilities require payment at the time of service, so keep your insurance details readily available for claims or direct billing.
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