The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. All visitors must hold an onward or return ticket or proof of sufficient funds to buy a ticket, and all documents required for onward travel.
Proof of sufficient funds to cover stay, as well as complete health insurance may also be required. These must be produced on request at border crossing points. Visitors must sign a border-crossing card. Passports of all visitors must be valid at least 90 days beyond expiry date of the visa, or 90 days beyond period of intended stay for visa exempt nationals. EEA members just require a valid passport on entry. Visitors must register at the 'Authority of Aliens and Border Police' (can be done by hotels).
Americans: US citizens must have a passport valid for at least 90 days beyond period of intended stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to three months.
UK nationals: British citizens must have a passport, but a visa is not required. If passport is endorsed British National (Overseas), British Subject or British Overseas Territories Citizen with the right to abode in the UK then a visa is not required for a stay of up to three months. In all other cases, passports must be valid at least 90 days beyond expiry date of the visa and a visa is required.
Canadians: Canadians must have a passport valid for at least 90 days beyond period of intended stay. No visa is required for a stay of up to three months.
Australians: Australian citizens must have a passport valid for at least 90 days beyond period of intended stay. A visa is not required for a stay of up to three months.
South Africans: South Africans require a visa prior to arrival as well as a valid passport (must be valid for at least 90 days beyond expiry date of the visa). Visitors must register at the 'Authority of Aliens and Border Police' within three working days of arrival.
Irish nationals: Irish nationals must have a valid passport or a special (Emergency) passport. No visa is required.
New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens must have a passport valid for at least 90 days beyond period of intended stay. No visa is required for a stay of up to three months.
Health
There are no vaccination requirements for international travelers, and no major health risks are associated with travel to the Czech Republic. A reciprocal health agreement with the UK entitles citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to free emergency health care, however medical insurance is still advised. Visitors to forested areas should seek medical advice about immunization against tick borne encephalitis. Outbreaks of bird flu have been reported; the risk to travelers is low, but close contact with live birds should be avoided and all egg and poultry dishes should be well cooked as a precaution.
Safety
The majority of visits to the Czech Republic are trouble-free, although the country has a risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which it shares with the rest of the world. On 1 August 2004 an explosive device in the center of Prague injured 17 people, including tourists. Petty theft is on the increase, especially in Prague, and visitors should be vigilant about their belongings particularly on public transport and around the main tourist sites.
