Background checks in Czechia: what they are, what is allowed and what they cost.
A background check verifies a candidate before they start: whether their work history, education and documents are what they said. In Czech it is called a prověrka, screening or candidate verification.
What it usually includes
Checks of employment and education, document checks and, depending on the role, a criminal record extract. Classic screening often relies on asking former employers or schools, so it waits for people to reply and takes days to weeks.
What the law allows
An employer may ask for information about a clean criminal record only where the nature of the work gives a factual reason and the request is proportionate, or where the law requires it. It may not obtain this information through third parties either (Section 316(4) of the Labour Code).
You may never ask about sexual orientation, origin, union or political party membership or religion (same provision).
The law requires critical infrastructure entities to check the reliability of candidates (Section 17(1) of Act No. 266/2025 Coll.). For other companies, screening is a choice, not an obligation.
What it costs
According to public price lists as of September 2026, classic screening costs EUR 90 to 160 per candidate. That is why it is done on the finalist, often after the offer.
Where Candora fits
Candora does not replace a background check, it runs before it. For every application it checks the companies and universities on the CV against public registers, plus the documents the candidate uploads by phone. You see the source of every item.
Pro costs CZK 3,900 per month per account, not per candidate. The first 30 days are free, with no card.
Common questions
Are background checks legal in Czechia?
Yes, if you stay within the limits above and inform candidates about the processing of their data under the GDPR.
May I ask for a criminal record extract?
Only where the nature of the work justifies it and the request is proportionate, or where the law requires it. The What you may ask for library shows which positions this applies to.
Does Candora call former employers or referees?
No. Candora does not contact anyone on its own. The exception is a referee the candidate named and approved contacting: the recruiter sends them an email through Candora with their own click.