Complete guide on how to become a digital nomad in Croatia

Croatia is a popular choice for digital nomads seeking a harmonious blend of work and leisure in Europe. With the introduction of the Croatia Digital Nomad Visa in 2021, non-EU citizens now have the opportunity to work in and enjoy one of the best European countries to live in.

This article will provide a comprehensive guide on obtaining a Croatia Digital Nomad Visa, including information about the process, requirements, and benefits.

What you need in order to get a digital nomad visa in Croatia

To qualify for the Croatia Digital Nomad Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Non-EEA/EU citizenship: This visa is exclusively available to individuals not citizens of any European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) country.

2. Adequate income: You must demonstrate a minimum monthly income that is equal to 2.5 times the average net salary in Croatia, as published by the Croatian Bureau of Statistics. As of 2023 this amount is about 2,500 euros ($2,750) per month. If you plan to bring family members, you must show an additional 10% per month for each dependent.

3. Health insurance: You must have valid health insurance coverage applicable in Croatia for your stay.

4. Clean criminal record: You must provide a legalized certificate of good conduct from your home country or any country you have resided in for the past year to demonstrate your clean criminal record.

5. Croatian address: You must secure temporary accommodation in Croatia, such as renting an apartment, and provide evidence of a confirmed booking or a rental agreement.

6. Remote work: You must be employed or engaged in remote work for a company outside of Croatia. It’s important to note that working for Croatian employers or companies is not permitted under this visa category.

The application process for the Croatia Digital Nomad Visa

There are two ways to apply for the Croatia Digital Nomad Visa: through a Croatian embassy, consulate, or online. Let’s take a closer look at the application process for each method:

1. Applying at a Croatian Embassy or Consulate

• Fill out the 1A application form on the embassy’s website or the Croatian Ministry of Interior’s website.
• Gather all the required documents, including a valid passport, completed application form, proof of income, health insurance coverage, criminal record certificate, and proof of temporary address.
• Schedule an appointment at the nearest Croatian embassy or consulate and submit your application in person.
• Await notification regarding the status of your application. If approved, you will receive instructions for collecting your visa.

2. Applying Online

• Complete the designated online application form for the Croatia Digital Nomad Visa.
• Submit the application form electronically, which will be forwarded to the relevant authorities in Croatia.
• You may be asked to provide additional documents as requested by the authorities.
• Wait for an email notification regarding the outcome of your application.
• Once approved, you must register your temporary residence within three days of arriving in Croatia.

Benefits of the Croatia Digital Nomad Visa

Obtaining a Croatia Digital Nomad Visa offers several advantages, including:

1. Tax benefits: As a digital nomad with this visa, you are exempt from paying income tax in Croatia for your remote work. However, it’s essential to fulfil your tax obligations in your home country.
2. Favorable climate: Croatia enjoys pleasant Mediterranean weather, with warm summers and mild winters, providing a comfortable lifestyle throughout the year.
3. Reliable internet connection: Croatia boasts a well-developed digital infrastructure, ensuring a stable and dependable internet connection, which is vital for remote work.
4. English proficiency: English is widely spoken in Croatia, facilitating communication for non-Croatian speakers and fostering an inclusive environment for digital nomads.
5. Safety and security: Croatia is considered a safe country, offering a secure environment for both locals and visitors. The United States ranks Croatia as a Level 1 destination, indicating its safety.
6. Affordable cost of living: Depending on your lifestyle choices and location, Croatia offers a relatively affordable cost of living, with reasonable prices for daily necessities and transportation.
7. Cultural and natural wonders: As a digital nomad in Croatia, you can immerse yourself in the country’s rich cultural heritage and explore stunning natural landscapes, such as Krka National Park, the historic city of Dubrovnik, and more.
8. Welcoming community: Croatians are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature, making it easy to connect with locals and fellow digital nomads and fostering a supportive and inclusive community.

Costs and validity of the visa

The fees associated with the Croatia Digital Nomad Visa vary depending on the application method. Please note that these amounts may change over time.

• Applying at an embassy: The fees include €55 for granting a temporary visa, €60 for the digital nomad visa, and €310 for a residence card.
• Applying online: The fees consist of €45 for administrative fees, €30 for a residence permit, and €60 for urgent issuance of the residence card.
• Applying at a police station: The fees comprise €45 for granting a temporary visa, €10 for administrative fees, €30 for a residence card, and €60 for urgent issuance of the residence card.

The Croatia Digital Nomad Visa is valid for one year. However, if you plan to stay for a shorter duration, your visa will be valid for that specific period. You can renew your visa, but you must wait for six months after the expiration of your previous visa before reapplying.

Best places for digital nomads in Croatia

Croatia offers several appealing destinations for digital nomads, with pretty natural amenties at your doorstep, as well as a conducive work environment and networking opportunities. Here are some popular cities for digital nomads in Croatia:

1. Zagreb: As the capital city of Croatia, Zagreb attracts numerous digital nomads due to its abundant opportunities. It hosts events like the Zagreb Digital Nomad Week. It offers co-working spaces such as ŠenoaHub, InstantOffice, WESPA Spaces, Hub385, and BIZkoshnica Coworking.
2. Rijeka: Aside from its beautiful beaches and national parks, Rijeka provides coworking spaces like RiHub and Klub mladih Rijeka, catering to digital nomads seeking a productive work environment.
3. Split: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning beaches, Split is one of the best places to live in Croatia, without a doubt. The town offers coworking spaces such as Scaleup Office Split, The Works and Coworking Space Split Meridien Ten. Its proximity to the beach allows for a perfect work-life balance.
4. Dubrovnik: With its welcoming ambiance, Dubrovnik offers fast internet connectivity and a range of work-friendly coffee shops, making it an appealing destination for digital nomads seeking a unique working experience.
5. Zadar Valley: Also known as the Digital Nomad Valley Zadar, this is another popular destination for foreign remote workers. It provides collaborative working spaces, enabling digital nomads to engage in various activities and foster connections with like-minded individuals.

Tax considerations for digital nomads in Croatia

Tax obligations as a digital nomad in Croatia depend on the tax regulations of your home country and any existing tax treaty agreements between your home country and Croatia. Consider the following scenarios:

1. Home country taxation: If your home country requires you to pay taxes on worldwide income, you must fulfill your tax obligations even if you are not physically present in your home country. Croatia’s tax regulations do not exempt you from paying taxes in your home country.
2. Tax treaty agreement: If your home country has a tax treaty agreement with Croatia, you may be exempt from double taxation. It is advisable to consult a tax professional or seek guidance from relevant authorities to understand your specific tax obligations.

Conclusion

Croatia’s Digital Nomad Visa offers an attractive opportunity for remote workers to live and work in a beautiful and welcoming country. Croatia has become an appealing destination for digital nomads seeking a balanced lifestyle with its breathtaking landscapes, affordable living, and supportive community.

Whether you explore the coastal cities or the vibrant capital, Croatia offers an enriching experience that combines work and leisure seamlessly. Please note that the information provided here is intended as a general overview, and it is essential to consult professionals or relevant authorities to ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations.