Croatia was among the first European countries to introduce a dedicated digital nomad visa, launching its program in January 2021. The Adriatic nation quickly became a favorite among remote workers, drawn by its stunning coastline, tax-free status for digital nomad visa holders, affordable cost of living, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to apply for Croatia's digital nomad visa in 2026, from eligibility requirements and required documents to tax rules, the best cities for remote work, and practical tips for daily life.
Overview of Croatia's Digital Nomad Visa
Croatia's digital nomad visa, officially called the temporary stay permit for digital nomads, allows non-EU citizens to live in Croatia for up to one year while working remotely for a foreign employer or their own foreign-registered company. The visa is non-renewable, meaning that after your year is up, you must leave Croatia and wait six months before reapplying. Despite this limitation, the program has attracted thousands of applicants thanks to its straightforward requirements and generous tax treatment.
Since Croatia joined the European Union in 2013 and the Schengen Area in January 2023, holding a Croatian digital nomad visa also gives you access to the broader Schengen zone for travel purposes, though your right to reside remains specific to Croatia. This means you can take weekend trips to neighboring countries like Slovenia, Italy, and Hungary without border checks, but your primary residence must remain in Croatia.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Temporary stay permit for digital nomads |
| Duration | Up to 1 year |
| Renewable | No (6-month gap required before reapplying) |
| Min. Monthly Income | EUR 2,539 |
| Application Fee | EUR 55 |
| Tax on Foreign Income | Exempt from Croatian income tax |
| Can Work for Croatian Clients | No |
| Family Members | Can apply separately with same requirements |
| Path to Permanent Residency | No (separate process required) |
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for Croatia's digital nomad visa, you must meet the following criteria.
- Non-EU/EEA citizenship. The visa is designed for citizens of countries outside the European Union and European Economic Area. EU/EEA citizens can already live and work freely in Croatia under EU free movement rules.
- Remote employment or freelance work. You must be employed by a company registered outside Croatia or operate your own business registered outside Croatia. You cannot provide services to Croatian companies or clients.
- Minimum monthly income of EUR 2,539. This threshold is set at approximately three times the average Croatian net salary and must be demonstrable through bank statements, employment contracts, or tax returns.
- Valid health insurance. You must have health insurance that covers the entire duration of your stay in Croatia. The insurance must be valid in Croatia and cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- Clean criminal record. You must provide a criminal record check from your country of nationality, apostilled or authenticated according to Croatian requirements.
- Proof of accommodation. You need evidence of where you will live in Croatia, such as a rental contract, hotel reservation, or letter from a host.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The application process for Croatia's digital nomad visa is relatively straightforward compared to many other European programs. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before you begin the application, collect all required documents. This is typically the most time-consuming part of the process, as some documents require apostilles or official translations. You will need the following.
- Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
- Completed application form for temporary stay
- Passport-sized photographs (two recent photos meeting Croatian requirements)
- Proof of income for the past six months (bank statements showing at least EUR 2,539 per month or an annual equivalent of EUR 30,468)
- Employment contract or proof of business ownership showing that your work is for a foreign entity
- Health insurance certificate valid in Croatia for the full duration of your stay
- Criminal record check from your country of nationality, apostilled and not older than six months
- Proof of accommodation in Croatia (rental agreement, hotel reservation, or notarized letter from a host)
- Application fee payment receipt (EUR 55)
Step 2: Submit Your Application
You can submit your application in two ways. If you are outside Croatia, apply at the nearest Croatian embassy or consulate in your country of residence. If you are already legally present in Croatia (for example, on a tourist visa or within the 90-day Schengen visa-free period), you can apply directly at the local police administration office (Policijska uprava) in the city where you plan to reside.
Applying in-country is generally faster and more convenient, as you can communicate directly with the processing officer and provide any additional documents they request. Many digital nomads enter Croatia on a tourist entry, find accommodation, and then submit their digital nomad visa application locally.
Step 3: Wait for Processing
The official processing time is up to 30 days from the date of submission, though in practice it can range from two weeks to six weeks depending on the volume of applications and the time of year. During peak summer months, processing may take longer due to higher application volumes. You are legally permitted to remain in Croatia while your application is being processed, even if your tourist entry period expires during this time.
Step 4: Receive Your Permit
Once approved, you will receive a temporary stay permit that is typically issued as a residence card. This card serves as your official identification and proof of legal residence in Croatia. You will also need to register your address with the local police within three days of finding your permanent accommodation.
Step 5: Register for an OIB
After receiving your residence permit, you should apply for a Croatian OIB (Osobni Identifikacijski Broj), which is a personal identification number used for various administrative purposes. While not strictly required for digital nomad visa holders, having an OIB makes daily life significantly easier, as it is required for signing rental contracts, opening utility accounts, and various other transactions.
Tax Rules for Digital Nomads in Croatia
One of Croatia's biggest advantages for digital nomads is its tax treatment. Under the digital nomad visa, holders are exempt from Croatian income tax on their foreign-sourced income. This means that the money you earn from your foreign employer or clients is not subject to any Croatian taxation.
However, this exemption comes with important caveats and considerations.
What the Exemption Covers
The tax exemption applies specifically to income earned from entities registered outside Croatia. If you are employed by a company in the United States, the United Kingdom, or any other non-Croatian entity, your salary is exempt from Croatian income tax. Similarly, if you are a freelancer with clients based outside Croatia, your freelance income is exempt.
What the Exemption Does Not Cover
The exemption does not allow you to work for Croatian companies or provide services to Croatian clients. If you do so, that income would be subject to Croatian taxation, and you would also be in violation of the terms of your digital nomad visa. Additionally, the exemption does not necessarily exempt you from tax obligations in your home country. Many countries, including the United States, tax their citizens on worldwide income regardless of where they reside. You must continue to comply with your home country's tax filing requirements.
Social Contributions
Digital nomad visa holders are not required to pay Croatian social contributions (health insurance and pension contributions) as they are not part of the Croatian employment system. However, this also means you do not have access to the Croatian public healthcare system. You must maintain private health insurance throughout your stay.
For more detailed information about navigating tax obligations across multiple European countries, see our comprehensive tax guide for digital nomads in Europe.
Best Cities for Digital Nomads in Croatia
Croatia offers several excellent cities for remote work, each with its own character, advantages, and community. Here are the top options.
Zagreb
Croatia's capital is the most practical choice for digital nomads who prioritize infrastructure, coworking spaces, and a year-round urban lifestyle. Zagreb has a continental climate with distinct seasons, a thriving cafe culture, and a growing tech startup scene. The city offers the widest selection of coworking spaces in Croatia, including Hubhub Zagreb, WESPA Spaces, and Impact Hub Zagreb. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from EUR 500 to EUR 800 per month, making it one of the most affordable European capitals. Internet speeds are excellent, with fiber connectivity widely available.
Zagreb's main drawback for some is that it is not on the coast. However, the Adriatic coast is just two to three hours away by car, making weekend beach trips entirely feasible. The city also has excellent public transportation and is well-connected to other European cities by air and rail.
Split
Split is the largest city on the Croatian coast and offers a compelling blend of Mediterranean lifestyle, historical charm, and modern infrastructure. The city's Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, forms the living heart of the old town, with restaurants, shops, and apartments nestled within its ancient walls. Split has several coworking spaces, including Coworking Split and Smartoffice, and the digital nomad community has grown significantly since the visa program launched.
Rent in Split ranges from EUR 500 to EUR 900 for a one-bedroom apartment, depending on proximity to the waterfront. The city has good internet infrastructure, and its airport connects to numerous European cities. Split is also an excellent base for exploring the nearby islands of Hvar, Brac, and Vis. For a broader look at European coastal cities for digital nomads, check out our guide to the best cities in Europe for digital nomads.
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is arguably Croatia's most famous city, known worldwide for its stunning medieval walls and Old Town. While it is primarily known as a tourist destination, Dubrovnik has a small but growing digital nomad community. The city offers a unique working environment, particularly during the shoulder seasons (October to November and March to May) when tourist crowds thin out and the city reveals a more authentic, local character.
The main challenges in Dubrovnik are higher costs (it is Croatia's most expensive city) and the intense tourist traffic during summer months. A one-bedroom apartment in or near the Old Town can cost EUR 700 to EUR 1,200 per month, and daily expenses are noticeably higher than in Zagreb or Split. Coworking options are more limited, though the situation is improving. Dubrovnik works best for digital nomads who can afford a premium lifestyle and prefer a smaller, more intimate community.
Zadar
Zadar is a lesser-known gem that offers much of what Split and Dubrovnik provide but at lower prices and with fewer tourists. The city has a beautiful old town, excellent restaurants, and a growing digital nomad scene. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from EUR 400 to EUR 700, and the city has reliable internet infrastructure. Zadar is also home to unique attractions like the Sea Organ, a musical instrument played by the waves, and the Sun Salutation, a solar-powered art installation.
Zadar's main limitation is its smaller size and fewer coworking options compared to Zagreb or Split. However, for digital nomads who value affordability, a relaxed pace, and easy access to both coast and countryside, Zadar is an excellent choice.
Rijeka
Rijeka, Croatia's third-largest city and 2020 European Capital of Culture, is an emerging option for digital nomads. The city has a gritty, industrial charm that sets it apart from the polished tourist cities further south. Rent is affordable at EUR 400 to EUR 650 for a one-bedroom apartment, and the city has a small but growing creative and tech community. Rijeka also offers easy access to the Istrian Peninsula, known for its wine, truffles, and picturesque hilltop towns.
Coworking Spaces in Croatia
Croatia's coworking scene has expanded rapidly since the digital nomad visa program launched. Here are some of the top options across the country.
| Space | City | Monthly Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hubhub Zagreb | Zagreb | EUR 180 – 280 | Meeting rooms, events, high-speed Wi-Fi |
| WESPA Spaces | Zagreb | EUR 150 – 250 | Flexible plans, community events |
| Impact Hub Zagreb | Zagreb | EUR 160 – 300 | Social enterprise focus, networking |
| Coworking Split | Split | EUR 120 – 200 | Near waterfront, terrace, meeting rooms |
| Smartoffice | Split | EUR 130 – 220 | Dedicated desks, private offices available |
| Zadar Cowork | Zadar | EUR 100 – 160 | Community focus, workshops, affordable |
Daily Life as a Digital Nomad in Croatia
Living in Croatia as a digital nomad offers a lifestyle that balances professional productivity with Mediterranean enjoyment. Here is what to expect in terms of daily life.
Cost of Living
Croatia offers a significantly lower cost of living than Western European alternatives. A single person can live comfortably on EUR 1,200 to EUR 1,800 per month outside of Dubrovnik, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. This budget allows for a good apartment, regular dining out, and a social lifestyle. Groceries are affordable, with a weekly shop for one person costing EUR 40 to EUR 60. Dining at local restaurants, known as konobas, is excellent value, with a full meal including wine costing EUR 15 to EUR 25.
Internet and Connectivity
Internet infrastructure in Croatia has improved significantly in recent years, with fiber-optic connections available in all major cities. Average download speeds in Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik range from 50 Mbps to 200 Mbps, which is more than sufficient for video calls, file sharing, and most remote work tasks. Mobile data coverage is excellent across the country, with 4G available everywhere and 5G rolling out in urban areas. A prepaid SIM card with a generous data allowance costs approximately EUR 10 to EUR 20 per month.
Transportation
Croatia has a good public transportation system within cities, with buses and trams (in Zagreb) providing affordable and reliable service. Monthly passes cost EUR 35 to EUR 50. For travel between cities, buses are the most common and affordable option, with companies like FlixBus and Croatia Bus operating frequent services along the coast and inland. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the islands and countryside, with prices starting at EUR 25 to EUR 40 per day.
Healthcare
As a digital nomad visa holder, you will rely on private health insurance rather than the Croatian public healthcare system. Private healthcare in Croatia is of good quality, particularly in larger cities where private clinics offer English-speaking staff and modern facilities. The cost of private healthcare is reasonable by European standards, with a standard consultation costing EUR 50 to EUR 100. For routine medical needs, pharmacies (ljekarne) are well-stocked and pharmacists are generally knowledgeable and helpful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Based on the experiences of thousands of digital nomads who have applied for Croatia's program, here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Insufficient income documentation. The most common reason for application delays or rejections is inadequate proof of income. Ensure your bank statements clearly show consistent monthly deposits above EUR 2,539 for at least the past six months. Employment contracts should explicitly state your salary and confirm that your work is remote.
- Expired or incorrect criminal record check. Your criminal record check must be apostilled and not older than six months at the time of application. If you start gathering documents early, ensure this particular document is one of the last you obtain.
- Inadequate health insurance. Some applicants have been rejected for providing health insurance that does not meet Croatian requirements. Make sure your policy explicitly covers Croatia (or the EU/Schengen area), includes emergency hospitalization and medical repatriation, and is valid for the full one-year period of the visa.
- Assuming the visa is renewable. Many digital nomads are surprised to learn that Croatia's visa is non-renewable. You must plan for what comes after your year in Croatia, whether that means moving to another country, returning home, or waiting six months to reapply. Some nomads alternate between Croatia and another country, such as Spain or Portugal, to maintain a European lifestyle.
- Working for Croatian clients. The digital nomad visa explicitly prohibits providing services to Croatian companies or clients. Violating this condition can result in revocation of your visa and potential legal consequences. If you receive inquiries from Croatian businesses, politely decline or refer them to local professionals.
Is Croatia's Digital Nomad Visa Right for You?
Croatia's digital nomad visa is an excellent choice if you value a tax-efficient, affordable, and lifestyle-rich destination with a straightforward application process. The program is particularly well-suited for digital nomads who want to spend a year enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle without the complexity of longer-term residency planning. The tax exemption on foreign income is a significant advantage, and the country's natural beauty and warm culture make it an unforgettable experience.
The main limitations are the non-renewable nature of the visa and the absence of a direct path to permanent residency. If your goal is to build a long-term life in Europe, you may want to consider countries with more flexible renewal options and residency pathways, such as Spain or Portugal. For a full comparison of all options, see our guide to every European country offering a digital nomad visa in 2026.
To understand how Croatia's program compares with other visa types, including freelance visas and tourist visas, read our detailed comparison of digital nomad visa types.
