Consider...
Croatia
“Croatia is a stunning tapestry of natural beauty, with its crystalline waters, breathtaking landscapes and enchanting architecture. It’s a place where one can truly feel the harmony between the land and its people.”
Ashley Judd
Croatia
Visiting Croatia, even for a short period can provide a comprehensive glimpse into the country’s highlights. A typical itinerary might include stops in Zagreb, followed by a visit to the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park before exploring the coastal cities of Split and Dubrovnik. These destinations offer a mix of cultural landmarks, natural wonders and opportunities for relaxation along the picturesque beaches.
For longer stays, travelers have the chance to delve deeper into Croatia’s diverse regions. The Dalmatian coast, island hopping in the Adriatic Sea and discovering lesser known gems such as the Istrian Peninsula and the historic town of Zadar.
For those captivated by Croatia’s charm and considering sticking around, the country offers a range of options for long term stays. Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a temporary residence permit or a digital nomad visa, allowing you to live and work in Croatia for an extended period.
As part of the European Union, it’s important to be aware of upcoming changes, such as the ETIAS travel authorisation entry requirement for visa exempt nationals and the EES biometric data collection measures expected in late 2024.
| 🌎 CONTINENT | EUROPE |
|---|---|
| 📌COUNTRY | CROATIA |
| 👫🏻POPULATION | 3,854,000 |
| 🙏RELIGION | CHRISTIANITY |
| 💵CURRENCY | EURO (EUR) |
| 💉C19 VAX REQUIRED | NO |
| 🔌POWER | 230V - 50Hz |
| 💰GDP PER CAPITA | $18,570 PER YEAR |
| ✈️AIRPORT | ZAGREB - ZAG |
|---|---|
| 🪪SCHENGEN VISA FREE | N/A (SCHENGEN MEMBER) |
| 🏝️LAND OWNERSHIP | ALLOWED |
| 🛜AVG INTERNET SPEED | 104 MBPS |
| 💧TAP WATER | SAFE TO DRINK |
| 🏧ATM LIMIT | VARIES BY BANK |
| 💳CASHLESS | WIDELY ACCEPTED |
| 💸TIPPING | 5 - 10 PERCENT |
TAX FRIENDLINESS
Digital Nomad Tax Friendliness: 90/100
-
- Croatia offers a Digital Nomad Visa that exempts holders from paying local taxes on foreign sourced income.
- Digital nomads can stay tax free for up to one year, with the visa initially valid for 180 days and renewable for another 180 days.
- Even if digital nomads stay in Croatia for 183 days or more during the year with the visa, they will not become tax residents.
Expat Tax Friendliness: 75/100
-
- Croatia follows a worldwide taxation system for residents.
- Tax rates are progressive, ranging from 15% to 35.40% on income exceeding EUR 50,400.
- Non residents are taxed only on Croatian sourced income.
- Croatia has double taxation agreements with numerous countries.
Investor Tax Friendliness: 70/100
-
- Corporate tax rate is 18% for companies with revenue over EUR 1,000,000.
- A reduced rate of 10% applies for companies with revenue below EUR 1,000,000.
- Capital gains are generally taxed as regular income.
- There are some tax incentives for certain types of investments.
Crypto Tax Friendliness: 80/100
-
- Crypto assets are treated as financial assets for tax purposes.
- Capital gains from crypto transactions are taxed at 12% if disposed within two years of acquisition.
- Gains on crypto assets held for more than two years are tax free.
- Crypto to crypto transactions may be tax free if not converted to fiat within two years.
CROATIA PRICE REFERENCE
CROATIA HOLIDAY LETS
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Croatia Tourist Visa Requirements
Note: Croatia is part of the European Union and the Schengen Area as of January 1, 2023. This allows visa free travel for up to 90 days within a 180 day period for citizens of many countries. If you require a visa to visit Croatia, here are the general requirements:
Essential Documents:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be issued within the last 10 years, have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area.
- Completed Visa Application Form: Must be accurately filled out and signed.
- Two Recent Passport-Sized Photos: Photos should meet specific biometric standards, such as a neutral expression and a plain background.
- Proof of Accommodation: This can be a hotel reservation, rental agreement or an invitation letter from a host if staying with someone in Croatia.
- Travel Itinerary: Including flight reservations and detailed plans of your stay in Croatia.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds: Bank statements or proof of financial support, demonstrating you have enough money to cover your expenses during your stay.
- Travel Health Insurance: Coverage for medical expenses within the Schengen area, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Visa Fee Payment: Proof of payment for the visa application fee.
Additional Documents (May Be Required):
- Cover Letter: Explaining the purpose and details of your visit to Croatia.
- Proof of Employment or Studies: Employed individuals should provide an employment letter or recent payslips. Students should present a letter from their educational institution confirming enrollment.
- Financial Sponsorship: If someone else is covering your expenses, a sponsorship letter along with the sponsor’s financial documents may be required.
- Criminal Record Certificate: In some cases, you may need to provide a certificate proving you have a clean criminal record for the past five years.
Important:
- Requirements can change, so it is always best to check the official Croatian consulate or embassy website for the most accurate and up to date information.
- Visa processing times can vary, so apply well in advance of your planned trip to Croatia.
Croatia Digital Nomad Visa
Croatia offers a special residence permit for digital nomads, allowing non EU citizens to live and work remotely in Croatia for up to one year. This visa is ideal for remote workers, freelancers and entrepreneurs who are employed by a company outside Croatia or run their own business remotely.
Essential Documents:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay, with at least one blank page.
- Completed Visa Application Form: Accurately filled out and signed, detailing your personal information and the purpose of your stay.
- Proof of Remote Employment or Business Ownership: Documentation such as an employment contract, proof of business registration, or similar documents showing that your work is conducted outside of Croatia.
- Proof of Income: Bank statements, payslips, or other financial documents showing that you have a stable income. The current minimum monthly income requirement is approximately HRK 16,907 (around €2,300), but this can change, so check the latest figures.
- Proof of Accommodation: A rental agreement, hotel reservation or other documentation proving your place of stay in Croatia.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance that covers your stay in Croatia with coverage for any medical expenses.
- Visa Fee Payment: Proof of payment for the application fee, which may vary depending on the consulate or application method.
Additional Documents (May Be Required):
- Cover Letter: A letter explaining your intention to work remotely in Croatia, including details about your job or business activities and why you chose Croatia.
- Background Check: A criminal record certificate from your home country or current country of residence may be required, showing you have a clean record.
- Marriage Certificate or Proof of Relationship: If you are applying with family members, you may need to provide proof of marriage or other legal documents.
Important:
- The digital nomad visa in Croatia is valid for up to one year and cannot be extended. After the visa expires, you may reapply after a six month period.
- Croatia’s digital nomad visa does not provide a pathway to permanent residence or citizenship.
- Always check the official Croatian government or consulate website for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as requirements and fees can change. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned relocation to Croatia.
Croatia Retirement Visa
Croatia does not have a specific retirement visa, but non EU citizens wishing to retire in Croatia can apply for a temporary residence permit based on financial self sufficiency. This permit allows retirees to live in Croatia as long as they can demonstrate they have sufficient funds to support themselves without needing to work.
Essential Documents:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay, with at least one blank page.
- Completed Temporary Residence Application Form: Accurately filled out and signed, providing your personal details and the purpose of your stay.
- Proof of Financial Self Sufficiency: Bank statements, pension statements or other financial documents showing that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Croatia. The specific amount required may vary, but it generally needs to meet or exceed the minimum wage or social security level in Croatia.
- Proof of Accommodation: A rental agreement, property deed or other documentation proving your place of residence in Croatia.
- Health Insurance: Proof of valid health insurance that covers your stay in Croatia. This can be private health insurance or in some cases, Croatian national health insurance if you qualify.
- Visa Fee Payment: Proof of payment for the residence permit application fee.
Additional Documents (May Be Required):
- Proof of Retirement: Pension statements or other documents confirming that you are receiving regular retirement income from your home country.
- Criminal Record Certificate: A clean criminal record certificate from your home country or current country of residence may be required, particularly for long term stays.
- Medical Certificate: In some cases, a certificate from a healthcare provider confirming that you are in good health might be required.
Important:
- Croatia’s temporary residence permit for financial self sufficiency is typically issued for one year and can be renewed annually. After five years of continuous residence, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence.
- This type of permit does not allow you to work in Croatia.
- Requirements and processes can change, so it is crucial to check the official Croatian consulate or government website for the most accurate and up to date information. It is also advisable to apply well in advance of your planned move to Croatia.
OTHER NOTES
ARE ID CARDS REQUIRED
ID Cards in Croatia: Requirements for Visitors and Residents
In Croatia, the requirements for carrying identification differ depending on whether you are a visitor or a resident.
For Visitors:
- EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: If you are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, you can enter and travel within Croatia using your national ID card or passport. While in Croatia, it is recommended to carry your ID card or passport at all times especially for interactions with authorities, checking into hotels or any situations requiring identification.
- Non EU Citizens: If you are a non EU citizen, you must have a valid passport to enter Croatia. It is important to carry your passport with you at all times as it is your primary form of identification. A visa may also be required depending on your country of origin and if so, it should be kept with your passport.
For Residents:
- EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: If you plan to stay in Croatia for more than 90 days, you must register with the local authorities. Upon registration, you will receive a registration certificate and may apply for a Croatian ID card (Osobna iskaznica). Although not mandatory, obtaining a Croatian ID card can be convenient for everyday transactions.
- Non-EU Citizens: If you are a non EU citizen with a temporary or permanent residence permit, you are required to carry your residence permit card with you at all times. This card serves as your primary identification within Croatia. Carrying your passport may still be necessary for certain official purposes.
Important:
- Legal Requirement: In Croatia, everyone is legally required to carry some form of identification at all times. Failure to present an ID when asked by authorities can result in fines or other penalties.
- Best Practice: Whether you are a visitor or a resident, it is advisable to carry a photocopy of your passport or ID card and keep the original in a safe place. This can help in case your ID is lost or stolen.
- For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult official Croatian government resources or local authorities.
ARE GM FOODS ALLOWED
Genetically Modified (GM) Foods in Croatia
Croatia has a cautious approach toward genetically modified (GM) foods with strict regulations in place to control their use import and sale.
Legal Status and Regulations:
- GMO Free Zones: Croatia has established many GMO free zones particularly in agricultural areas to protect traditional and organic farming practices. Local governments in many regions have declared themselves GMO free reflecting widespread public and governmental resistance to GM crops.
- Cultivation of GM Crops: The cultivation of genetically modified crops is generally restricted in Croatia. While technically allowed under EU regulations there are significant hurdles including strict approval processes and strong local opposition making it rare for GM crops to be grown.
- Import and Sale of GM Foods: While the cultivation of GM crops is limited the import and sale of GM foods are regulated but allowed. Any GM foods or products containing GM ingredients must be clearly labeled according to EU standards. This allows consumers to make informed choices but GM foods are less common in Croatian markets due to low consumer demand.
Consumer Attitude:
- Preference for Non GMO: Croatian consumers generally prefer non GMO and organic products. There is strong public sentiment against GM foods driven by concerns about health environmental impact and the preservation of traditional agriculture.
- Labeling Requirements: EU regulations mandate that any food products containing more than 0.9% GMOs must be labeled as such. Croatia follows these regulations closely ensuring that consumers are informed about GM content in their food.
Government Stance:
- Support for Organic Agriculture: The Croatian government promotes organic farming and supports agricultural practices that exclude GMOs. Croatia’s policies are aligned with maintaining biodiversity and supporting sustainable agriculture.
- Strict Monitoring and Enforcement: Croatia has strict controls in place to monitor GMOs in the food supply. Authorities regularly inspect food products to ensure compliance with labeling laws and to prevent unauthorized GM crops from entering the market.
Important:
- Market Presence: While GM foods can be found in Croatia they are not as common as in some other countries. The focus is on maintaining a GMO free agricultural environment particularly in areas known for organic farming.
- For the most accurate and up-to-date information on GM foods in Croatia consult official Croatian government resources or the Croatian Food Agency.
TRESPASSING - RIGHT TO ROAM
Trespassing and Right to Roam in Croatia
Croatia has specific laws regarding trespassing and the right to roam that visitors and residents should be aware of to avoid legal issues and to respect local customs.
Trespassing:
- Private Land: Entering private land without the owner’s permission is considered trespassing in Croatia and is generally prohibited. Landowners have the right to restrict access to their property and trespassing can result in fines or legal action. It is important to respect signs fences and boundaries that indicate private property.
- Public Land: You are free to access public lands including state owned forests parks and nature reserves. However you must follow any specific rules or regulations that apply to these areas.
Right to Roam:
- Limited Right to Roam: Unlike some other European countries Croatia does not have a general “right to roam” that allows unrestricted access to private land. Access is typically limited to marked public paths trails and designated areas.
- Hiking and Nature Reserves: Croatia offers an extensive network of marked hiking trails and nature reserves where the public can enjoy outdoor activities. These areas are well maintained and visitors are encouraged to stay on designated paths to protect the environment and wildlife.
Wild Camping:
- Regulated Wild Camping: Wild camping is not widely permitted in Croatia especially on private land or in protected areas. Camping outside designated campsites without permission is generally illegal and can lead to fines.
- National Parks and Protected Areas: In national parks and other protected areas camping is usually restricted to designated campsites. Wild camping in these areas without explicit permission can result in penalties.
- Forests and Public Lands: In some non protected forests and public lands wild camping might be tolerated for a single night if done responsibly but this is not officially allowed. It is always best to seek permission from local authorities or landowners.
Important:
- Local Regulations: Always check local regulations and seek permission if you are unsure about where you can roam or camp. Using official campsites and marked trails is the safest way to enjoy Croatia’s natural beauty.
- For the most accurate and up-to-date information on trespassing and the right to roam in Croatia consult local authorities or official Croatian tourism resources.
420 FRIENDLY?
420 Friendly Information – Croatia
Croatia has strict laws regarding the use possession and sale of cannabis and related substances. It is important to understand these regulations to avoid legal issues during your stay.
Legal Status:
- Illegal: Cannabis is illegal in Croatia for both recreational and medical use. Possession, use, sale and cultivation of cannabis are all prohibited under Croatian law. The country has a zero tolerance policy towards drugs including cannabis.
- Penalties: If caught with even small amounts of cannabis individuals can face serious legal consequences including fines mandatory drug treatment programs or imprisonment. The severity of the penalty depends on the amount of cannabis and the circumstances of the offense.
Public Attitude:
- Conservative Approach: Croatia has a conservative approach to drug policy with little public tolerance for cannabis use. The government actively discourages drug use and there is limited public support for the legalisation or decriminalisation of cannabis.
- Enforcement: Police strictly enforce drug laws particularly in urban areas and at major events. Random checks and raids are common especially in places known for nightlife.
Medical Cannabis:
- Limited Access: Medical cannabis is technically legal in Croatia but access is highly restricted and only available for specific medical conditions under a doctor’s prescription. Even then the use of medical cannabis is strictly regulated.
Travel Considerations:
- Tourists: Visitors to Croatia should be aware of the country’s strict drug laws and avoid any involvement with cannabis. Bringing cannabis into the country even in small quantities or for personal use can result in severe legal consequences.
- 420 Friendly Culture: Croatia does not have a 420 friendly culture and cannabis use is generally frowned upon. Those looking for a cannabis friendly environment should consider other destinations where laws are more lenient.
Important:
- Avoid Legal Issues: For a trouble free visit to Croatia it is best to avoid any involvement with cannabis. The laws are strict and enforcement is rigorous.
- For the most accurate and up-to-date information on cannabis laws in Croatia consult official legal resources or local authorities.