Digital Nomad Visa in Croatia
Work remotely, live freely – everything you need to know about staying in Croatia as a digital nomad under the 2025 Foreigners Act.
What is the Digital Nomad Visa?
The digital nomad visa allows non-EU citizens who work remotely to live in Croatia for up to one year without becoming a tax resident. Introduced in 2021 and improved significantly by the 2025 amendments to the Foreigners Act, the visa is designed for individuals employed by or providing services to non-Croatian companies.
Digital nomads can reside in Croatia while continuing their international remote work, enjoy visa-free movement within the Schengen Area, and experience Croatia’s lifestyle, infrastructure, and connectivity.
Who Qualifies as a Digital Nomad?
- Be a non-EU/EEA citizen
- Work remotely for a foreign company or your own business registered outside Croatia
- Not engage in work for Croatian employers or clients
- Have proof of income or sufficient funds
- Hold valid health insurance
- Provide a clean criminal record
This visa is ideal for software developers, marketing consultants, content creators, designers, and other professionals who rely only on a laptop and internet connection to work.
Eligibility Criteria (Updated for 2025)
Under the revised Foreigners Act, the process has been simplified and modernized. As of 2025, the main requirements include:
- Proof of remote work: Employment contract or freelance service agreement with foreign clients
- Monthly income threshold: As of 2025, applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least €3,295 or show a one-time proof of funds amounting to €39,540.00 in a foreign bank account.
- Valid passport: With at least 3 months validity beyond the stay
- Private health insurance: Covering Croatia for the entire duration
- Clean background check: Criminal record certificate not older than 6 months
- Croatian address: Lease agreement or confirmation of accommodation
Applicants can now submit some documents in English and benefit from a more streamlined review process introduced in 2025.
How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa
Step-by-Step Process
- Gather documents
- Submit the application – online via the Croatian Ministry of the Interior or in person at a Croatian embassy/consulate
- Wait for approval (typically 4–6 weeks)
- Enter Croatia (if applying from abroad)
- Register residence address at the local police station
- Receive biometric residence card
You can apply from within Croatia if you are already in the country on a short-term visa (e.g. as a tourist).
Required Documents
- Application form
- Copy of valid passport
- Proof of remote work (contracts, company ownership)
- Bank statements or income verification
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance policy
- Criminal record certificate
What’s New in 2025: Key Improvements
- Clearer income criteria with EUR benchmarks
- Simplified submission of documents (some in English allowed)
- Faster decision timelines for digital nomad applications
- Greater flexibility to apply from within Croatia
- Extended duration of stay: Digital nomads can now be granted a residence permit valid for up to 18 months, instead of the previous 12-month maximum
These updates have made Croatia one of the most accessible and appealing destinations for remote workers in the EU. Notably, digital nomads may now also benefit from the possibility of extending their stay beyond the initial one-year period, subject to meeting updated requirements and applying for a new purpose of stay where applicable.
Can You Work for Croatian Companies?
No. The digital nomad visa does not permit employment or service provision to Croatian companies or clients. You must maintain your professional relationship with a foreign employer or client during your stay.
Violating this rule may lead to revocation of your visa and restrictions on reentry. If your circumstances change and you receive a local job offer, you’ll need to apply for a different type of residence permit.
Digital Nomad Taxes in Croatia
One of the main benefits of the Croatian digital nomad visa is the tax exemption during your approved stay. As long as your work is for a non-Croatian company and your stay does not exceed the visa period, you are not considered a Croatian tax resident.
Kontić Legal offers general legal guidance on tax-related considerations that may affect digital nomads in Croatia. While we are not specialized tax advisors, we help clients understand the basic framework of the tax-exempt status granted under Croatian law during the validity of the digital nomad visa. For more detailed or country-specific tax matters, including issues related to double taxation treaties or tax residency, we can refer clients to trusted tax professionals with whom we regularly collaborate.
When Might Taxes Apply?
- If your stay exceeds the visa duration or you spend more than 183 days in Croatia in a calendar year
- If you begin working for a Croatian entity
- If you transition to another type of long-term residence
In such cases, tax obligations may arise. It’s important to assess this early with appropriate legal or tax support.
Family Reunification: Bring Your Loved Ones
You don’t have to experience Croatia alone. Family reunification is allowed under the digital nomad visa scheme. Spouses, children, and partners can apply for a residence permit as accompanying family members.
Kontić Legal assists with:
- Preparing and submitting family residence applications
- Confirming accommodation requirements for families
- Helping with enrollment in international or local schools
- Coordinating insurance coverage for all family members
Best Places to Live as a Digital Nomad in Croatia
Zagreb
- Capital city, excellent infrastructure, coworking spaces, international community
Split
- Coastal city with Mediterranean vibe, direct access to islands, dynamic expat life
Zadar
- Affordable, picturesque, growing remote work community
Dubrovnik
- Historic city with limited winter activity but stunning views and summer connectivity
Your location depends on your priorities: cost of living, lifestyle, access to airports, climate, or cultural scene. We help clients evaluate what’s best for them.
Practical Help for a Smooth Transition
At Kontić Legal, we support digital nomads not only with their visas, but with the everyday legal aspects of life in Croatia:
- Obtaining an OIB (Croatian personal identification number)
- Reviewing and registering rental contracts
- Advising on residence registration
Why Work with Kontić Legal?
Kontić Legal is a Zagreb-based law office with strong expertise in immigration and business law. We’ve helped numerous remote professionals relocate to Croatia under the digital nomad scheme.
We combine:
- Up-to-date knowledge of the 2025 Foreigners Act
- Personalized legal service tailored to expats
- English-speaking legal support
- Transparent, flat-fee packages
- Efficiency and responsiveness
Our aim is to make your transition to Croatia smooth, secure, and legally compliant – so you can focus on work and enjoy the lifestyle Croatia offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply from Croatia?
Yes, if you’re already in Croatia on a valid tourist visa, you may apply directly without leaving the country.
Do I need to pay taxes in Croatia?
Generally no, provided you meet the exemption criteria outlined in Croatian law.
Can I bring my partner and children?
Yes, family members are eligible for residence permits as your dependents.
What happens after one year?
Currently, the visa is limited to one year with no renewal. However, some digital nomads explore other residence options (e.g. work permits, opening a business, or temporary stay for other purposes).
Do I need to register a company?
No, unless you plan to change your residence status in Croatia. Many digital nomads remain employed abroad or operate their foreign-registered business.
Ready to Make the Move?
Start your digital nomad journey in Croatia with the legal clarity and peace of mind you deserve.
Contact Kontić Legal to book your initial consultation or request a quote for digital nomad visa assistance.
Let us handle the legal side – so you can enjoy Croatia’s sun, sea, and simplicity while working remotely.
