Requirements to teach English
in Czechia
Everything you need before you go — TEFL certificate, degree, apostilled documents, proof of funds, and the exact timeline to prepare for the Živno visa application.
Full requirements to teach English in Czechia
This is the complete checklist — what every non-EU teacher needs before, during, and after arrival. Start preparing at least 8 weeks before your target departure date.
120-Hour TEFL Certificate (in-person practicum required)
The absolute minimum for reputable language schools and the Živno visa application. Prague schools specifically reject online-only certificates — you need observed classroom hours. A Level 5 TEFL or CELTA is the strongest option and commands better rates with corporate clients.
Bachelor's Degree — any subject
Mandatory for non-EU citizens applying for the Živno trade licence. The Czech government requires it as proof of qualification. Public schools require it for all positions. Some private schools will hire without a degree but pay less and offer fewer hours.
Apostilled Criminal Background Check
Required for the Živno application. Must be issued by your national authority and apostilled for international recognition. Allow 4–6 weeks from the date you request it. This is the step that most delays teachers — start immediately once you decide to go.
Apostilled University Degree
Your original degree certificate must also be apostilled. Some embassies additionally require a certified translation into Czech. Check with your specific Czech embassy — requirements vary slightly by country of origin.
Valid Passport (6+ months remaining)
Standard requirement. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity beyond your intended stay and at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
Proof of Funds — ~156,500 CZK (~$7,000 USD)
The Czech government requires a bank statement showing this amount to demonstrate you can support yourself while your Živno and residence permit are processed. This is in addition to the practical startup costs you'll need on the ground.
Czech Address (arranged before application)
You need a registered Czech address to apply for the Živno at the Trade Licensing Office. Most teachers arrange a short-term rental before arrival, or use an address provided by a language school or visa agency for the initial registration.
Native or Near-Native English Fluency
Not a legal requirement, but a practical one. Most Czech language schools strongly prefer teachers from English-speaking countries. Non-native speakers with advanced qualifications and experience can find work but face significantly more competition.
Timeline: preparing before you leave
Request apostilled background check
This is the longest lead-time item. Order immediately. 4–6 weeks is typical, some countries take longer.
8 weeks outApostille your degree certificate
Contact your university for an official copy if needed, then submit for apostille. Some embassies require a certified Czech translation — check yours.
6 weeks outArrange Czech accommodation
Book at minimum a 1-month furnished rental in Prague or Brno. You need a registered address before you can apply for the Živno trade licence.
4 weeks outConfirm bank balance and savings
Ensure you have 156,500 CZK (~$7,000) in your account for the proof-of-funds requirement, plus ~$3,000 additional for flights, deposits, and first month's costs.
2 weeks outDepart with full document pack
Apostilled background check, apostilled degree, TEFL certificate, passport, proof of funds, Czech address confirmation. Keep originals and certified copies.
Departure dayEU citizens — much simpler: No Živno, no proof of funds, no apostilles required for the visa route. Register your address with the Czech Foreign Police within 30 days of arrival. You still need a TEFL certificate and degree to meet school hiring requirements.
Requirements by school type
| School Type | Degree Required? | TEFL Required? | Teaching Licence? | Other |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Language School | Strongly preferred | 120hr minimum | No | In-person interview standard |
| Business English / Corporate | Yes | 120hr+ (Level 5 preferred) | No | Business background a strong advantage |
| Public School (AIA) | Yes — any subject | Yes, if degree not in English | No | Previous experience strongly preferred |
| International School | Yes | Yes | Yes — home country licence | Most competitive entry |
| Private Tutoring | Helpful but flexible | Recommended | No | Need Živno to invoice legally |
Not sure if your qualifications qualify?
TEFL Heaven can give you a straight answer based on your actual situation — degree, TEFL level, nationality, and target city.