Croatia Work Visa Process 2024 and Types of Work Permits

Croatia is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. In January 2023, Croatia adopted the euro as its currency. The population of Croatia is Just 3.9 million as of March 20, 2024. Croatia is a great place for both companies and employees. It has a list of professions with high demand, which can make obtaining a work permit easier. In this article, we will tell you about the Croatia Work Visa Process, the types of Work Permits, and the requirements to apply for the Croatia work visa.

Croatia offers work visas for foreigners who want to live and work in the country. If you’re a citizen of the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), you don’t need a work visa to work in Croatia. However, if you’re from outside the EU/EEA, you’ll typically need both a work permit and a residence permit. Foreign workers will also apply for the Croatia long-stay (type D) visa if they are coming to Croatia for more than 90 days. More details are given below.

Statistics of Croatia Work Permits

160,000 work permits were issued for non-EEA foreign workers according to the latest figures from the Ministry of the Interior (MUP). (Source: https://total-croatia-news.com/news/croatian-workforce/)

As of March 20, 2024: More than 43,000 Croatian work permits for foreigners were issued in just two months. (Source: https://total-croatia-news.com/news/croatian-work-permits-foreigners/)

Also Check: Ireland Work Visa Process (Types of Employment Permits)

Types of Croatia Work Permits for Foreign Workers

• Regular Work Permit & Residence Permit: This is the most common type of work permit, valid for one year with the possibility of an extension.
• EU Blue Card: This residence permit is for highly qualified workers and is valid for two years with the possibility of permanent residency after fulfilling certain criteria.

Requirements to get a Work Permit

• To get a Work permit you must first find a Job in Croatia. It means you must have a Valid Job offer.
• Your employer who offered you a Job will apply for a work permit on your behalf to the Croatian Ministry of Labour.
• Once you have the work permit, you can apply for a visa at the Croatian embassy or consulate in your home country. From here you can check the list of Croatian embassies and consulates.
• Each country there is a different process. So it is always best to call the embassy and ask them about the Visa application process.
• After entering Croatia, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit from the local police station. This will be your temporary Residence Card.

Also Check: Ireland Seasonal Employment Permit (Application Process)

Fields that are In-Demand

Croatia has a list of professions with high demand, which can make obtaining a work permit easier.

These professions are subject to change, so it’s best to check with the Croatian Employment Service (https://www.hzz.hr/en/) for the latest updates.

Some fields that are often in demand include:

• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Engineering
• Tourism & Hospitality
• Healthcare

If you do not have a Job offer from Croatia you can also apply for the Croatia Digital Nomad Visa.

Also Check: Romania Digital Nomad Visa (Process, Requirements)

Why You Should Work in Croatia?

Croatia faces a labor shortage, which is why they’re looking to foreign workers to fill some gaps in their workforce. The tourism and Construction sectors are high in demand.

Croatia used to limit foreign workers with a quota system. Now (since 2021), it’s easier for foreigners to get work permits, but companies still try to hire locals first.

How to Apply for the Croatia Work Visa?

Once you have a Job and the work permit is approved. The final step is to apply for the Croatia Long Stay Visa. This Visa is valid for one year.

You will need to submit the Visa application form along with the work permit and all other documents at the Croatian Embassy in your country. From here you can check the list of Croatian embassies and consulates.

Once your Visa is issued you can now travel to Croatia, collect your Residence permit, and start work.

Helpful Resources

Here are some helpful resources:

Websites to Find Jobs in Croatia

Scholarship Websites

Study in Croatia