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🇭🇷 EU / International

Digital Nomad Permit (Croatia)

Tax-Free Remote Work in a Schengen Country

Easy ~20 min Digital NomadCroatiaRemote WorkTax-Free

/ What is this form?

Croatia's Digital Nomad Permit (since 2021) allows non-EU and non-EEA citizens to live in Croatia for up to 1 year while working remotely. The major benefit: digital nomads are exempt from Croatian income tax. Croatia joined the EU in 2013 and the Schengen Area in 2023, making it an attractive base for exploring Europe.

/ Who needs this form?

  • Non-EU/EEA remote workers
  • Freelancers with foreign clients
  • Must earn at least HRK 19,000/month (~€2,540)

/ What you need before you start

Valid passport
Proof of remote employment or freelance activity
Proof of income (~€2,540/month minimum)
Health insurance valid in Croatia
Proof of accommodation in Croatia
Clean criminal record

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Check Income Requirement
You need proof of at least HRK 19,000/month (approximately €2,540) from a foreign employer or clients. Collect bank statements, employment contracts, or freelance agreements.
2 Secure Accommodation in Croatia
Find and confirm accommodation before applying. You'll need a rental contract or accommodation proof for your application and to register your address within 3 days of arrival.
3 Gather Required Documents
Prepare: valid passport, proof of income (3 months minimum), employment contract or freelance contracts, health insurance valid in Croatia, and a clean criminal record certificate.
4 Apply at the Croatian Police (MUP)
Submit your application to the Ministry of Interior (MUP) in Croatia — either in person or through a Croatian consulate abroad. There is no application fee for the permit itself.
5 Register Your Address Within 3 Days
After finding accommodation, register your address with local police within 3 days. This is mandatory and a common oversight for new arrivals.

/ Key fields explained

Field What to enter Common mistake
Dokaz o radu Evidence of remote work — employment contract or client contracts showing work is for non-Croatian entities You cannot work for Croatian companies on this permit — only foreign employers and clients are permitted

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Working for Croatian companies on the permit (not allowed — foreign employers only)
Not registering your local address within 3 days of finding accommodation
Attempting to renew (not possible — must leave and reapply with a 6-month gap)

/ Frequently asked questions

Do I pay taxes in Croatia?

No. Digital nomad permit holders are exempt from Croatian income tax. You pay taxes in your country of tax residence instead.

Can EU citizens apply?

No. EU and EEA citizens already have the right to live in Croatia. This permit is specifically for non-EU/EEA nationals.