The Czech language and civics exams for citizenship

What the two citizenship exams cover, who is exempt, and where they are taken.

What this actually is

Naturalisation applicants normally have to prove knowledge of Czech and of basic Czech realities — the constitutional system, geography and history. These are two separate exams, sat at accredited institutions rather than at a government office, and the certificates are then attached to the citizenship application. The level required for citizenship is higher than the level required for permanent residence, so an older permanent-residence certificate is not a substitute.

Who it applies to

Anyone applying for Czech citizenship by naturalisation who does not fall under an exemption.

When it's required

Before filing the citizenship application, since the certificates form part of the file.

Step by step

1
Check whether you are exempt
Applicants who completed schooling in Czech, and applicants above the exempt age, are commonly excused. The deciding office confirms whether an exemption applies to you.
2
Book at an accredited institution
The Ministry of Education publishes the list of institutions authorised to run the exams; places fill up well ahead of exam dates.
3
Prepare with the published materials
Sample papers and the syllabus for the realities exam are published, which is the most reliable guide to the level expected.
4
Keep the certificates
Certificates are issued in Czech and are submitted as originals with the citizenship application.

Documents to bring

Identity document for the exam
Exam feeSet by the institution; a resit is charged again

Who decides

Accredited exam institutions, under the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports

Official information

Ministry of Education, Youth and SportsOfficial source
Ministry of the Interior of the Czech RepublicOfficial source

Last checked: 3 September 2026

Exam levels, exemptions and fees change. Confirm the current requirements with the Ministry of the Interior and the exam institution before booking.