Before you start

Unlocked handset
Passport for registration
Czech address and bank account, for postpaid

Step-by-step

1
Use EU roaming as a bridge
Arriving from another EU country, your existing SIM works at domestic rates. No urgency on day one.
In personWho: You
2
Buy a prepaid SIM
Available from operator shops, supermarkets and kiosks. Registration requirements are lighter than in most of the region.
In personWho: YouCommonly CZK 200–500 including credit
3
Consider a reseller
Kaktus and Mobil.cz run on the major networks at noticeably lower prices, generally without contracts.
OnlineWho: You
4
Move to postpaid if you want a handset deal
Contracts require a Czech address and bank account for direct debit, and sometimes a residence permit.
In personWho: You

Documents you’ll need

Passport
Czech address and bank account, for postpaid

Things most newcomers don’t know

Czech mobile is pricier than neighbouring Poland, so resellers matter more.

The three main networks price above regional norms. Kaktus and Mobil.cz run on the same infrastructure for substantially less, which is a meaningful saving over a year.

Source: community-reported, corroborated by EU price comparisons

EU roaming removes any day-one pressure.

Your existing EU SIM works here at domestic rates, so you can compare plans after you've settled rather than at an airport kiosk.

Source: EU roam-like-at-home rules

Coverage is strong nationwide, including on the trains.

If you plan weekend trips to Brno, Kutná Hora or the mountains, all three networks handle it well. Choose on price rather than coverage.

Source: community-reported