Brno, the City that Brought Me Back: The story of Leman from Turkey

#LifeInCzechia Sometimes you can feel stuck in your comfort zone. If you surround yourself with visionaries, inspiring books, and movies, you suddenly jump to the place where the magic happens. I found myself in Brno as an Erasmus exchange student from Istanbul while I was doing my Ph.D. four years ago.  Now I am back in the city as an intern at the Foreigners agency. I would like to share my experiences and also what made me come back to this beautiful place? So let’s dive right in!

Ticket Inspection in Brno: How to Avoid Getting Fined?

#LifeInCzechia Are you new to Brno? Do you plan to use public transport? If your answer is yes, keep reading. First days are always hard. You are getting used to the new environment, and so maybe you can’t focus on every detail and you can miss important things. As a new resident of Brno, originally from Turkey, I would like to inform you about ticket inspection and fines in the Brno Public Transportation System. So let’s learn about the ticket process together to avoid ourselves getting fined. 

Tips on Traveling from and to the Czech Republic in the Times of Coronavirus

Coming to the Czech Republic as a tourist? Or maybe as a new student? Due to the current coronavirus restrictions, which will probably stick around for a while, traveling abroad might be a bit more tricky than usual. However, you can still enjoy it as much as possible if you take care of some important matters first, such as filling out the Passenger Locator Form.

Fly on the Plane, Take the Bus, Hop on the Tram: Czech Public Transport System

Since the Czech Republic is located in the heart of Europe, it is often used as a transitory point, which is why it’s so easily accessible. The country’s inter-city connections and public transport system are excellent as well. But not all public city transport systems are alike! For example, did you know that Prague is the only Czech city with a metro? And have you heard of the unique night bus system operating in Brno? Read more in our article.

Coronavirus in Czechia: Third-Country Vaccination Certificates, Stricter Airport Checks, Booster Shots, and More

Let us help you stay on top of the most recent COVID-19 news! While fully vaccinated citizens of selected countries will be allowed to enter Czechia for any reason without restrictions, international airports are coming up with stricter checks. Additionally, the Ministry of Health announces the option to get a booster shot after 8 months and the black category has been eliminated from the traveler’s map.

Coronavirus in Czechia: Changes in the O-N-T System, New COVID-19 Status App, and More

Due to the growth in the delta variant of COVID-19 infections, the government has decided to amend the O-N-T system (the vaccination-disease-test system). Specifically, one dose of the two-dose vaccines will no longer be sufficient to travel and use services from 9 July. Blanket testing in companies has ended, but some testing will still be required. Two different mobile apps were launched to help display and check one’s COVID-19 status.

Coronavirus in Czechia: Most Recent Restriction Relaxations & Easements in Travel

The government has decided to relax some of the last restrictions valid in Czechia. These changes will come into effect on 26 June. Travel will become significantly easier in Europe for summer holidays. Third-country citizens may be able to enter Czechia if they’ve been vaccinated with an EU-approved vaccine from 1 July. On the same date, vaccine registration will open for children over 12 years of age.

Which Enjoyable Benefits Come with a Residence Permit?

Would you like to purchase internet services, apply for a mortgage, register your car or be able to return to Czechia in case of emergencies? If you are an EU citizen or a family member of an EU citizen living in Czechia, you will be able to with a residence permit. Although applying for one may seem like too much of a bother, the benefits greatly outweigh the bureaucracy. Above all, they will make your life in Czechia much easier.

Coronavirus in Czechia: Vaccine Registration for Self-Paying Foreigners from 11 June, Surgical Masks from 1 July, “COVID-19 Pass” Approved by the EU

Foreigners living in Czechia who do not have public insurance should finally be able to register for their COVID-19 vaccine. This should be possible from 11 June. People may be allowed to wear surgical masks in shops and on public transport as of 1 July. The European Union has approved the so-called “COVID-19 pass”. It should launch at the beginning of July.

Coronavirus in Czechia: Masks Off in Schools and Offices from 8 June, EU and Serbian Citizens Allowed to Czechia from 21 June

As of 8 June, teachers, students and preschool children will no longer have to wear masks during class and exams. Employees sharing one office can also take off their respirators. The number of people who are allowed to gather for events and sports has gone up. The government has also decided that as of 21 June, people from all of the EU and Serbia will be allowed to enter Czechia.