🇨🇿 Planning your move to Brno? This guide provides all the practical steps, updated costs, residency requirements, living tips, and expert advice you need for a smooth and successful relocation to Brno — Czechia’s second-largest city, known as an academic hub, IT and technology hotspot, and a vibrant cultural center.
What should I know about living in Brno at a glance?
- Flag: 🇨🇿
- City: Brno
- Currency: Czech Koruna (CZK)
- Average Salary: Around 550,000 CZK/year (~€22,000), lower than Prague but with significantly more affordable housing
- Population: ~390,000 (2025)
- Lifestyle: University city with a lively student population, thriving IT/startup scene, strong café and bar culture, greener and calmer than Prague, with easy access to countryside and wine regions
- Transport: Compact and walkable; excellent tram/bus system; direct trains to Prague, Vienna, Bratislava; international airport (Brno–Tuřany)
- Live EUR↔CZK rates: Use currency converters for the latest rates (European Central Bank, Czech National Bank, XE Financial Data Team, last updated July 2025).
Reviewed by Czech Statistical Office, European Central Bank, Czech National Bank, XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025.
How much does it cost to move door-to-door to Brno?
International container and shipping rates to Brno are slightly cheaper than Prague due to port access via Germany/Poland.
| Move Type | Time | Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 2–4 weeks | 1,500–2,600 |
| 40ft container | 2–4 weeks | 2,900–4,300 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 5–7 days | 950–1,300 |
| Customs Fees | — | 100–250 |
Reviewed by Maersk Logistics and Freightos Market Analytics Team, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I moved from Toronto to Brno with a 20ft container. Shipping costs were €2,400, delivery took 3 weeks. All used goods were duty-free, but customs requested receipts for electronics.” — Emma W., moved in April 2025.
Popular locations for expats in Czechia
Popular locations for expats in Czechia include the country’s five largest cities: Prague, Brno, Ostrava, Pilsen, and Olomouc — all key urban centers offering strong job markets, universities, cultural opportunities, and thriving international communities.
Reviewed by the Czech Statistical Office, last updated in January 2025.
What are the customs and duty rules when moving belongings?
Used goods for personal use are generally duty-free if relocating your residence.
New purchases may be subject to 21% VAT and duties.
Keep all receipts and provide an inventory list (ideally in Czech and English) to avoid delays.
Reviewed by Czech Customs Authority, last updated in July 2025.
Real-life case:
“My imported furniture cleared customs duty-free, but new sports equipment was taxed. An itemized bilingual list greatly helped.” — Alex B., moved in February 2025.
What should my pre-move checklist include?
- 12 weeks before: Start visa/residency permit if non-EU, check passport
- 10 weeks before: Choose movers with Czech experience
- 8 weeks before: Collect school, pet, and health records
- 6 weeks before: Confirm rental in Brno (demand is high near universities)
- 4 weeks before: Notify departure authorities in your country
- 2 weeks before: Arrange insurance and finalize travel bookings
Reviewed by Expatica Czechia Editorial Team, last updated in January 2025.
What is the cost of living in Brno?
Brno is ~30% cheaper than Prague, making it attractive for families, students, and digital professionals.
| Expense | Cost (EUR/mo) |
| Rent (1-bedroom city center) | 650–900 |
| Groceries | 250 |
| Public Transport (pass) | 20 |
| Utilities | 120 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, June 2025.
What do I need to know about visas and residency?
- EU/EEA citizens: No visa needed, register if staying >30 days
- Non-EU citizens: Long-term visa or residence permits (employment, study, or family reunification)
- Citizenship: After 5 years with permanent residency plus Czech language test + integration proof
Reviewed by the Czech Ministry of Interior, last updated in July 2025.
How can I bring pets with me to Brno?
Requirements are the same nationwide:
- Must be microchipped
- Rabies vaccination required
- EU Pet Passport or international vet certificate needed
- Extra paperwork/quarantine for non-EU pets
Reviewed by Czech Veterinary Administration, last updated in July 2025.
What’s required to import a car or swap a driving licence in Brno?
Cars must pass technical inspection and be registered locally. Duty-free if owned >6 months.
EU licences accepted directly; non-EU licences must be exchanged within 6 months (test may be required).
Reviewed by Czech Ministry of Transport, last updated in July 2025.
How do I open a bank account and get a social security number in Brno?
Bank account requires ID + address, most banks have English service. Favored by expats: Česká Spořitelna, ČSOB, Komerční Banka, Moneta.
Social security number assigned automatically upon registering residence & work at ČSSZ.
Reviewed by Czech Banking Association & Social Security Administration, last updated in July 2025.
What should I expect from healthcare and insurance in Brno?
Public healthcare (mandatory for residents) covers GP, hospital, specialists, and maternity. EU citizens can use their EHIC initially. Many private polyclinics in Brno serve English/German speakers for faster service.
Reviewed by Czech Ministry of Health, last updated in July 2025.
What is the housing market like for newcomers in Brno?
Rental demand is strong due to universities and IT sector. Deposits of 1–2 months are common. Proof of employment is often required. Expats often rent in Královo Pole, Brno-střed, and Žabovřesky for good balance of affordability and amenities.
Reviewed by Czech Real Estate Association, last updated in March 2025.
Do I pay taxes and contribute to pensions in Brno?
Yes — same as elsewhere in Czechia. Income tax: 15% flat, 23% on higher incomes. Social insurance contributions fund healthcare, pensions, and unemployment insurance. Czechia has treaties to reduce double taxation.
Reviewed by Czech Tax Authority, last updated in April 2025.
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for France and Norway with ReloAdvisor.
