Czechia
The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
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The sale, possession, or use of illicit drugs is against the law in Czechia, with severe penalties that may include long jail terms.
Severe penalties including long jail terms.
§ US State Dept — CzechiaMedications
Carry prescription medication in original packaging with a prescription and verify legality with the Czech Ministry of Health; customs enforces strict rules on temporary import of medications.
§ US State Dept — CzechiaCustoms & Cash
You must declare EUR 10,000 or more in cash or equivalent when entering or leaving Czechia across an EU external border; no declaration is needed when traveling between EU countries.
Fine if not declared or if wrong information provided.
§ US State Dept — CzechiaAlcohol
You may be arrested or fined for drunken or offensive behavior in Czechia and taken to a sober-up facility at your own cost.
Arrest, fine, or detention in a sober-up facility at your own cost.
§ Australian DFAT Smartraveller — CzechiaDriving
Winter tires are obligatory in Czechia from November 1 to March 31 in wintery conditions or if such conditions are expected during your drive.
§ US State Dept — CzechiaCzechia strictly enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving — any detected alcohol is illegal — and police can breathalyze drivers stopped for any reason.
Immediate fines and possible criminal proceedings.
§ US State Dept — CzechiaYou need an International Driving Permit plus your home license to drive in Czechia; cars must carry a reflective jacket, warning triangle, and first-aid kit, and a motorway vignette is required.
No IDP may bring a fine or denied insurance claim; vignette violations carry fines.
§ US State Dept — CzechiaPhotography & Drones
Photography is illegal in some Czech buildings including indoor shopping centers; look for posted signs and ask if unsure.
§ Australian DFAT Smartraveller — CzechiaLGBTQ+ Safety
There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Czechia, though outside Prague such relations or events are less socially accepted.
§ US State Dept — Czech RepublicPublic Conduct
Jaywalking may be enforced in Prague's city center, and streetcars have right of way over pedestrians at crosswalks.
Discretionary fines up to ~2,000 CZK (~$100); refusing to pay may lead to court and a higher fine.
§ US State Dept — Czechia