The year 2026 opens with very positive news for jobseekers in Czechia. According to Manpower’s 2026 Employment Outlook Survey, Czech companies show strong optimism when it comes to hiring. Many employers plan to expand their workforce, while only a small share expect job cuts. This outlook is especially encouraging for foreign workers. Expats make up about one fifth of the country’s total workforce. For them, rising employment means more opportunities and better career stability in the Czech labor market.
The key figures behind employer optimism
Survey data clearly explains the positive mood. A total of 38 percent of companies plan to increase staff levels in 2026. Another 41 percent expect no change in their workforce. Only 18 percent foresee reductions. As a result, the Net Employment Outlook reaches 20 percentage points. This is the strongest first-quarter result ever recorded by Manpower. The figures reflect steady economic growth combined with ongoing labor shortages. Many employers struggle to find qualified candidates and are therefore more willing to hire and invest in talent.
Sectors offering the best opportunities for expats
Some industries stand out for their strong hiring outlook. Technology and IT services lead the rankings. In the digital sector, more than four out of ten workers are foreign nationals. This makes tech one of the most attractive fields for expats in Czechia. Finance, insurance, automotive, and professional services also report high levels of optimism. These industries are closely linked to administrative and business services. This is the second most common employment sector for foreign workers in the country. In 2026, expats in these fields may benefit from more job openings and improved negotiating power.
Why companies are continuing to hire
There are several reasons behind the rise in hiring. Company growth and the creation of new roles are the most common drivers. Many businesses are expanding into new areas or launching new projects. Others are searching for critical skills that are hard to find locally. The need for specialized employees and adaptation to technological change also play a role. Some sectors, such as manufacturing, have seen job losses over the past year. However, many workers are moving into faster-growing industries. Companies are focusing more on reallocating capacity than on cutting staff.
Emerging regions and final outlook
Prague remains the main employment hub for foreign workers. Around one third of all expats in Czechia are based in the capital. At the same time, other regions are becoming more attractive. Brno and the South Moravian Region show particularly strong momentum. The number of foreign workers there has grown significantly, and the region now leads the country in planned workforce expansion. In conclusion, 2026 looks like a favorable year for jobseekers in Czechia. Strong hiring plans, growing sectors, and emerging regions make the country an appealing destination for expats looking for new career opportunities.
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