a Croatia

For employment in Croatia, third-country nationals need to obtain a residence and work permit. This document combines the temporary residence permit and work authorization.

The process of obtaining a permit:

Labour market test:

Employer's actions: Before hiring a foreign worker, the employer must contact the Croatian Employment Service (HZZ) to conduct a labour market test. This is necessary to determine the availability of suitable candidates among local job seekers.

Exceptions: For certain shortage occupations, a labour market test is not required. The list of such occupations is published on the HZZ website.

Submitting the application for a residence and work permit:

Who submits the application: If a labour market test is required, the employer submits the application through the HZZ online platform. If the test is not required, the application can be submitted by either the employer or the foreign national to the appropriate police department at the place of intended residence or work.

Required documents:

- Completed application form (sample available on the website of the Ministry of the Interior of Croatia).

- Valid passport (validity must exceed the intended stay by at least three months).

- Colour photograph, size 35x45 mm.

- Proof of medical insurance.

- Confirmation of sufficient means of subsistence.

- Documents confirming the purpose of stay (e.g., employment contract).

- Certificate of no criminal record from the country of permanent residence.

- Proof of qualifications and work experience, if required for the specific position.

Obtaining the permit: After submitting the application and providing all necessary documents, the relevant authorities review the application and decide on issuing the permit. The permit is typically valid for up to one year with the possibility of renewal.

Exceptions:

Some categories of foreign nationals can work in Croatia without the need to obtain a residence and work permit. These categories include:

- Foreigners with temporary residence for family reunification with a Croatian citizen or a person with permanent resident status.

- Students working no more than 20 hours a week.

- Scientific researchers invited to conduct research.

- Other categories specified in the Aliens Act.

Additional Information

Medical Insurance: When submitting the application, proof of valid medical insurance covering emergency medical assistance and/or urgent hospital treatment is required. The minimum coverage amount must be equivalent to 30,000 euros.

Application deadlines: Visa applications can be submitted no earlier than 3 months before the intended trip. Applications must be submitted in person.

For the latest information, it is recommended to contact the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in your country or visit the official website of the Ministry of the Interior of Croatia. 

EU Citizens

Freedom of movement and employment: EU citizens have the right to freely enter, reside, and work in Croatia without the need for a visa or work permit.

Registration of residence: If an EU citizen plans to stay in Croatia for more than 90 days, they must register their residence at the local police department based on their residence.

Non-EU Citizens

Residence and work permit: Nationals from non-EU countries must obtain a combined residence and work permit for legal employment in Croatia.

For up-to-date information, it is recommended to refer to official sources such as the Ministry of the Interior of Croatia and the Croatian Employment Service. 

Using online job search platforms

MojPosao: One of Croatia's leading employment portals, where job vacancies, including offers for foreign workers, are advertised.

Posao.hr: A platform with a wide range of job offers in various industries.

Jooble: An international website aggregating job vacancies from various sources, including the Croatian labor market.

HeadHunter Croatia: A Russian-speaking resource offering vacancies from direct employers in Croatia.

Employment agencies

Job Hunter: A company providing recruitment services and assistance in obtaining necessary documents for foreign workers.

Mavista: Offers employment services in Croatia, including support and assistance at all stages.

Social networks and professional communities

The LinkedIn platform and specialized groups on Facebook can be useful for establishing contacts with potential employers and obtaining information about job vacancies.

Direct appeal to employers

If you have a list of companies of interest, it is recommended to visit their official websites and "Careers" sections for information on the current vacancies.

Considering seasonality

In Croatia, there is a high demand for workers in the tourism industry during the summer period, which opens opportunities for seasonal employment. 

For successful employment in Croatia, foreign citizens need to consider the following key requirements:

Language skills

Croatian language: Knowledge of the Croatian language is a significant advantage, especially in areas requiring direct communication with clients or colleagues. Some positions may require a basic or advanced level of language proficiency.

English language: In international companies and the tourism sector, proficiency in English is often sufficient. However, knowledge of Croatian expands employment opportunities and facilitates integration into the local community.

Qualification and education

Recognition of diplomas: If your profession is regulated in Croatia, nostrification of your foreign diploma may be required. This process confirms the compliance of your qualification with Croatian standards.

Highly qualified specialists: To obtain an "EU Blue Card" in Croatia, a higher education and a work contract with a Croatian employer for a period of at least one year are required. The salary must be at least 1.5 times the average annual gross salary in Croatia.

Work experience

Professional experience: Having proven work experience in the relevant field increases the chances of employment, especially for highly qualified positions. Recommendations from previous employers and portfolios can be useful.

Work and residency permits: Foreign citizens from non-EU countries must obtain a combined residence and work permit.

Additional requirements

Medical insurance: It is necessary to have valid medical insurance.

Financial means: Proof of sufficient funds for living in the country during the employment period is required. 

Qualified labor

Information Technology (IT): The demand for specialists in software development, system administration, and cybersecurity is constantly growing.

Mechanical engineering and manufacturing industry: Engineers, technologists, and automation specialists are in demand in the manufacturing sector.

Healthcare: Medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, are needed to meet the needs of the healthcare system.

Tourism and hospitality: Hotel managers, guides, and event specialists are in demand in the tourism industry, especially in season.

Education: Foreign language teachers and specialists in higher education are in demand.

Unskilled labor

Construction: Construction workers, such as masons, carpenters, and laborers, are in demand due to infrastructure development.

Agriculture: Seasonal workers for harvesting and other agricultural work are needed at certain times of the year.

Cleaning and janitorial services: Cleaning staff for premises, both in the commercial and private sectors, are constantly required.

Logistics and warehouse operations: Loaders, packers, and drivers are in demand in logistics and goods distribution.

Public Catering: Kitchen staff, waiters, and bartenders are needed in restaurants and cafes, especially during the tourist season.

For up-to-date information on in-demand professions, it is recommended to refer to official sources such as the Croatian Employment Service and the Ministry of Labor and Pension System. 

Croatia's pension system is based on a three-tier model combining mandatory and voluntary components.

First level (mandatory): A pay-as-you-go system funded by mandatory contributions from employees and employers. The total pension contribution amounts to 20% of gross wages, of which 15% goes to the first level. The state pension fund is responsible for collecting contributions and paying out pensions.

Second level (mandatory): A capitalized system with individual accounts managed by private pension funds. The remaining 5% of the total pension contribution goes to the second level. Individuals choose one of the compulsory private pension funds to manage their funds.

Third level (voluntary): Voluntary pension savings intended to increase future pension payments. The contribution amount is determined by the participant and can vary. The funds are managed by private voluntary pension funds.

Retirement Age:

Men: 65 years old.

Women: The retirement age for women is gradually increasing and will reach 65 years by 2030.

Minimum insurance period: To be eligible for a pension, you must have at least 15 years of insurance coverage.

Features for immigrants

Bilateral agreements: Croatia has social security agreements with several countries, allowing periods of insurance acquired abroad to be counted towards pension calculation.

EU citizens: Thanks to the coordination of social security systems within the EU, periods of insurance acquired in other member states are considered when calculating a pension in Croatia.

Pension taxation

Pension payments are subject to taxation in accordance with current legislation.

Additional information

Pension indexation: Pensions are indexed twice a year considering wage growth and the cost of living.

Early retirement: Possible with sufficient insurance coverage; however, the pension will be reduced due to the earlier start of payments.

For current information, it is recommended to refer to official sources such as the Ministry of Finance of Croatia and the Croatian Pension Fund. 

Pension insurance: Provides payments upon reaching retirement age, as well as in the event of disability or loss of a breadwinner.

Medical insurance: Ensures access to medical services, including primary and specialized care, hospitalization, and medications. The Croatian Health Insurance Institute is responsible for organizing and financing the system.

Unemployment insurance: Provides financial support and employment services to individuals who have lost their jobs. The Croatian Employment Service is responsible for benefit payments and job search assistance.

Social insurance for sickness and maternity: Ensures payments in case of temporary incapacity due to illness and maternity and parental leave benefits. The Croatian Health Insurance Institute coordinates payments and services in this area.

Insurance against work accidents and occupational diseases: Provides compensation and medical assistance in case of injuries or diseases related to professional activity. The Croatian Health Insurance Institute and employers jointly ensure the implementation of this program.

Financing of the social insurance system

Employee and employer contributions: Financing is through mandatory contributions, the amounts of which are set by law.

State budget: Additional funding is provided from the state budget to cover certain social programs.

For up-to-date information, it is recommended to refer to official sources such as the Ministry of Finance of Croatia and relevant state institutions responsible for various types of social insurance. 

In Croatia, labor relations are regulated by the Labor Code, which sets forth the rules concerning dismissal, leave, and public holidays.

Dismissal

Employer-initiated: An employer may terminate an employment contract with an employee on legal grounds, such as unsatisfactory performance, serious breaches of work duties, or organizational changes. The employer must provide written notice stating the reasons for dismissal and adhere to the legally prescribed notice periods, which depend on the employee's length of service.

Employee-initiated: An employee has the right to terminate their employment contract by notifying the employer in writing. The notice period is usually 30 days but may be modified by mutual agreement or a collective agreement.

Leave

Annual paid leave: Every employee is entitled to a minimum of 20 working days of paid leave per year. The duration of leave may increase depending on the employee's length of service, age, or the terms of a collective agreement.

Parental leave: Parents have the right to take parental leave until their child reaches a certain age. During this leave, the employer is not allowed to terminate the employment contract, except in cases of company liquidation or serious misconduct by the employee.

Public Holidays

In Croatia, 14 national holidays are observed, during which most workers are exempt from working. These days include:

January 1: New Year's Day

January 6: Epiphany (Three Kings)

Easter Sunday and Monday: Dates change annually

May 1: Labor Day

Corpus Christi: Date changes annually

June 22: Anti-Fascist Struggle Day

June 25: Statehood Day

August 5: Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and Day of Croatian Defenders

August 15: Assumption of Mary

November 1: All Saints' Day

November 18: Remembrance Day of the Victims of the Homeland War and Remembrance Day of the Victims of Vukovar and Škabrnja

December 25: Christmas Day

December 26: St. Stephen's Day

On these days, changes in the operating hours of institutions and public transport are possible, so it is recommended to plan your activities in advance.

For more detailed and up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult official documents or contact specialists in the field of Croatian labor law. 

Main Trade Unions

Union of Autonomous Trade Unions of Croatia: The largest trade union federation in the country, representing about 100,000 workers in more than 20 industries across both the private and public sectors; involved in collective bargaining, providing legal aid, organizing educational programs, and coordinating actions to protect workers' rights.

Croatian Trade Union Association: The third-largest trade union federation, founded in 1993, bringing together unions from the fields of education, healthcare, graphics industry, services, and social protection; participates in collective bargaining, defends the interests of its members, and promotes the improvement of working conditions in the respective sectors.

Association of Croatian Trade Unions: Founded in 1994, it unites 42 unions with a total membership of about 23,739, predominantly in the public sector; focuses on protecting workers' rights, organizing collective bargaining, and collaborating with international trade union organizations.

Digital Platform Workers Union: Established in 2021, represents the interests of workers engaged on digital platforms, such as delivery and ridesharing services; strives to improve working conditions, provide social security, and legal protection for digital platform workers.

How Trade Unions Can Help

Protecting workers' rights: Trade unions represent the interests of their members in negotiations with employers, ensuring compliance with labor laws and collective agreements.

Legal support: They provide consultations and assistance in cases of labor disputes, dismissals, or violations of workers' rights.

Collective bargaining: Participate in the development and conclusion of collective agreements that establish working conditions, salaries, and other benefits.

Education and training: Organize training sessions and seminars to enhance the qualifications of workers and inform them of their rights and responsibilities.

Social support: Provide assistance in matters of social security, such as pension insurance, medical care, and other social benefits.

Union membership provides workers with collective strength and resources to protect their interests and improve working conditions. 

Legal forms of business

Limited liability company (d.o.o.): The most common form for small and medium businesses. Requires a minimum authorized capital and limits the liability of participants to the amount of their contributions.

Simple limited liability company (j.d.o.o.): A simplified version of d.o.o. with minimal authorized capital, designed to facilitate the start of entrepreneurial activity.

Joint-stock company (d.d.): Designed for large businesses with more complex structures and capital requirements.

Sole proprietor (Obrt): Suitable for individuals wishing to conduct small business.

Registration procedures

START system: An online platform allowing business registration in a few steps, significantly reducing time and expenses.

HITRO.HR service: A state service that accelerates entrepreneurs' interaction with government agencies and provides the possibility of registering a d.o.o. or j.d.o.o.

e-Obrt: An online service for registering a sole proprietor, available through the START system or by visiting the relevant administrative authority in person.

Taxation

Corporate tax: The rate depends on the company's annual income:

- Up to 1,000,000 euros: 10%.

- Over 1,000,000 euros: 18%.

Value-added tax: The standard rate is 25%, with reduced rates of 13% and 5% for certain goods and services.

Social contributions: Employers are required to pay social security contributions for their employees.

Electronic services

START: A platform for online business registration available through e-Građani.

HITRO.HR: A service for accelerated company registration and interaction with government agencies.

For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult official sources such as Invest Croatia and gov.hr.