Guide to Residency in Croatia

Obtaining a residency visa in Croatia is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Croatia gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Check Eligibility for Residency
  • Review the different types of residency permits available on the official website of the Ministry of Interior of Croatia: Temporary and Permanent Stay.
  • Determine which category you fall under (e.g., work, study, family reunification, etc.).
• Gather Required Documentation
  • Prepare a valid passport or another form of identification.
  • Obtain proof of health insurance that is valid in Croatia.
  • Secure proof of sufficient funds to support your stay.
  • Get a Croatian address, which will be needed for the application.
  • If applicable, prepare additional documents such as employment contract, proof of enrollment in an educational institution, or marriage certificate.
• Apply for a Tax Number (OIB)
  • Visit the Tax Administration website for information: Croatian Tax Administration.
  • Fill out the application form for obtaining an OIB, which can be found at local tax offices or online.
  • Submit the application form along with a copy of your identification document at the nearest tax office or via email.
• Open a Croatian Bank Account
  • Choose a bank in Croatia and gather the required documents, typically your passport and OIB.
  • Visit the chosen bank in person to open an account.
  • Deposit the necessary initial funds if required by the bank.
• Apply for Residency
  • Complete the application form for temporary residence, which can be obtained from the local police station or the Ministry of Interior website.
  • Submit the application form along with all the required documents at the administrative police station closest to your Croatian address.
  • Pay the administrative fee for the residency application, which can vary depending on the type of permit.
• Attend the Biometric Data Appointment
  • After submitting your application, you will be scheduled for an appointment to provide biometric data (photograph and fingerprints).
  • Attend the appointment at the designated police station.
• Wait for Residency Approval
  • Residency applications can take several weeks to several months to process.
  • During this time, stay in contact with the police station where you applied to check on the status of your application.
• Register Your Address
  • Once your residency is approved, you must register your living address with the local police station within 15 days of obtaining your residence permit or changing your address.
• Renew Your Residency Permit
  • Temporary residence permits are typically valid for one year. Start the renewal process at least 60 days before your current permit expires.
  • Follow the same process as the initial application, updating any documents as necessary.
• Apply for Permanent Residency (if applicable)
  • After legally residing in Croatia for an uninterrupted period of five years, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
  • Check the requirements and process on the Ministry of Interior website.

Please note that the above steps are a general guide and the specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on your individual circumstances and any changes in Croatian law. Always refer to the official Croatian government websites for the most current information and consult with legal professionals if necessary.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Croatia?

"In order to visit Croatia, foreign nationals must obtain a visa from a Croatian embassy or consulate prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting a valid passport, a completed visa application form, a passport-sized photograph, and any other documents required by the embassy or consulate. In order to obtain residency in Croatia, foreign nationals must submit an application to the Ministry of Interior. The application must include a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, proof of health insurance, proof of sufficient financial means, and any other documents required by the Ministry of Interior. Once the application is approved, the foreign national will be issued a residence permit," commented one member living in Croatia.