Croatia extends its Digital Nomad visa

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Croatia has taken a step in welcoming remote professionals by extending the duration of its digital nomad visa to 18 months. Originally introduced in January 2021, this visa allowed eligible foreign nationals to live in Croatia for up to one year without the need for local employer sponsorship. As of April 2025, the maximum stay permitted under this scheme has been officially extended, further enhancing the country’s appeal as a destination for location-independent workers.

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This visa was introduced in response to the evolving nature of global work, where increasing numbers of professionals are choosing to operate remotely from countries that offer a high quality of life, reliable infrastructure, and legal certainty. Croatia’s digital nomad visa enables foreign nationals to reside in the country while working for companies or clients based outside Croatia, without being subject to the conventional employment-based immigration requirements. This distinction makes the program especially attractive to freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees seeking a legally compliant base in Europe.

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Applicants must meet specific criteria, including providing evidence of health insurance coverage and a police clearance certificate confirming the absence of a criminal record. They are also required to submit documentation that proves the existence of a remote working arrangement, whether through employment, contract work, or self-employment with an overseas entity. These requirements are consistent with other temporary stay permits in Croatia but are specifically adapted to accommodate the digital nomad lifestyle.

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The recent extension from 12 to 18 months offers remote professionals greater flexibility and stability, allowing them to integrate more fully into Croatian society without the disruption of frequent renewals or relocation. This move also reflects Croatia’s broader strategy to position itself as a competitive destination for global talent, combining ease of access with the country’s well-known cultural and environmental advantages.

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The information provided does not amount to legal advice.