How to Use Czech Post Office Services: A Guide for Foreigners

Essential Czech Post Office Services for Foreigners

If you’re new to the Czech Republic and don’t speak Czech, dealing with the post office can feel intimidating. The good news is that most common tasks are manageable once you know what to expect and which services you need.

Below is a simple overview of the most common Czech post office services foreigners use, along with helpful Czech phrases you can rely on.

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1. Opening a Czech Data Box (Datová schránka)

If you have a Czech trade license (živnostenský list), having a Czech data box is mandatory. This is the official digital mailbox used for communication with Czech authorities.

If you did not receive your login details by post, you can arrange everything directly at the post office. They will either:

• give you the login credentials on the spot, or
• resend them to your registered address.

Important tips:

• Make sure the address in the system is correct
• Ensure your name is clearly displayed on the mailbox
• Bring your passport or Czech ID

If you don’t speak Czech, be aware that many post office employees do not speak English. For foreigners, the main post office in Prague is usually the easiest option:

 Jindřišská 909/14, 110 00 Nové Město – Prague 1

Business Data Box (mandatory)

At the counter, you can say:
„Potřebuji si zřídit datovou schránku pro podnikání.“
(I need to open a data box for business.)

Personal Data Box (optional)

You can also open a personal data box for communication with offices such as the Immigration Office.

At the counter, say:
„Potřebuji si zřídit datovou schránku pro fyzickou osobu.“
(I need to open a data box for a private person.)

• Login details are usually provided the same day (by email or registered mail).
• Both business and personal data boxes are free of charge.
• When taking a ticket at the post office, always choose Czech POINT.

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2. Sending Post in the Czech Republic

There are two main types of mail you’ll use most often:

• Obyčejně (ordinary mail) – cheaper, no tracking
• Doporučeně (registered mail) – slightly more expensive, includes tracking and delivery confirmation

Parcels can also be sent as ordinary, priority, or registered.

Useful Czech vocabulary:

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3. Legalizing (Verifying) Your Signature

Sometimes Czech authorities require your signature to be officially verified. This service is available at Czech POINTat the post office.

When taking a ticket, choose Czech POINT.

At the counter:

Step 1 – Request the service:
„Dobrý den, potřebuji ověřit podpis.“
(Hello, I need to verify a signature.)

Step 2 – Hand over documents:
„Tady je dokument a občanský průkaz/pas.“
(Here is the document and my ID/passport.)

Step 3 – Sign at the counter:
The clerk will say:
„Podepište se, prosím, tady.“
(Please sign here.)

Important notes:

• You must sign in person at the counter
• Do not bring the document already signed
• Bring a valid passport or Czech ID
• The service is called ověření podpisu or legalizace
• The fee is usually 30 CZK per signature

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4. Making a Certified Copy of a Document (Vidimace)

If you need an officially certified copy of a document, this is also done at Czech POINT.

At the counter:

Step 1:
„Dobrý den, potřebuji ověřenou kopii tohoto dokumentu.“
(Hello, I need a certified copy of this document.)

Step 2:
„Tady je originál.“
(Here is the original.)

Important notes:

• The service is called vidimace
• You receive a copy with an official stamp and strip
• You can request multiple copies:
  „Potřebuji tři ověřené kopie, prosím.“
• Cost: 30 CZK per page
• Payment: cash or card

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Super Tip

If you want to avoid long queues (and Czech post offices can get very busy), book an appointment in advance at your nearest branch:
postaonline.cz → Reservation system

And if you’d feel more comfortable having someone accompany you to the post office, no problem—we’re happy to help. Just get in touch!

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