1) Switching to Public Health Insurance
Once you start working, your employer will register you in the Czech public health insurance system.
Before that happens:
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Make sure you know the exact date when your public insurance starts.
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Shorten your private insurance so that it ends on the same date.
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Get written confirmation of the transition (you’ll need it for doctors or the Foreign Police).
Attention: If your job start date is postponed, don’t let your private insurance expire!
A gap in coverage means trouble — both legally and medically.
2) What to Do When You Need Medical Treatment
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Call the assistance service first – the insurance company will contact the hospital for you and issue a payment guarantee.
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If you have to pay on the spot, keep the invoice with the diagnosis and treatment date.
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Send all documents to the assistance service within 48 hours – most companies accept them by email or online form.
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Write down your case number – without it, you can’t check the payment status later.
3) How to Extend Your Insurance
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Start at least 30 days before submitting your visa extension application.
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Your new insurance must follow directly after the old one, with no gap in coverage.
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Always request a new certificate in both Czech and English.
4) What to Save on Your Phone
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PDF version of your insurance contract
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Certificate (CZ/EN)
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Assistance contact number
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Invoices or payment receipts
💡 Practical tip: Create a folder called “Insurance – CZ” on your phone.
During a medical visit or police check, this saves a lot of explaining.
5) Quick Checklist by Situation
|
Situation |
What to Do |
|---|
|
Starting a new job |
Confirm your transition to public insurance and shorten your private policy |
|
Expecting a baby |
Check the coverage limit and waiting period in your contract |
|
Traveling abroad |
Make sure your insurance is valid outside the Czech Republic |
|
Need to see a doctor |
Call the assistance service before you pay |
|
Extending your visa |
Arrange a new policy at least 30 days in advance |
