21 Secrets About Living In Croatia To Know Before Moving

Croatia is a place where you can enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle, feel like you’re in Italy, and island-hop like you’re in Greece (at half the price, of course). What’s not to love?

It’s easy to see why it’s the expat destination of choice!

Let’s look at everything you need to know before moving to Croatia!

Sections

1. Learn some basic Croatian

Making an effort to learn the basics of the Croatian language will not only be greatly appreciated by the locals, but it will save you tons of frustration. Imagine trying to explain your symptoms to the doctor or dealing with admin if no one at the office can speak or understand basic English. Talk about stressful!

Croatian people are amiable, and most of the younger locals can speak English, but if you want to thrive in Croatia, you should start learning Croatian.

2. Visa and permits

If you live in Croatia for longer than 90 days, you will need a long-stay visa and a temporary or permanent residence permit. And if you want to work in the country, you will also need a work permit or a business visa sponsored by a Croatian employer.

When applying for a temporary residency permit, you will need the following:

your valid passport (original and copy)
your birth certificate (and a certified translation)
a passport photo (in color)
proof of income
proof of international health coverage
evidence of the purpose for your stay (family, work, studies, etc.)
your criminal background check (with a certified translation)
if you are traveling with a minor child – proof of consent from both parents

The visa fee is $113 if you apply from abroad or 660 HRK ($98) if you use within Croatia. You can find more information on Croatia’s Ministry of Interior site or the Croatian Government site.

Are you an EU national? You can enter Croatia without a visa and work freely without a work permit. Those who intend to live in Croatia (for more than three months) will still need to apply for residence permits. (*Austrians excluded.)

3. The costs of living in Croatia

Living in Croatia will typically be lower than living in your native country if you’re from the US or a western European country.

According to stats, living expenses, including rent, are 91.55% lower in Croatia than in the US. Combine that with a higher than average Croatian salary, and you’ll be living very comfortably in this incredible country.

Your cost of living will depend on whether you choose to live in one of the major cities versus more small towns and whether you choose to live a more westernized expat life instead of living like the locals.

Also, keep in mind that expats might face expenses like international school fees – which can be costly.

4. Taxes in Croatia

Croatia’s taxes are high, and you will be affected if you earn an income within the country or become a tax resident.

What makes you a tax resident? If you stay in Croatia for 183 days or longer (your visa is not temporary), or if you own or rent a residence there for the same period above (irrespective of if you are physically in the country).

Tax residents are typically taxed on their worldwide income. For example, an American expat could be liable to pay taxes in both the US and Croatia since there is no double taxation treaty in place between the two countries.

5. It’s a safe place to raise a family

Croatia ranked 26th in the world in the recent Global Peace Index, almost five times better than the USA, ranking 121st.

The indicators used to determine these scores are obtained from 3 categories: militarization, safety and security, and domestic and international conflict.

Croatia is a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union (EU), meaning they have protection from immense multi-national support structures.

You can have peace of mind knowing your family will be safe in Croatia.

6. The work-life balance

Croatian employees have among the most extended working hours in the EU, according to Eurostat 2019 data.

Average Croatian workers spend 39.9 hours at work weekly, with Bulgaria and Romania being the only two nations working longer hours (over 40.4 hours a week!).

Compared to a country like the Netherlands, they only work about 29.3 hours a week – Croatian employees don’t have a very balanced work life.

7. Croatia is a land of diverse terrains

Croatia’s peculiar shape – wide from east to west in the north and a narrow strip from north to south along the sea – explains its diverse terrain and climate.

From the low coastal plains of Slavonia to the remote hilly landscapes heading towards Bosnia, you’ll come across several different beautiful terrains, cave systems, and beaches throughout the country.

8. Croatian cuisine

Croatia is foodie heaven! Its central European location has allowed many different regions to influence the food scene.

Inland Croatian cuisine is distinctly Austrian-Hungarian, while the coast boats the Mediterranean with a flair of Italian. Typical Croatian dishes include grilled seafood or meat cooked with abundant fresh produce.

Try some of these popular Croatian foods:

Strukli: Pastry filled with cottage cheese and sour cream.
Black risotto: Rice made with squid ink.
Brodetto: ‘Fisherman’s stew.’
Istarski fuzi: Homemade, hand-rolled pasta.

Croatian citizens greatly emphasize families coming together to share a lovely meal.

9. Truffle hunting is huge in Croatia

You’re in for a gourmet surprise if you’ve never tried a truffle! It has to be on your Croatian food bucket list.

The forests on the magnificent peninsula of the Istria region, home to the Dalmatian Coast, are where the highly-prized delicacy known as Tuber Magnatum Pico, or white truffle, can be found.

This unique, oh-so-tasty fungus grows in very few regions of Europe and is hunted by highly trained dogs (not pigs – as most people think).

Look for ‘konoba’ on the menu at traditional restaurants – the truffles are grated on top of pasta, mixed into cheese, infused into olive oil, and even added into ice cream.

Once you try it, there’s a high chance you’ll get hooked!

10. Island hopping is a popular activity

If you enjoy island life, you will love Croatia! It’s home to over a thousand gorgeous islands.

The most popular one of all is Hvar. If you only visit one island, make sure it’s this one. Many expats choose to settle here for a good reason.

On the other hand, there’s the almost untouched island of Vis – the perfect place for nature lovers. If you’re into watersports and beautiful beaches, visit Brac too, where you’ll find the famous Zlatni Rat beach.

11. Getting around in Croatia

When it comes to public transport, your best option is taking the bus. Bus services are efficient and reasonably priced, with extensive country coverage.

For island-hopping or riding along the coast, there’s a good network of ferries and catamarans that operate all year round.

The railway in Croatia is limited and slower than buses, so it isn’t recommended.

If you want to travel around the country at your own pace, consider getting a car.

12. Croatia is one of the safest countries in the world

Whether day or night, you will feel highly safe walking through the streets as an expat in Croatia.

According to stats from Numbeo, the crime levels in the cities of Split, Rijeka, and Croatia’s capital, Zagreb, are considerably low.

Regardless, it’s essential to be vigilant – petty crime is common throughout Europe, so always hold on to your belongings.

13. Vegetarians and vegans may find it difficult

A 2018 survey found that Croatia isn’t very accommodating for those following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. They were ranked the 6th worst country in Europe for vegetarians!

Finding vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Croatia can be a struggle, as meat is a significant part of the highly carnivorous Croatian diet.

However, things are looking positive with vegetarianism becoming more popular these days. Around 4% of the population is estimated to be vegetarian.

14. Croatian culture and traditions

Over 90% of Croatia’s inhabitants are ethnic Croats, making it quite a homogeneous country. The other 10% counts for minorities, including Serbs, Bosniaks, Italians, Hungarians, Czechs, Slovenes, Roma, etc.

Roman Catholicism largely influences the population, and they observe many religious public holidays.

Special national holidays that commemorate critical historical events in Croatia include Anti-Fascist Resistance Day, Statehood Day, and National Day.

15. This beautiful game is king in Croatia

Soccer is life for the Croatians. It’s not surprising since their national team made it to the 2018 FIFA World Cup final.

From Dubrovnik up to Osijek, the country is filled with highly passionate soccer fans who show extreme pride for their teams.

Attend a soccer match in Croatia and feel the captivating atmosphere!

16. The Croats are very style-conscious

A nation that dresses to impress, Croatia has no lack of style. Some say fashionistas influence them in Italy or that they have long desired to be part of the European elite.

Whatever the reason, the streets of Croatia are always filled with locals in their very best attire!

17. Family is everything in Croatia

Unlike most Western countries, Croatian children often stay with their parents until marriage. Family always comes first, and they’re usually the center of social life for Croats.

If you think about moving to Croatia with your family, you’ll be delighted to know that Croatians love kids!

18. The old Croatian currency was named after a rodent

As of 2023, Croatia uses the euro like most of the other members of the European Union (EU).

However, did you know that the Kuna, Croatia’s former currency, was named for an indigenous weasel-like rodent whose hide was used as payment in medieval times?

Although most EU countries currently use the Euro, the Croatian heritage still lives on in the Kuna!

19. Croatia is full of natural wonders

From topaz lakes, rich forests, and endless mountain ranges to gorgeous beaches and untouched islands – Croatia has it all.

If you enjoy hiking, climbing, or bird watching – you’re in for a real treat. Croatia has eight national parks and eleven nature parks, including Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the oldest in south-eastern Europe.

Popular outdoor activities include kayaking and white water rafting on beautiful rivers, like Mreznica or Kupa. Be sure to explore the magnificent Velebit and Veternica Caves.

20. Tipping is not expected

Generally, gratuities are not expected throughout the country, but if you feel impressed with the service, a tip will always be greatly appreciated by the locals.

If you thoroughly enjoy your meal and excellent service at a restaurant, feel free to tip the waiter 10%. You can also consider leaving around 20 Kuna for porters or housekeeping staff.

21. Croatians love coffee

If caffeine is part of your daily ritual, you’ll fit right in with the Croats. And I don’t mean drinking coffee on the go.

Locals prefer to dedicate an hour (or two) to enjoy their favorite cup of joe around a crowded table.

When in Croatia, you’ll notice that the waterfront cafes are always buzzing, and you won’t find a single Starbucks. Coffee is never a takeaway – it’s meant to be savored, not rushed. And coffee dates are always a good idea!

FAQs

Do you need health insurance in Croatia?

As a permanent resident in Croatia, buying a Mandatory Health Insurance (MHI) plan is compulsory. You can buy it from the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (CHIF) or the HZZO.

What sea borders Croatia?

The beautiful Adriatic Sea borders the county in the southwest – be sure to take a dip in the warm water in summer!

Is Croatia a member of the European Union?

Yes, Croatia has been a member of the EU since 1 July 2013.

This means that all EU citizens can stay and work in Croatia.

Where do most expats live in Croatia?

There are large expat communities in Rovinj, Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Split, and the island of Hvar.

Final Thoughts

Once you spend a few weeks or even days in this beautiful country, you will soon understand why foreigners choose to make it their home and why they don’t want to leave Croatia anytime soon.

You’ve got a lot to look forward to moving to if you’re planning on moving!