Prague has seen a significant increase in its foreign population, particularly from non-EU countries. According to the Institute of Planning and Development (IPR), the number of foreigners in Prague surged from 61,000 in 2001 to 345,000 in 2022. This surge is largely driven by the influx of Ukrainians, who numbered 170,000 by the end of 2022, partly due to refugees fleeing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Other notable groups include Slovaks, Russians, and Vietnamese.

Foreigners have been crucial in maintaining Prague’s population, which would have otherwise decreased by 5,000 between 2016 and 2021. By 2022, Prague’s population reached 1.38 million residents. The foreign demographic is generally younger, with an average age of 35.5 years compared to the Czech average of 43 years. This younger population also contributes significantly to the education sector, with one in five university students in Prague coming from abroad. Additionally, 45% of foreign graduates choose to stay and work in Czechia after completing their studies.

On a national level, the number of legally residing foreigners in Czechia reached 1.12 million in 2022, with nearly one million employed. To attract more skilled labor, the Czech government introduced a new rule from July that allows workers from nine non-EU countries, including the US, UK, and Japan, to work in Czechia without needing work permits. This change is aimed at attracting highly qualified professionals to the country.

The majority of these workers hold highly skilled positions, reflecting the government’s intent to draw highly qualified professionals. This policy change is expected to benefit both employers and the broader economy by simplifying the process for well-paid foreign workers to enter the Czech labor market. As Czechia adapts its immigration policies to attract more non-EU workers, it aims to address demographic challenges and bolster its workforce with skilled professionals.