If you’re a foreigner or expat living in the Czech Republic, it’s important to understand your obligations regarding TV and radio licence fees—known locally as koncesionářské poplatky. These fees are mandatory for most residents and fund public broadcasting services like Czech Television and Czech Radio. This article will guide you through who needs to pay, how much it costs, and how to register or request an exemption.
Who Is Required to Pay the Licence Fee in the Czech Republic?
If you are a long-term resident, hold a permanent residence permit, or live in the Czech Republic with a valid visa longer than 90 days, you are likely required to pay the licence fee.
The obligation applies if you use or own any device capable of receiving radio or TV broadcasts. This includes:
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Televisions
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Radios
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Computers, laptops, tablets, or smartphones used for live streaming
As of May 2025, even households that only stream content online (e.g., via Česká televize’s website) are legally obligated to pay the fee.
How Much Are the Licence Fees in 2025?
From May 1, 2025, the monthly rates for the Czech TV and radio licence fees are:
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CZK 150 for television
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CZK 55 for radio
These fees are paid per household, not per individual or device. So if several people live together, only one payment is necessary, provided it covers all devices in the home.
How and When to Register
You must register to pay the licence fee within 15 days of:
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Moving into a property with a TV or radio
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Purchasing or starting to use a device capable of receiving broadcasts
You can register:
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Online via Czech Television
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At any Czech Post branch using the SIPO payment system
- The account number for the Czech Television license fee is 8029-1800060583 / 0300. You can find your variable symbol in the Payer’s Account after logging in.
SIPO allows you to combine multiple utility bills into one monthly payment.
Who Is Exempt from Paying the Fee?
Not all foreigners are required to pay the licence fee. You may be exempt if:
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You are staying in the Czech Republic short-term (e.g., tourist visa or short business stay)
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You do not own or use any device capable of receiving Czech TV or radio
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You are visually or hearing impaired to the extent defined by law
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Your household income is below a certain threshold (2.15 times the minimum living standard)
If you do not use any qualifying device, it’s recommended to file a written declaration (čestné prohlášení) with Czech Television or Czech Radio to officially claim exemption and avoid fines.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
Failure to register and pay the licence fee can result in fines:
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Up to CZK 10,000 from Czech Television
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Up to CZK 5,000 from Czech Radio
These fines may be enforced through legal proceedings, so it’s best to stay compliant.
Tips for Renters and Expats
If you’re renting an apartment or room, ask your landlord whether the licence fee is already being paid. If it’s not included in the rent, you may be responsible for registering and paying it yourself. Always clarify this when signing a lease.
Also, if you’re sharing a flat, only one person per household needs to register and pay.
Conclusion: Stay Informed, Stay Compliant
Paying the TV and radio licence fee in the Czech Republic is a legal duty for most residents—including foreigners with long-term visas. If you live here and use any device to receive TV or radio (even via the internet), it’s your responsibility to register and pay. Doing so helps support public broadcasting and avoids unnecessary penalties.
