Permanent Residency Croatia
Your Path to Permanent Residence Croatia Starts Here
If you’ve lived legally in Croatia for several years and are ready to make this your long-term home, you may be eligible for permanent residency in Croatia. This status offers long-term stability, expanded rights, and a gateway toward citizenship — but the process can be complex without the right legal support.
At Kontić Legal, we help foreign nationals navigate every step of the process with clarity, confidence, and professionalism. Based in Zagreb and fluent in both Croatian and English, we serve clients worldwide who are planning their future in Croatia.
What Is Permanent Residency in Croatia?
Permanent residence Croatia is a legal status granted to foreign nationals who have legally resided in Croatia for an extended period — typically five years or more — without significant interruptions. It allows you to live and work in Croatia indefinitely, without having to renew your permit each year.
Key Benefits:
- Unlimited stay and freedom of movement within Croatia
- Right to work without additional permits
- Access to health insurance and social programs
- A critical step toward Croatian citizenship
Unlike temporary residence, which must be renewed annually, permanent residence is issued without an expiry date (although the biometric card is renewed every 5 or 10 years).
Who Can Apply for Permanent Residency in Croatia?
You may qualify if:
- You have continuously held temporary residence in Croatia for five years or more
- You are a third-country national (non-EU citizen)
- You have sufficient financial means and accommodation
- You have passed the Croatian language and culture exam
- You have no serious criminal record
Special categories:
- Spouses and family members of Croatian citizens
- Persons under international protection
- Those who transition from other legal grounds (e.g. work, study, digital nomad) with a consistent residence history
Permanent Residence in Croatia: Legal Requirements Checklist
To be eligible, you must meet the following requirements:
- 5+ years of uninterrupted legal stay in Croatia
- Valid temporary residence at time of application
- Passed Croatian language and culture exam
- Clean background check from home country and Croatia
- Stable income or financial means
- Proof of suitable accommodation
- Valid health insurance
We provide a personalized document checklist for every client to ensure nothing is missed.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Permanent Residency in Croatia
Applying for permanent residence requires detailed planning and careful documentation. Here’s how we guide you through the process:
Step 1: Legal Assessment
We assess your eligibility and advise on any legal risks or missing conditions.
Step 2: Document Preparation
We gather and prepare all required documentation — including background checks, income proof, health insurance, and accommodation verification.
Step 3: Language Test Registration
We guide you through registration for the Croatian language and culture exam and refer you to certified prep courses if needed.
Step 4: Filing the Application
We submit your application in person or via power of attorney to the competent police station or Ministry of the Interior.
Step 5: Follow-Up and Decision
We follow up with authorities, resolve any objections, and notify you when your decision is issued. Upon approval, you receive a biometric card confirming your permanent status.
Why Work with Kontić Legal?
We are a boutique Zagreb-based law firm trusted by expats, professionals, and investors across the globe.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Very high success rate with residence applications
- End-to-end service including document prep & filing
- Remote support for international clients
- Deep experience with family reunification, work-based, and investor residence paths
- Personalized case strategy and ongoing legal guidance
Common Questions About Permanent Residency in Croatia
How long do I need to live in Croatia to apply?
At least 5 continuous years on approved temporary residence, with minor absences allowed.
Can digital nomads apply?
Not directly. However, we assist digital nomads in transitioning to other legal grounds (such as work or family reunification) that can count toward permanent residence.
What is the Croatian language requirement?
You must pass the Croatian language and culture test unless exempt. We guide you through the process and refer you to prep resources.
How long does the process take?
Usually at least 6 months, depending on your documentation and the workload of your local police station.
Is permanent residency a path to citizenship?
Yes. After holding permanent residence for several years, you may become eligible to apply for Croatian citizenship under certain conditions.
Our Legal Support: From Start to Approval
Kontić Legal helps you:
- Verify eligibility for permanent residence
- Avoid rejections due to incomplete or misunderstood applications
- Collect and legalize documents (apostilles, translations)
- Navigate the language and culture exam
- Act on your behalf with the authorities via power of attorney
- Monitor your case and manage communication with the Ministry
We frequently work with:
- Expats who own property in Croatia
- Foreign investors or business owners
- Families with Croatian spouses or children
- Clients with unclear or undocumented legal status
Ready to Apply? Let’s Talk
Take the next step toward legal certainty and long-term life in Croatia.
Request a Legal Consultation and let our team assess your eligibility for permanent residency.
