2021 census starting soon

After ten years, a mandatory census will take place in the Czech Republic - and even some foreigners need to complete it!

In the first two weeks, from March 27 until April 9, people will only be able to fill in the data electronically. The form will be available on the www.scitani.cz website or in the mobile app Sčítání21 downloadable from Google Play and Apple Store. Those who will not complete the census online will have to submit a paper form from April 17 until May 11.

Failure to complete the census can result in a fine of up to 10,000 crowns. In addition to Czech citizens, the census is mandatory for foreign nationals living in the country for longer than 90 days. Foreigners who have a long-term visa or residence card but are currently not in Czechia also have to complete the census. According to a survey, 70% of Czech nationals plan to send their data electronically.

In addition to Czech, the online questionnaire will also be available in English, German, Polish, Vietnamese, Ukrainian, Romani and Russian. People can also call the lines 840 30 40 50 and 253 253 683 - the operators will be able to answer in Czech, English and Russian. There is also a chatbot or live chat option.

Filling in the form should take around 15 minutes. There are fewer questions than in the last census in 2011. The statisticians are aware that life of many people has changed during the pandemic, however, people should answer according to how they usually live and disregard temporary changes due to the lockdown.