Croatia Visa Requirements and Travel Information

Croatia is an endlessly appealing destination with sun-drenched beaches, picturesque hilltop towns, and atmospheric streets. Many come for the Dalmatian Coast delights and Istria’s rural charms. Others are here for superb hiking routes, treasured national parks, food and drink experiences, or the chance to enjoy hip Zagreb’s art, music, and cafes.

Fortunately, the government has ensured that entry into Croatia is straightforward for most visitors. Croatia joined the European Union (EU) in 2013 and became part of the free-traveling Schengen Area in January 2023. This means travelers from much of Europe can enter Croatia with minimal paperwork.

Do I need a visa for Croatia?

Citizens of EU countries do not require a visa for stays of any length; they can even enter using just an ID card. The same applies to members of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) such as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

Several other nations also do not need a visa. However, starting mid-2025, visitors traveling to Croatia (and most of Europe) will need to apply for the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before departing. This applies to countries such as the UK, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Bosnia and North Macedonia, as well as travelers from Canada, the US, most of Latin America, Australia, New Zealand, and several Asian nations, including Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan.

How often do I need to get an ETIAS?

The ETIAS is valid for three years and costs €7. It allows travelers to enter 30 European countries frequently for short-term stays, typically up to 90 days in any 180-day period. It is crucial to have a passport valid for at least three months after your planned departure from Croatia. While applications are usually approved within hours, it is advisable to apply well in advance to avoid any potential delays.

How do I apply for a Croatian tourist visa?

Not every nationality can travel to Croatia without a visa. Countries such as China, India, Pakistan, Russia, Turkey, and South Africa require visitors to obtain a visa. For specific requirements, check the official website of Croatia’s Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.

The website offers detailed information about the requirements for individual countries and relevant embassy locations. Most pages include links to the applicable VFS Visa Application Centre, where you can find out about costs (usually €80 for applicants 12 years and older, €40 for children aged six to twelve, with no fee for kids under six) and start the application process.

Tourist or business visa applications, valid for up to 90 days, should be initiated online. However, applicants may eventually need to submit their applications in person at an embassy, consulate, or VFS Visa Application Centre. It is recommended to start your application no more than three months before your trip.

In rare cases, visas may be issued at the border, but this is under exceptional circumstances and can pose a risk of being turned away.

Can I extend a Croatian visa?

Citizens of the EU and EFTA, as well as Swiss nationals, can stay as long as they wish. For travelers from other countries on a visa or visa-free entry, there are limits: typically a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. There are exceptions for:

• Extensions due to serious personal circumstances.
• Longer stays for individuals employed in seasonal work or studying in Croatia.
• Those intending to settle in Croatia may apply for residency.

Can I work in Croatia?

For EU or EFTA citizens (including Swiss nationals), working in Croatia is straightforward. However, individuals from outside the EU can work in Croatia but must meet specific requirements set by the Croatian Employment Service to demonstrate that they fill a gap in the local workforce. Highly qualified professionals intending to establish residency in Croatia may qualify for an EU Blue Card.

For those seeking seasonal employment in agriculture, forestry, catering, and tourism sectors, the requirements are less stringent; a simple job offer might suffice for a 90-day stay.

You may be eligible for a digital nomad visa in Croatia

If you’re looking to swap your conventional workspace for a vibrant cafe in Zagreb or a stunning apartment overlooking the Adriatic, digital nomads working for themselves or a non-Croatian company may be eligible to stay in Croatia for up to a year provided they meet the necessary application criteria.

This article was originally published on June 9, 2021, and was updated on March 14, 2024.