Guidance

Arrested or in prison in Czechia

This guide provides information about being arrested in Czechia and what conditions are like in prison there.

• From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
• Published: 5 August 2026

Contacting the British Embassy in Prague

The British embassy in Prague can offer help but will not be able to get you out of prison or get you special treatment because you’re British. Find out what help the embassy or consulate can offer.

Family and friends can contact:

• the British Embassy in Czechia

• the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London on +44 (0)20 7008 5000

British Embassy Prague

Thunovská 14
118 00 Prague 1
Czechia

Tel: (+420) 257 402 111

Finding a lawyer and translator

Find a lawyer in Czechia

You should carefully consider getting a local Czech lawyer. Discuss all costs with them in advance.

Prisoners Abroad has information on appointing a lawyer and legal aid (not specific to Czechia.

Private lawyers

Check the list of local English-speaking lawyers if you want to appoint your own private lawyer. Ask the British embassy in Prague if you need a paper copy.

You can hire a lawyer for yourself at any time after your arrest. Normally, if you hire a private lawyer, they will ask for a cash advance for their estimated legal fees before they will take your case on, but the arrangements may vary. The British Embassy cannot pay legal fees or guarantee to a lawyer that you will pay them.

Legal aid

You may be eligible for legal aid, depending on the circumstances of the case and the seriousness of the alleged offence. If the court appoints a lawyer, the state covers their costs and remuneration.

Eligibility is based on financial need – you must demonstrate that you cannot afford legal representation. The court assesses each request individually. Legal aid is not available for all types of proceedings – it depends on the nature of the case and the relevant statutory rules.

Applications for legal aid are submitted to the court handling the case, which reviews the request.

If legal aid is not granted, you may continue without legal representation or seek advice‑only support from NGOs or counselling centres.

Court-appointed lawyers

If you do not appoint your own private lawyer, you may request a court‑appointed lawyer. Should you later decide to hire a private lawyer, the case will be transferred to the new representative.

Public defenders do not always visit their clients regularly, and communication between you and the defender may take place in Czech, although some public defenders also speak English.

Costs of a trial

In criminal proceedings, trial costs are generally covered by the state. However, in certain situations specified by law, if you are found guilty, the court may require you to reimburse some or all the expenses. This may include legal representation costs, remand (detention) costs and/or court fees after the final judgment.

Find a translator or interpreter in Czechia

You may need a translator to help you read Czech documents about your case. Do not sign any documents unless you understand them. You might need an interpreter to help you communicate with your lawyer or at your trial, or for prison visits.

Search for an English-speaking translator or interpreter in Czechia.

The British Embassy cannot pay for your interpretation costs in any circumstance.

What happens when you’re arrested in Czechia

You can be arrested and taken to a local police station:

• because of an existing arrest warrant
• where there are grounds for issuing an arrest warrant
• if you’re caught in the act of performing a crime
• if it’s expected you’ll leave the country to escape justice
• your identity cannot be confirmed

The police must tell you in English (or a language you understand):

• why you’ve been arrested
• that initial proceedings against you have started
• your rights

Do not sign any documents unless you understand them – you must be given an interpreter if you ask for one.

Your rights

You have the right to:

• remain silent and refuse to cooperate in the proceedings
• appoint a defence lawyer of your choice, speak with them in private, and request their presence during interviews
• ask for the help of a duty defence lawyer if you do not have one
• receive legal aid, depending on circumstances and the seriousness of the alleged crime
• ask for an interpreter; the police will provide one for interviews and for interpreting the written report before you sign it
• inform your next‑of‑kin that you have been arrested (unless this would hinder the investigation or is excessively difficult; in practice this may not always be provided)
• inform the British embassy or consulate that you have been arrested
• receive food, water, a bed, and necessary medical care during detention

How long you can be held for

After being detained by Czech police, within 48 hours you must be:

• informed of the reasons for detention
• interviewed
• either released or brought before a judge

The judge then has 24 hours to decide whether you should be set free or remanded in custody.

Being put on remand

You may be put on remand if you’re strongly suspected of committing an offence. This means you’ll be put in prison while you wait for the criminal investigation and trial to finish.

Prisoners on remand are kept separately from sentenced prisoners. Your rights and conditions differ and conditions when you are on remand may sometimes be tougher than when serving a sentence.

How long you can be on remand for

The maximum time a person may be held on remand depends on the seriousness of the alleged offence. It can range from days up to 4 years in the most serious cases, such as offences punishable by exceptional penalties (20 to 30 years’ imprisonment or life).

These maximum time limits cannot be exceeded, reaching the maximum permitted period requires the detainee’s immediate release.

The only exception is when remand is ordered due to concerns about interference with witnesses or obstruction of the proceedings. In these cases, the maximum pre‑trial detention may be limited to 3 months. The court must review the reasons for the pre-trial custody every 3 months and decide whether to continue it, or to release the charged person.

Bail

Bail can be considered if you are detained due to concerns about escape or continuing criminal activity.

Bail will not be granted if there are concerns about influencing witnesses or obstructing proceedings or for very serious crimes.

The amount of bail is set by the court, and will reflect your financial situation.

After bail has been posted, the court must again review the grounds for bail and decide whether to accept or refuse the bail. If bail is granted, the court may require you to stay in the country.

Bail may be revoked if you violate the conditions.

The embassy or consulate cannot transfer bail funds for you.

Arriving at prison

Upon admission, you will be given a thorough personal search for injuries, forbidden objects, and weapons. Searches are always conducted by a guard of the same sex.

Each new prisoner receives:

• bedding (blanket, sheet, bed clothes, towel)
• basic hygiene items (soap, toilet paper, toothpaste, toothbrush, disposable razor)
• prison clothing (sweatshirt, T‑shirt, trousers, underwear)

Initial Procedures (usually within one week)

• interview with a psychologist or other specialist -medical examination is conducted
• administrative procedures, including having a photograph taken

Personal belongings

You may keep certain personal items with you, such as documents relating to your case, letters, photos, books, and basic hygiene products. Other belongings (including money, valuables, and identity documents) will be confiscated and stored by the prison for safekeeping.

You can wear your own clothes if you have access to regular clean replacements from family or friends. Otherwise, prison‑issued clothing is used.

Your prison cell

Overall prison conditions in Czechia are generally good, but overcrowding is common.

Conditions are worse in remand (pre‑trial) prisons. Remand prisoners cannot usually join educational, sports, or work activities, because you are expected to stay only a short time (average stay is about 100 days).

Prisoners held on remand spend up to 23 hours a day locked in their jail cells, where there sometimes is no access to warm water and also not to electricity (apart from lights switched on and off by the guards from outside).

Contacting the British embassy or consulate

Tell the prison if you want the British embassy or consulate to know you’re in prison.

Medical check-up

A medical examination is part of the initial admission and is usually completed within the first week. If you have a medical condition or require medication, the prison doctor must review and approve all medicines.

Prisoners cannot bring medication from home or receive it by post unless it is prescribed or authorised by the prison doctor.

Contact the British embassy or consulate if you need help getting your medical notes from the UK.

Rights and responsibilities in prison

The prison must tell you your rights and responsibilities. You will receive ‘Instruction for accused upon admission into prison’ in English or a language that you understand.

Letters and packages

You can receive postal parcels containing non‑perishable food, books, or personal items weighing up to 5 kg every 3 months

These limits do not apply to parcels with replacement clothes, books, newspapers, magazines or (for remand prisoners only) personal hygiene items.

Visits from family or friends

Check the FCDO travel advice before travelling to Czechia for safety, entry rules, and alerts.

To receive visits, you must fill out a visit application form (“POVOLENKA”), available from prison guards, and send it to the prison director. Visits must always be arranged in advance and initiated by the detainee. Your lawyer or the prison can explain the rules.

How many visits you’re allowed

Remand prisoners

You can receive up to 4 visitors once every 2 weeks, for up to 90 minutes. Lawyer and consular visits are not counted. In exceptional situations, the prison director may allow visits more frequently or extend them.

Sentenced prisoners

Each prison sets its own rules. Generally, you can have up to 3 hours of visits per month, with up to 4 visitors at once (including minors). Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Visits usually take place on weekends or holidays.

Arranging visits

To arrange a visit, submit a visit‑approval application in an unsealed envelope to the prison staff. They will set the visit date, stamp and seal the envelope, and send it to the visitor. Once you know the visit date, you may inform your visitor and make any needed arrangements.

Remand prisoners

If you are remanded because it is though that you may influence witnesses or obstruct the investigation, your application must be sent to the investigating authority, which sets the visit date. A prison guard may be present during the visit. These visits usually take place on working days.

Sentenced prisoners

You must apply for a visitor permit from prison authorities and send the approved permit to the visitor. Visits normally take place on weekends or holidays.

During the visit

Visitors must present an ID with a photo (e.g., passport) and bring the approved visit confirmation. They will pass through security checks and may need to store prohibited items (phones, keys, flash drives) in lockers. Visits occur in designated areas with a guard present. Repeated rule violations can lead to interruption or cancellation of the visit.

What visitors can take with them

Visitors may bring parcels, but they can only contain items permitted by prison rules.

Prohibited items include phones, keys, and flash drives.

Visits from British embassy or consulate staff

The Embassy will contact you as soon as they are informed of your arrest. If you want, they will visit you during pre‑trial detention. If you are sentenced, they may visit once more.

Regular visits are not routine because Czech prison conditions generally meet international standards. They will not visit you if you request no contact.

If you do not respond about a consular visit, they will try to contact you once more. You may write to them anytime about concerns; for urgent matters, prison authorities can contact them on your behalf.

During consular visits, you may discuss health, treatment, legal issues, language barriers, or other concerns. Staff will complete a “visit report form.” If there is information you do not want shared with your next of kin, inform them during the visit.

Money

The British embassy or consulate does not provide financial assistance to prisoners.

Money transfers from family or friends

You may receive money sent from family or friends, and funds can be transferred to the prison through official channels. Money must be sent by bank transfer.

Cash cannot be sent through the post. You will need to ask the prison authorities for the correct bank account details to provide to your family or friends, as these details vary by prison

Prison accounts

Any money you have at admission will be stored securely by the prison. This includes funds that may later be deposited for your use.

Money held on your behalf can be used to purchase items permitted under prison rules, such as food from the prison shop or other approved goods.

How to make a complaint about mistreatment

The British embassy in Prague can help if you have been mistreated or abused. We will take all complaints seriously. Tell us first if you decide to make a complaint. We will ask your permission before taking any action.

The embassy will try to visit you to check your welfare, discuss the allegations, and explain local complaint procedures and support organisations. With your permission, and when appropriate, we may approach the local authorities if you have not been treated in line with internationally accepted standards.

If you believe you have been mistreated, you should try to:

• see a doctor
• obtain a medical report
• take photos of any injuries, if possible

You can ask social workers or guards to submit a complaint on your behalf to the custody manager or prison director, who will investigate it according to the prison’s internal rules.

You may also submit a complaint in writing to a higher authority than the one you are complaining against.

Complaining to the Directorate General of the prison service

General Directorate of the Prison Service of the Czech Republic
Soudní 1672/1a
140 67 Prague 4

Complaining to Complaints and Inspection Department of the Prison Service and Probation and Mediation Service

Ministry of Justice, Complaints and Inspection Department of the Prison Service and PMS
Vyšehradská 16
128 10, Prague 2

Your investigation and trial in Czechia

The Czech justice system differs significantly from the UK model. The Constitution of Czechia establishes courts as independent bodies responsible for safeguarding rights and determining guilt and sentencing in criminal matters, with administrative oversight handled by the Ministry of Justice. Criminal cases are heard at different judicial levels, with district courts addressing less serious offences and regional courts handling crimes carrying potential sentences of 5 years or more.

Czech criminal proceedings follow an inquisitorial model in which a presiding judge, or panel of judges, leads the examination of evidence. You have the right to respond to charges but you are not required to make statements.

Cases progress through preliminary proceedings, a main trial that is generally public, and subsequent verdict and sentencing stages, with opportunities for appeal.

Special procedures exist for minor offences, including summary and simplified single‑judge proceedings, some of which allow for decisions without a full trial if the facts are undisputed.

While minor cases may be resolved quickly, more serious cases can take longer to reach trial, with overall timelines varying depending on case complexity and court workload.

The British embassy in Prague cannot interfere with Czech judicial system. It cannot ask for your case to be judged more quickly just because you are British or ask the authorities to waive any penalties.

Choice of court

Cases are normally assigned based on the seriousness and nature of the offence, as in most civil-law countries.

Your lawyer or the court documents you receive will specify which court is handling the case.

Criminal cases start in:

• district courts for most crimes
• regional courts for crimes punishable by 5+ years of imprisonment

Completion of investigations

While you’re on remand before the trial, the public prosecutor investigates the charges against you.

This can include things like:

• questioning you and the witnesses
• getting expert opinions
• getting police investigative summaries
• examining laboratory reports

The investigation stage is finished when the public prosecutor believes they have enough evidence to take you to trial or they decide to end the case and release you.

Bill of indictment

If your case goes to trial, you will be given the ‘bill of indictment’ (obžaloba in Czech). It will say:

• what you’re accused of
• which laws may have been broken
• what the evidence is

Start of your trial

Your trial begins with the prosecutor reading the charges against you. After that, you will have the opportunity to respond to the allegations, give your own statement, and answer questions from the court or other parties. You also have the right to remain silent at any time.

The length of time between your arrest and the start of your trial can vary. The investigation phase has legal limits of 2, 3, or 6 months, depending on the seriousness of the alleged offence. Before this period ends, you must either be formally charged or released. The prosecutor may request an extension of the investigation, and such extensions are possible under Czech law.

Once the charge is filed, there is no fixed legal deadline for when the case must be brought to trial. As a result, delays are common in the Czech criminal justice system.

Taking evidence

The court examines:

• witness testimony
• expert reports
• documentary and physical evidence
• police and prosecution files

The judge determines which evidence is relevant and orders additional inquiries if needed.

Examination of evidence

Czech criminal proceedings follow the inquisitorial system. This means:

• judges examine witnesses and experts first

• lawyers may ask follow‑up questions but do not control the presentation of evidence

The court’s goal is to establish the objective truth, not to argue 2 opposing cases.

During the trial, the defendant, injured party, and all witnesses may be questioned directly in court. Trials are public, conducted orally, and held in Czech. If you do not speak Czech, you have the right to an interpreter.

Verdict

After all evidence has been reviewed, the judge or judicial panel retires to deliberate.
The verdict is then delivered either orally in court or in writing, depending on the court’s practice

Sentences

Possible penalties are defined in the Czech Criminal Code. Your lawyer can best explain what sentence may apply to your case. Common types of punishment include:

• fines and/or compensation to the victim
• imprisonment
• forfeiture of property
• disqualification (for example, from certain professions or activities).

Czechia does not impose corporal or capital punishment.

Foreign nationals who do not have residence in Czechia may receive an expulsion order either as the sole penalty or in addition to another punishment.

Making an appeal

You can appeal against

• the verdict and/or the sentence in your case
• paying the compensation to the victim, if ordered by court

The prosecution also has a right to appeal a judgment, and it is common practice.

When you can appeal

Your appeal must be within 30 days of the verdict. If you were not at court when the verdict was announced, then the 30 days start when the written judgement is served to you.

If you have not appealed within this time the verdict will be final and cannot be changed.

How to appeal

Your appeal must be lodged in writing, with the court that issued the verdict. You will be informed of the deadline for filing an appeal by the court. You can base your appeal on new facts and evidence not considered at your first trial.

What happens when you appeal

Once your written appeal is submitted:

• the court receives and registers the appeal

• the court checks whether it meets the formal requirements

The case is then forwarded to the appeal court, which reviews:

• the original decision
• the grounds for appeal
• any new facts or evidence you submit

At the end of the appeal

If your appeal succeeds:

The verdict or sentence can be overturned, changed, or sent back for a new hearing.

If your appeal fails:

The decision becomes final and enforceable.

You may request an extraordinary appeal (“dovolání”) to the Supreme Court — but only for specific legal reasons and not for general dissatisfaction with the verdict.

Prison conditions in Czechia

The conditions in Czech prisons are generally good. Shared cells are most common in Czech prisons, with usually 2-3 prisoners per one cell. In general, Czech prisons are filled up to their capacity; some prisons can be slightly overcrowded.

Every prisoner has his/her own bed and a locker for his/her personal belongings. There are tables and chairs based on the number of the prisoners. If the accommodation room is a cell, it must be equipped with its own toilet and a washbasin with running water. Power sockets are available in some prisons, but any electrical equipment brought to prison is subject to safety check before it can be used in the cell.

Prison cells usually have a small window with bars so there is natural light.

Letters and packages

Receiving packages

You can receive postal parcels containing non‑perishable food, books, or personal items up to 5 kg twice a year (usually birthday & Christmas). Visitors may also bring parcels if arranged in advance.

These limits do not apply to parcels with replacement clothes, books, newspapers, magazines, and (for remand prisoners only) personal hygiene items.

All parcels are checked by Prison Service staff, and forbidden items (including money) will not be delivered. The sender must include your full name and date of birth.

Letters

There is no limit to how many letters you can send or receive. Mail must be delivered with minimal delay and is subject to censorship. It may be forwarded to investigative authorities if necessary.

Mail to and from your lawyer is not censored and must be delivered without delay.

Stamps and stationery

You pay for your correspondence yourself. You can buy stamps in the prison shop as part of its standard assortment. You are also allowed to receive stamps by post, either in a letter or in a parcel.

Checks on your mail

You must request permission from the prison to receive a parcel. They will give you a special label, which you send to the person posting the parcel. The back of the label lists items that are not allowed.

All packages are inspected by the prison service. Items not permitted in a cell will not be handed over. If you are unsure whether something is allowed, check with the social worker first.

Before asking for a radio, TV, or other electronics, confirm that the prison allows them. If allowed, they must pass a technical inspection to ensure they contain no banned components.

Any refused items will be returned to the sender at your expense.

If you are sent a package from the UK, you are responsible for following Czech customs procedures. More details can be found on the Czech Customs Administration website.

Telephone calls

To call family or friends, you must request a BVfon phone card from the prison. You should receive it in about one week. The card includes an 8‑digit account number and a PIN (revealed by scratching), which you need to log in to the prison phone and to buy credit.

Your family or friends can top up your credit online at mojetelio.cz (English available). They will need your BVfon account number. Embassy staff can pass this number to them if needed. The maximum top‑up is CZK 2,000. If you have money on your prison account, you can also buy credit yourself inside the prison.

Calls to your lawyer or the Embassy are free but must be arranged with prison staff depending on your situation.

Telephone calls on remand

Phone calls to close family are usually allowed unless they could interfere with the investigation. With serious justification, calls to other people may be permitted, and all costs are paid by the accused. Calls must be requested through the senior officer and may be monitored or recorded by the Prison Service. If a call suggests criminal activity, involves an unapproved person, or threatens the purpose of custody, it may be stopped and reported to authorities.

Telephone calls when sentenced

Sentenced prisoners may make phone calls to close family, and with special approval to others, at their own expense. You must request a call in advance and it will be monitored by the Prison Service, except for protected calls with lawyers, state authorities, diplomatic offices, human rights organisations, or child‑protection officials. Calls may be recorded or listened to directly, but monitoring must stop immediately if a lawyer is involved. If a call suggests criminal activity, it may be interrupted and reported to law enforcement.

Mobile phones are not allowed in Czech prisons. Being caught with a mobile phone can lead to a punishment, such as withdrawing some privileges earned before, fine, restricting the limit on received parcels or losing your job or school place. It will also show in your prison records and may affect your chances for a conditional release.

Video calls

You can make video calls to close family using Webex. Your relatives must create a Webex account and then reapply to the prison for approval as video‑call contacts. The application must include your full name, the applicant’s relationship to you, and the email address used for the Webex registration. The Prison Service will start the video call only if it can match that email address to an existing Webex account.

Medical and dental treatment

Czechia provides for your basic medical needs, and healthcare is generally of high quality. Medical and dental care covered by public insurance is free, but you must pay for any treatment not covered.

To get care, you must book an appointment with the prison doctor or dentist; urgent cases should be reported to a guard or social worker. Complex issues may be referred to outside specialists, and there are 2 prison hospitals (Prague and Brno).

You cannot choose your healthcare provider or use private healthcare. Glasses can be provided if recommended by a doctor, but you must pay for them, though charities may help. With your consent, the Embassy can raise medical concerns with prison staff and help share medical records from your UK GP if needed.

Treatment for a new illness or condition

If you get ill, have an accident or are injured, you must report this immediately to a member of the Prison Service staff. If your condition requires medical care that cannot be provided within the prison and the sentence cannot be interrupted, healthcare will be provided at a medical facility outside the prison.

If you need urgent medical care that cannot be provided either in the prison or in a specialised medical facility of the Prison Service, the prison director may suspend the execution of the sentence for the strictly necessary period.

Drug and alcohol addiction

You may be ordered to participate in an addiction programme by the court (in a specialised unit). You can also apply for programmes based on your own need to treat your addiction.

Information regarding addiction treatment is provided by specialist prison staff. In addition to participation in specific programmes, you may attend consultations with a psychologist, psychiatrist or addiction specialist. Individual programmes vary depending on the type of addiction addressed (substance abuse, alcohol, pathological gambling).

Mental health care

Psychologists are available in all prisons to provide counselling and individual/group therapy sessions where needed. You will have an initial interview with the prison psychologist within the first 24 hours after your arrival to determine your needs. You can also request an interview with the prison psychologist any time later.

Emergency trips outside prison

If an urgent situation occurs, such as a funeral or a close relative’s critical illness, you may apply in writing to the prison director for temporary leave. The director can grant permission for up to 10 days per year, and each request is assessed individually with attention to safety and security risks. Applications should be submitted to a prison guard or social worker.

Food and diet

Regular meals (usually 3 meals a day, one of them being a hot meal) are provided considering the state of health, age and the requirements of cultural and religious traditions.

Depending on the seriousness of your crime, you might be serving your sentence in a prison in which prisoners are allowed to cook their own meals from the ingredients supplied by the prison. However, this possibility is available only in some prisons.

You can supplement your diet by buying food from the prison shop, or you can have some non-perishable food items sent in a parcel.

Special diets

If your cultural or religious beliefs do not allow you to eat standard meals, (or if you choose not to follow standard dietary arrangements) you may be given food that does not conflict with your beliefs. In this case you must submit a written request to the prison director. The prison can provide alternative food only if it is able to do so.

Therapeutic diets are sometimes also provided. The type of diet will be prescribed to by a doctor, based on an assessment of your current health condition.

Prison shop

Most prisons have their own shop. You can buy things there, like toiletries or extra fruit and vegetables, once or twice a month and with your own money.

You can also submit a written request to purchase goods outside the standard assortment. Imprisoned persons are usually allowed to make 2 purchases per week; the specific shopping times depend on the internal regulations of the prison.

Showers and hygiene

Inmates on remand are allowed to take a warm water shower twice a week. Each shower is limited to 5 minutes. Access to showers can be less restricted for sentenced prisoner, depending on the prison. Toiletries can be bought in the prison shop.

Work and study

Remand prisoners are not required to work but can request a job. Sentenced prisoners can apply for work, though positions are limited and usually support prison operations (for example, laundry, maintenance, printing, auto repair). Some jobs are located outside the prison.

Work allows prisoners to earn money and gain certain benefits. All prisoners may be required to clean communal areas without pay.

Books, languages, activities and study

Where possible, prisons try to place you with an English‑speaking cellmate, and some staff may speak English. Mobile phones and internet are not allowed. Only official prison phones can be used.

Writing materials can be bought in the prison shop or sent in a parcel.

Libraries exist but have very few English books, although your family can send books and the charity Prisoners Abroad can provide reading or language materials.

TVs are usually allowed, depending on prison rules.

You may order Czech‑published newspapers, magazines, and books at your own expense, but all items must follow prison guidelines. You should always check in advance before ordering.

Courses and study

Prisons offer education and training opportunities. These are usually conducted in Czech but Czech‑language courses for foreign inmates may be available. Study materials are provided where needed, and prisons may have libraries offering general and professional literature, depending on the capacity of the individual prison.

Prison staff may help arrange correspondence (distance or postal) course, including religious correspondence courses facilitated through prison chaplains. You have to pay for any correspondence course.

For prisoners who have been sentenced (not those on remand), prisons provide structured educational and developmental activities. Following an initial assessment, each prisoner is assigned an individual treatment programme aimed at personal development, meaningful use of free time, and preparation for reintegration into civilian life.

You can obtain vocational qualifications during your sentence, either through the Secondary Vocational School of the Prison Service of the Czech Republic or through retraining courses provided by civilian organisations. Upon completion, you will receive a valid certificate that does not showthe qualification was obtained during imprisonment.

Knowledge of Czech is not formally required. Where necessary, the prison can arrange an interpreter to enable you to communicate your needs. However, sufficient understanding of the language used by the lecturer or teacher is required for participation in an educational programme. A state examination in the Czech language is not required.

Exercise

You will spend a minimum of 1 hour each day outside. This will usually be in a restricted area in the prison courtyard. You can sometimes use this time for exercising or playing sports, depending on the prison.

Sporting activities are also available during outings or in the form of exercises and games in the prison’s gym.

Clothing

You will be given bedding (blanket, sheet, bed clothes, and towel), basic hygienic items (soap, toilet paper, toothpaste and toothbrush, disposable razor), and prison clothes (sweatshirt, T-Shirt, trousers and underwear)

You can wear your own clothes, if your family or friends can provide clean clothes on a regular basis.

Religion

You can receive religious support while you are in prison, from prison chaplains or volunteer chaplains.

Religious services in Czech prisons are provided by 14 different religious organisations. Voluntary chaplains provide spiritual support regardless of your religious beliefs. Upon request, prison authorities can appoint a minister of a specific faith, if technically possible.

Mobile phones

Mobile phones are not allowed in Czech prisons. Being caught with a mobile phone can lead to punishment. This may include withdrawing some earned privileges earned , a fine, limiting the parcels you can receive or losing your job or study place. It will also show in your prison records and may affect your chances for a conditional release.

Transferring to another prison

Transferring to a prison in the UK

Transfers are only permitted when there are exceptional and compassionate reasons for doing so.

Prisoner Transfer Agreements (PTAs) allow prisoners to transfer to serve the remainder of their sentence in their own country. This enables them to be closer to family and friends in an English-speaking environment and permits them to benefit from pre-release courses available in British prisons.

You can make your application to the Court that committed you to prison but, if you prefer, you can write to the Embassy, and we will pass on your letter to the relevant UK authorities (HM Prison and Probation Service /National Offender Management System). The UK authorities will then make an application to the foreign authorities on your behalf. Please note that the transfer process can be very slow and bureaucratic.

You do not have an automatic right to transfer. Each request is considered on its individual merits. The UK and the country in which the British prisoner is held have the right to refuse a request.

To transfer to the UK, you must:

• be a British citizen or have close family ties with the UK (normally through permanent residence in the UK)

• not be awaiting trial

• have exhausted all appeals against your conviction and/or the length of your sentence; or have waived your right to an appeal

• have at least 6 months of your sentence left to serve when you apply for transfer

• have no outstanding fines or other non-custodial penalties

The offence you were convicted for must also be a criminal offence in the part of the UK you wish to be transferred to: England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

The authorities in the sentencing country may refuse your request. Even if the sentencing country agrees to your transfer, the UK authorities may also refuse your request. Reasons for this might include if you have not lived in the UK for several years and you have no close family living there.

Transferring to a prison in Czechia

In some cases, a transfer to another prison in Czechia may be possible. Your lawyer will be best placed to advise you in this matter.

Early release

The court may release you on parole after you have served one-half of your sentence, or after you have been pardoned by President of Czechia. For this to happen you will have to have shown good behaviour and carried out all your duties, while in prison.

The court will need to be satisfied that you will lead an orderly life in future and that you have been rehabilitated.

If you were convicted of specific crimes stipulated in the Czech Criminal Code, you can only be conditionally released after having served 2-thirds of their term of imprisonment.

If you were sentenced to life imprisonment, you can be conditionally released on parole after having served at least 20 years..

A sentenced person has no automatic right to be released early. In Czechia, it is the court that decides on possible release of a sentenced person, considering all the relevant circumstances.

Reduction of sentence (remission)

Your lawyer will be best placed to discuss the possibility of sentence reduction in your case.

Clemency or pardon

In Czechia, pardon or clemency can only be given by the President. The President determines in which cases the Minister of Justice can grant clemency or deny an unfounded request. A lawyer is best placed to help with this process.

Release and deportation

You can contact the British embassy or consulate if you need help when you’re released.

Deportation

A court in Czechia may impose a sentence of expulsion either as the only punishment or alongside another punishment. This happens when it is considered necessary for public safety, the protection of property, or other public interests.

When deciding on whether to deport you, the court assesses how dangerous you and your crime are to society, the chances of your rehabilitation, your personal situation and any risks to people, property, or other public interests.

The deportation period may range from one to 10 years or may be imposed for an indefinite duration. A lawyer can advise the offender on whether and how the expulsion decision can be appealed.

If deportation is the sole punishment, the court may set a deadline for leaving Czechia or order immediate removal with a police escort, with the exact procedure depending on the judge’s decision.

If expulsion is imposed in addition to imprisonment, the prison administration carries out the deportation once you have completed the your sentence.

Flights to the UK

If a return to the UK takes place under escort while the individual is still imprisoned, the flight is arranged and paid for by the Czech Prison Service.

If the return takes place after release from prison, you are responsible for arranging and paying your own travel.

Upon release, you are issued with any available money, accumulated from money sent to you from pay for prison work.

If you don’t have any available money such funds are available, you will be given a small amount sufficient to cover travel to the nearest town where the relevant authority or required organisation is located.

Getting a passport

Make sure your British passport is still in date. Contact the British embassy or consulate before you’re released if you need an emergency passport for your journey home.

Useful Czech words and phrases

Important phrases

• I would like to see a doctor / Chtěl(a) bych jít k lékaři. / Rád bych šel k lékaři
• I would like to visit a social worker / Chtěl(a) bych navštívit sociálního pracovníka.
• I would like to contact the consulate / Chtěl(a) bych kontaktovat konzulát.
• I would like to contact my lawyer / Chtěl(a) bych kontaktovat svého právníka.

Useful legal terms

A
Access to file (by Lawyer)	Přístup ke spisu - právníkem
Administration of Justice	Výkon spravedlnosti
Appeal	Odvolání
Application	Žádost

B
Bar Association	Advokátní komora

C
Charge	Obžaloba
Chief Prosecutor	Vrchní státní zástupce
Complaints system	Systém stížností
Completed file	Uzavřená složka
Compulsory prosecution	Povinné trestní stíhání
Conjugal Visit	Návštěva manžela/manželky
Court file reference	Soudní spisová značka
Criminal code	Trestní zákoník
Custody	Vyšetřovací vazba

D
Danger of repeated offences	Nebezpečí opakování přestupku
Deportation order	Vyhoštění
District Court	Okresní soud

E
Evaluation of evidence	Vyhodnocování důkazů
Extradition	Extradice-vydání osoby druhému státu

F
Final public trial	Veřejné líčení

G
Guilty	Vinný

I
Interpreter	Tlumočník
Investigating Judge	Vyšetřující soudce

J
Judge	Soudce
Judgement	Rozsudek
Jurisdiction	Soudní pravomoc

L
Lawyer	Právní zástupce
Legal Remedy	Opravný prostředek
Local prison rules	Vězeňský řád

M
Major offence	Závažný přestupek
Minister of Justice	Ministr spravedlnosti
Minor offence	Zanedbatelný přestupek
Money earned in prison	Peníze vydělané ve věznici

N
Notary	Notář

O
Officer of the Court	Úředník soudu

P
Penal order	Trestní příkaz
Penal proceeding	Trestní řízení
Permit	Povolení
Personal money in prison	Osobní peníze ve věznici
Physical examination	Osobní prohlídka
Plaintiff	Žalobce
Power of Attorney	Plná moc
Police Officer	Policejní úředník
Preliminary detention	Předběžné zadržení
Presumption of innocence	Presumpce neviny
Preventive detention	Předběžné zadržení
Prison	Vězení
Prison administration	Vězeňská správa
Prison Warder	Vězeňský dozorce
Proof of evidence	Důkaz
Proportionality	Přiměřenost
Prosecutor	Žalobce
Punishment cell	Vězeňská cela

R
Regional State Court	Krajský soud
Rehabilitation	Rehabilitace - navrácení práv
Release	Propustit
Release order	Propouštěcí příkaz

S
Security	Bezpečnost
Single Judge	Samosoudce
Social Worker	Sociální pracovník
Supreme Court	Vrchní soud

T
Temporary detention	Předběžné zadržení
The accused	Obviněný
To buy	Koupit
To change money	Rozměnit peníze
To deport	Deportovat
Transfer to another prison	Převoz do jiné věznice
Treason	Velezrada

V
Valid or legal	Platný/legální
Visit	Návštěva
Visiting permit	Povolení k návštěvě

Numbers

1	Jedna [yedna]
2	Dvě [dvye]
3	Tři [trshi]
4	Čtyři [chtyrshi]
5	Pět [pyet]
6	Šest [shest]
7	Sedm [sedm]
8	Osm [osem]
9	Devět [devyet]
10	Deset [deset]
11	Jedenáct [yedenast]
12	Dvanáct [dvanast]
13	Třináct [trshynast]
14	Čtrnáct [chternast]
15	Patnáct [patnast]
16	Šestnáct [shesnast]
17	Sedmnáct [sedmnast]
18	Osmnáct [osemnast]
19	Devatenáct [devetenast]
20	Dvacet [dvaset]
30	Třicet [trshyset]
40	Čtyřicet [chtyrshiset]
50	Padesát [padesat]
60	Šedesát [shedesat]
70	Sedmdesát [sedemdesat]
80	Osmdesát [osemdesat]
90	Devadesát [devadesat]
100	Sto [stoh]
1000	Tisíc [tysyts]

Food

Food	Jídlo
Apple	Jablko
Banana	Banán
Beans	Fazole
Biscuits	Sušenky
Bread	Chléb
Cake	Koláč
Chicken	Kuře
Coffee	Káva
Drink	Pití, Nápoj
Eat	Jídlo
Egg	Vejce
Fruit	Ovoce
I’m hungry.	Mám hlad.
Juice	Džus
Meat	Maso
Milk	Mléko
Rice	Rýže
Sausage	Klobása
Sugar	Cukr
Sweet	Sladké
Vegetables	Zelenina
Water	Voda

Published 5 August 2026