🇨🇿 Planning your move to Olomouc? 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 Olomouc — a historic university city often called “the hidden gem of Moravia,” known for its baroque architecture, UNESCO heritage, and vibrant student scene.
What should I know about living in Olomouc at a glance?
- Flag: 🇨🇿
- City: Olomouc
- Currency: Czech Koruna (CZK)
- Average Salary: Around 480,000 CZK/year (~€19,500), reflecting the lower-cost local economy
- Population: ~100,000 (2025)
- Lifestyle: Strong student vibe (Palacký University), affordable cost of living, rich history and culture, excellent green spaces
- Transport: Local tram/bus system, well-connected by train to Prague (2.5 hours) and Brno (1 hour)
- Live EUR↔CZK rates: Use live currency converters (European Central Bank, Czech National Bank, XE Financial Data Team, July 2025).
Reviewed by Czech Statistical Office, European Central Bank, Czech National Bank, XE Financial Data Team, last updated July 2025.
How much does it cost to move door-to-door to Olomouc?
Shipping is routed through Hamburg/Koper ports, then inland to Moravia.
| Move Type | Time | Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 3–5 weeks | 1,600–2,700 |
| 40ft container | 3–5 weeks | 3,000–4,400 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 6–8 days | 950–1,250 |
| Customs Fees | — | 100–250 |
Reviewed by Maersk Logistics and Freightos Market Analytics, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote.
Real-life case:
“I moved from Belgium to Olomouc with a 20ft container. Final costs were €2,100, and delivery took just over 4 weeks. Used furniture was cleared duty-free, but customs checked new electronics.” — Isabelle L., moved in March 2025.
Popular locations for expats in Czechia include the country’s five largest cities: Prague, Brno, Ostrava, Olomouc and Pilsen — all key urban centers offering strong job markets, universities, cultural opportunities, and thriving international communities.
Reviewed by Czech Customs Office, last updated in July 2025.
What are the customs and duty rules when moving belongings?
- Used belongings: Generally duty-free with proof of relocation
- New goods: Subject to 21% VAT and customs duties
- Restricted items: Firearms, medical drugs, etc. need permits
- Pro tip: Provide bilingual (CZ/EN) inventory lists
Reviewed by Czech Customs Office, last updated in July 2025.
Real-life case:
“My household goods cleared easily, but a new TV bought abroad was taxed 21%. Lesson: don’t bring brand-new items.” — Patrick G., moved in February 2025.
What should my pre-move checklist include?
- 12 weeks before: Apply for residence visa (if needed), verify passport
- 10 weeks before: Choose movers familiar with inland Czechia
- 8 weeks before: Compile personal, educational, pet medical records
- 6 weeks before: Confirm rental accommodation near Olomouc center or university
- 4 weeks before: Notify home authorities of departure
- 2 weeks before: Arrange insurance, open bank account, final travel bookings
Reviewed by Expatica Czechia Editorial Team, last updated in January 2025.
What is the cost of living in Olomouc?
Living costs are among the lowest in Czechia for a large city.
| Expense | Cost (EUR/mo) |
| Rent (1-bedroom city center) | 500–700 |
| Groceries | 230 |
| Public Transport (pass) | 15 |
| Utilities | 100 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, last updated in June 2025.
What do I need to know about visas and residency?
- EU/EEA nationals: Free movement, only register stays >30 days
- Non-EU nationals: Require long-term visas or residence permits (work/study/family)
- Citizenship: After 5 years with permanent residency + Czech language exam
Reviewed by Czech Ministry of Interior, last updated in July 2025.
How can I bring pets with me to Olomouc?
- Pets must be microchipped and rabies vaccinated
- EU Pet Passport or equivalent international vet certificate required
- Quarantine only for high-risk countries
Reviewed by Czech Veterinary Administration, last updated in July 2025.
What’s required to import a car or swap a driving licence in Olomouc?
- Register your car locally after customs clearance and technical inspection
- Cars owned >6 months abroad usually duty-free
- EU licences valid; non-EU ones must be swapped within 6 months
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 Olomouc?
- Bank account: Requires ID + proof of Czech address (major banks: ČSOB, Česká Spořitelna, Komerční banka)
- Social security number: Issued automatically upon residence + work registration at ČSSZ
Reviewed by Czech Banking Association & Social Security Agency, last updated in July 2025.
What should I expect from healthcare and insurance in Olomouc?
- Faculty Hospital Olomouc is one of Czechia’s top medical centers
- Public health insurance covers most treatments for residents
- Private options available for faster English-speaking care
Reviewed by Czech Ministry of Health, last updated in July 2025.
What is the housing market like for newcomers in Olomouc?
- Lower rental costs than Prague/Brno
- Security deposits: typically 1–2 months’ rent
- Popular expat/student housing areas include Nová Ulice and Hejčín
- Family expats often choose Neředín and Řepčín for space and calm
Reviewed by Czech Real Estate Association, last updated in March 2025.
Do I pay taxes and contribute to pensions in Olomouc?
Yes — same as elsewhere in Czechia: 15% income tax, 23% higher rate for incomes above CZK 1.9 million/year. Social contributions cover pensions, unemployment, and healthcare.
Reviewed by Czech Tax Authority, last updated in April 2025.
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
Use the volume calculator, book a video survey, or visit the ReloAdvisor website for relocation support tailored to Olomouc.
