Croatia Extends Digital Nomad Visa: Updated Regulations, Costs, and Application Guide

Exciting news for remote workers! Croatia is extending its digital nomad visa from 12 months to 18 months starting March 2025. This change enhances the appeal of Croatia for digital nomads, offering more time to work and explore the beautiful Adriatic coast.

Overview: Croatia Digital Nomad Visa

Launched in 2021, Croatia’s digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live and work in the country legally. Originally valid for up to one year, the new update increases the stay to 18 months. This makes Croatia one of the most welcoming EU destinations for digital nomads and location-independent professionals.

It’s important to note that while you can enjoy life in Croatia, you cannot work for a local company under this visa. Instead, you can immerse yourself in Croatian culture, enjoying the sun, sea, and rich history while earning your income from abroad.

What’s New in 2025?

• The most significant change is the visa duration.
• You can now stay in Croatia for up to 18 months from the start.
• If you receive an initial approval for less than 18 months, you can apply for a 6-month extension. Make sure to submit this request at least 60 days before your current permit expires.
• Once your visa period concludes, you’ll need to exit Croatia and wait six months before you can reapply.

This new policy positions Croatia as one of the most flexible options in the EU for digital nomads, eliminating the need for frequent Schengen visa runs.

Who Can Apply?

The visa is open to individuals who:

• Are not citizens of the EU/EEA
• Work remotely for companies or clients outside Croatia
• Meet the minimum income requirements
• Possess health insurance, a clean criminal record, and a valid passport
• Freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees can all apply, as long as their work does not involve the local economy.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the digital nomad visa, you need to provide:

• Proof of remote work (such as contracts or business registration)
• Private health insurance valid in Croatia
• A clean criminal record
• A valid passport (must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay)
• Proof of accommodation (like a rental agreement or hotel booking)

How to Apply for Croatia’s Digital Nomad Visa

You can submit your application in three ways:

• Online via the official Croatian government portal
• At a Croatian embassy or consulate in your home country
• In person at a local police station in Croatia

After submitting your application and fees, it will be reviewed by the authorities. Approval typically takes 3-4 weeks, although delays can occur.

Croatia’s Digital Nomad Visa Fees

Here’s a breakdown of the costs, depending on your application location:

If applying from abroad:

• Temporary Stay: €63
• Long-Term Visa: €105

If applying from within Croatia:

• Temporary Stay: €52.50
• Biometric Residence Card: €36
• Administrative Fee: €10.50
• Optional Fast Track: €67.50

After approval, register your local address within 3 days of arriving in Croatia if you’re already there. You’ll also need to collect your biometric residence card in person.

Extended Validity for Multiple Work Permits

Croatia has also extended the validity of several work permits, such as:

• Regular Work Permit: from 1 year to 3 years
• EU Blue Card: from 2 years to 4 years
• Seasonal Work Permit: from 6 months to 9 months

This extension allows foreign workers to stay longer with fewer bureaucratic hurdles.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve considered working remotely in Europe, Croatia has made it easier than ever. With an 18-month visa, breathtaking coastlines, and a vibrant lifestyle, it’s an excellent choice for digital nomads looking to settle in. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience all that Croatia has to offer!