From March 2025, Croatia will extend its digital nomad visa from 12 months to 18 months, making it one of the longest stays available in the EU for non-EU remote workers.
This update offers more than extra time—it provides flexibility, work-life balance, and fewer visa renewals, allowing remote professionals to enjoy Croatia’s coast, culture, and quality of life.
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What the Croatia Digital Nomad Visa Offers
Introduced in 2021, the digital nomad visa allows non-EU citizens to live in Croatia for up to 12 months while working remotely for companies or clients outside Croatia.
With the new update, the maximum stay is extended to 18 months, placing Croatia among the most accommodating EU destinations for location-independent professionals.
However, this visa does not permit work for Croatian companies.
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Key Changes in 2025
- Visa duration: Now up to 18 months (previously 12 months).
- Extension option: Apply for a 6-month extension if granted less than 18 months initially.
- Re-application wait: After your visa expires and you leave Croatia, you must wait 6 months before applying again.
These changes make it easier for digital nomads to stay long-term without frequent border runs.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must:
- Be non-EU/EEA citizens.
- Work remotely for a company or clients outside Croatia.
- Meet the minimum income requirement.
- Hold valid health insurance.
- Have no criminal record.
- Possess a valid passport.
Freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees are all eligible, provided their work is not tied to Croatia’s local economy.
Eligibility Requirements
You will need:
- Proof of remote work (contracts, client agreements, or business registration).
- Valid health insurance covering Croatia.
- Clean criminal record.
- Passport valid for at least 90 days beyond your intended stay.
- Proof of accommodation (rental contract or hotel booking).
Income Requirements
From May 2025, you must show a monthly income of at least $3,842.41.
If bringing family, add 10% for each dependent.
Alternatively, you may qualify by showing sufficient savings:
- 1-year visa: Minimum $46,106.01 in savings.
- 18-month visa: Minimum $69,158.72 in savings.
How to Apply
You can submit your application:
- 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.
Processing takes about 3–4 weeks, though delays can occur. Once approved, you will receive a temporary residence permit and biometric ID.
After Arrival
You must register your Croatian address within 3 days of arrival and personally collect your biometric residence permit. Your visa period begins on the date of approval.
Why This Matters
Many digital nomad visas last 6–12 months. Croatia now offers a longer stay without excessive barriers, combining EU access, modern infrastructure, pleasant climate, and coastal living. For remote professionals seeking a stable, scenic European base, Croatia’s update makes it one of the best options in 2025.
