Visiting a doctor or dealing with government offices can be stressful in itself. Many complications arise simply because we do not have all the necessary documents with us. Without a health insurance card, a doctor often cannot carry out an examination; without proof of identity, an official will not assist you; and when enrolling a child in school, it is necessary to provide proof of vaccinations.
To ensure these situations go as smoothly as possible for you, we have prepared an overview of documents that we recommend having with you at various institutions.
Rule No. 1 – Always carry identification documents with you
The obligation for foreigners to carry identification documents in the Czech Republic is primarily stipulated by Act No. 326/1999 Coll., on the Residence of Foreign Nationals in the Territory of the Czech Republic, which requires carrying a valid travel document and a residence permit card (if applicable). Furthermore, Section 36(5) of the Administrative Procedure Code imposes the obligation to present proof of identity upon request by an authorized official.
Foreigners with a visa or under a visa-free regime present a passport, while holders of a residence card present only this card, as follows from the Information on Proving the Identity of Foreigners issued by the Police of the Czech Republic. It is important to note that a photograph of the document on a mobile phone is not sufficient – a physical original of the document is required.
It is also recommended to carry proof of health insurance or proof of payment for commercial insurance.
For this reason, it makes sense for foreigners to prepare a small folder with documents that are always advisable to have with them. And if a visit to state institutions is planned, the list of required documents may be longer, as discussed below.
Going to the doctor: what you should definitely not forget
Doctors need to know your identity, insurance coverage, and basic information about your health condition. These documents are useful both for regular check-ups and for unexpected visits.
Základní dokumenty
- Health insurance card (VZP, OZP, etc.)
- Proof of identity – passport, ID card, biometric card
- Vaccination record – for both children and adults
- List of medications taken (can be handwritten or stored on a phone)
- Reports from specialists and older medical documentation
- List of allergies or health limitations
Special situations
- Pregnancy record booklet – essential at every check-up
- Diabetic, cardiology, or other specialized card, if you have one
- ZTP / ZTP-P disability card
Children: insurance card, vaccination record, and possibly a birth certificate at the first visit to a pediatrician
Long-term or serious diagnoses: keep copies of important medical reports
Offices and institutions: Be prepared
Requirements vary depending on the specific institution. The following overview will help you quickly find your way.
Department of Asylum and Migration Policy ( MOI/ OAMP)
- Passport or ID card
- Residence permit / visa sticker / biometric card
- Proof of accommodation (lease agreement, confirmation of secured accommodation)
- Photographs (if a new document is being issued)
- Children’s birth certificates
- Previous decisions or submitted applications
- Confirmation of health insurance
Labour Office
- ID card
- Proof of accommodation
- Employment contracts and income confirmation
- Decisions on benefits, if you are dealing with changes
- Children’s birth certificates (when applying for benefits)
- Record of employment (when applying for unemployment benefits)
Authority for Social and Legal Protection of Children (OSPOD) and municipal offices
- ID card or passport
- Children’s birth certificates
- Documents related to the specific situation – contracts, court decisions, medical and school reports
Schools and kindergartens
- Child’s birth certificate
- Insurance card
- Vaccination record
- Confirmation from a pediatrician, if required
- Parents’ contact details
For older children: report cards or confirmation of previous education
Banks
- ID card
- Residence permit
- Income documents (e.g. when applying for a loan)
- Account number, old contracts
Insurance companies (public or commercial)
- ID card
- Insurance contract
- Documentation related to an insured event (medical reports, police records)
Employer / job interview
- ID card or passport
- Work permit or residence card
- Proof of education
- Criminal record extract (sometimes required)
- Medical certificate, if required for an entry medical examination
Social services and non-profit organizations
- ID card
- Documents related to the specific situation: medical reports, contracts, official decisions
Practical tips to make your life easier
- Take photos of important documents on your phone. Mobile copies do not serve as originals, but they are useful in case of loss or emergency.
- Prepare a small folder with the documents you use most often. For example: passport, insurance card, children’s birth certificates, and medical documents.
- Before visiting an institution, always verify the requirements on its website. Some offices have specific forms or recommendations.
- For children, keep everything together – birth certificate, medical documentation, vaccination record.