Croatia

Moving to Croatia

Hugging the Adriatic coastline for over 5,800 km, Croatia is the crossroads of Central and Southeastern Europe. Boasting all the amenities of a Mediterranean culture without the glamour, this is a destination for those who crave authenticity.

A hearty mainland culture makes this nation of 1,000+ islands a transformative destination and place to call home. It’s easy to get allured by the majestic coastline – stretching from the northern-border of Italy and south into Montenegro. And it’s easy to get lost in the density of this varied Adriatic culture. Inundated with distinct European history, Croatia borders six extremely diverse nations: Italy, Hungary, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Montenegro. And with its desirable location gazing east over the Adriatic sea, Croatia has always been a first-cousin with its counterpart across the sea, Italy. With no shortages of fresh seafood, rolling vineyards and historic cobblestoned streets, this nation has its own identity that is worth getting to know.

Croatia offers one of the most attractive cost-of-living proposals throughout Europe. Affordable housing, access to world-class healthcare, progressive tax-incentives and some of the freshest seafood you will ever taste for less than $10 sums it up. Croatia knows that she has something to offer, and recent grassroots efforts are transforming vibrant “urban” hubs such as Zagreb, Split and Rijeka as a Digital Nomad destination. With remote working facilities emerging on a daily basis, digital nomads and remote workers are starting to smell the Adriatic sea-salt.

As a stellar launching-pad into the rest of Europe – Croatia is well-positioned to be more than just a crossroad.

In January 2023 Croatia officially became part of the Schengen agreement. This means that Croatian nationals and residents have freedom of movement throughout the Schengen-region.

Immigration Options for Croatia

Croatia is a member of the European Union, so if you are a citizen of an EU country, you have the right to live and work in Croatia without any additional immigration procedures. If you are a citizen of a non-EU country, you will need to obtain a visa or residence permit in order to live and work in Croatia.

There are several types of visas and residence permits that you may be eligible for, depending on your situation. For example, you may be able to apply for a short-term visa for business, tourism, or study purposes, or a long-term visa for work, family reunification, or permanent residence.

To apply for a visa or residence permit, you will need to submit a number of documents, including a valid passport, proof of financial means, and evidence of the purpose of your stay. You may also need to undergo a medical examination and provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph.

What's it like to live in Croatia?

Croatia is a diverse and beautiful country with a rich culture and history, located on the Adriatic Sea in southeastern Europe. It has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Living in Croatia can be very enjoyable, with a high quality of life and a relatively low cost of living compared to some other European countries. The country has a strong economy and a well-developed healthcare and education system.

Croatia is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with a long coastline on the Adriatic Sea, national parks, and picturesque islands. The country has a vibrant culture and a rich history, with a mix of influences from its Austro-Hungarian and Mediterranean past.

The official language is Croatian, but many people also speak English, especially in urban areas. The capital city, Zagreb, is home to a number of museums, galleries, and cultural events, as well as a lively nightlife scene.

Overall, living in Croatia can be a rewarding experience, offering a high standard of living, a rich culture, and beautiful natural surroundings.

Top Places to live in Croatia

Croatia is a diverse country with a variety of cities, towns, and rural areas to choose from. Some of the best places to live in Croatia include:

Zagreb: The capital and largest city of Croatia, Zagreb is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich history and culture. It has a lively arts and entertainment scene, as well as a number of museums, galleries, and parks.

Dubrovnik: Located on the southern coast of Croatia, Dubrovnik is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning old town, picturesque beaches, and crystal clear waters. It has a Mediterranean climate and a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere.

Split: Located on the central coast of Croatia, Split is the second-largest city in the country and a popular tourist destination. It is known for its beautiful old town, Roman ruins, and sandy beaches.

Rijeka: Located on the northern coast of Croatia, Rijeka is the third-largest city in the country and a major port. It has a mix of old and modern architecture, as well as a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Pula: Located on the southern coast of Croatia, Pula is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and ancient Roman ruins. It has a Mediterranean climate and a laid-back atmosphere.

These are just a few examples, and the best place to live in Croatia will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Other cities and towns that may be worth considering include Osijek, Zadar, and Šibenik.