For third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA citizens), obtaining a work permit to legally reside and work in Croatia involves several steps. Here you can read an overview of the process, required documentation, and other important consideration.
Types of Work Permits
Third-country nationals must obtain both work permit and visa to be able to legally work in Croatia. The visa allows entry into Croatia, while work permit allows employment. There are several types of work permits based on the duration and nature of employment:
- Temporary Residence Permit with Work Authorization
This type of permit is the most common, and is issued up to one year, often renewable.
- EU Blue Card
This kind of permit is for high skilled workers, and it allows both residence and employment.
- Seasonal Work Permit
This permit is typically for work in tourism or agriculture, issued for a maximum of six months.
To apply for a work permit in Croatia, the following criteria must generally be met:
- The employer must demonstrate that no suitable candidate for the position exist within the Croatian or EU labor market
- The job must fall under a category that permits employment of third-country nationals, such as sectors with labor shortages (e.g. IT, construction, tourism).
- The foreign national must meet the qualifications and experience required for the job position
Required documentation
The specific documents required can vary depending on the type of permit and individual circumstances, but typically include the following:
- Valid Passport
That means that the passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended period of stay.
- Job Offer or Employment Contract
A formal offer from Croatian employer detailing the job position, salary, and other employment terms.
- Proof of Qualifications
That includes diplomas, certificates, and any necessary professional licenses that verify the applicant’s qualifications.
- Proof of Sufficient Financial Means
Applicant must show some type of evidence that the applicant can support themselves financially during their stay in Croatia.
- Health Insurance
In some occassions, applicant will need to have a proof of valid health insurance covering the entire period of stay.
- Criminal Record Check (PCC)
A police clearance certificate from the applicant’s home country proving they have no criminal convictions.
- Proof of Accommodation
A rental agreement or a letter of accommodation indicating where applicant will live during their stay in Croatia.
Phases for Croatia Work Permit
- JOB OFFER
Before applying for a visa, the foreign worker must secure a job offer from a Croatian employer. Employers often need to submit a labor market test to ensure that no suitable EU citizen is available for the position.
- SUBMITTING THE APPLICATION
Once a job offer is secured, the foreign worker or the employer can apply for the work permit at the The Ministry of the Internal Affairs Republic of Croatia, or at a Croatian embassy/consulate in the applicant’s home country. The application must include all the required documentation. For more information about getting residence and work permit, you can go here.
- APPROVAL PROCESS
The processing time for a work permit application can take several weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of the case. The Ministry of the Internal Affairs Republic of Croatia will review the application, ensuring that the job offer meets labor market requirements and that the applicant has provided all necessary documentation.
- VISA APPLICATON
After the work permit is approved, the applicant may need to apply for a visa to enter Croatia, unless they are from country with visa-free travel to the Schengen Ara. The visa application can usually be made at a Croatian consulate. For more information about visa requirements and issuance procedure, you can check here.
(Izvor: Freepik)
- ARRIVAL AND REGISTRATION
Once the worker arrives in Croatia, they must register their address with the local police station and complete any remaining formalities, such as obtaining a residence card.
Important Considerations
- Language Requirements
Although not mandatory, knowing at least basic words in Croatian language can significantly help the job search and permit process. Some employers might require knowledge of the language, depending on the job.
- Employer Sponsorship
The Croatian employer often plays a crucial role in the application process. The employer is usually responsible for initiating the process and proving that the job position cannot be filled by an EU citizen if that is required for the job that it was applied to.
- Residence Permit Renewal
A temporary residence permit and work permit are usually issued for up to on year. Renewals must be applied for in advance and require update documentation, such as a new employment contract.
- Family Reunification
Workers holding a residence permit for employment purposes may be able to bring close family members to Croatia under the family reunification process. However, additional requirements, such as proof of sufficient financial resources, may apply.
PROCESSING TIME AND FEES
The time required to process a work permit and visa can vary, but it generally takes between 1 to 3 months. The costs associated with the application may also vary depending on the type of visa and residence permit, but can include:
- Application Fee: Between 50 to 150 EUR, depending on the type of permit
- Visa Fee: Depending on the type of visa, it can range from 60 to 100 EUR
Role of Employment Agencies
Obtaining a work permit for Croatia as a third-country national involves careful planning, ensuring all documentation is accurate, and understanding the requirements for both the employer and the employee. Croatia’s immigration system seeks to balance its labor market needs with compliance with EU regulations, which means that the process can be complex.
However, with proper preparation, securing a work permit in Croatia is achievable. It is needed to make sure to check the latest updates from Croatian authorities, as the requirements may change over time, especially in light of economic or legislative shifts within the EU.
Temporary employment agencies in Croatia can play a significant role in facilitating the hiring of the third-country nationals. These agencies act as intermediaries, helping foreign workers find temporary or seasonal jobs in industries such as tourism, construction, or agriculture where labor shortages are common. They often handle the most of the administrative burden, including the application for work permits and coordination with Croatian authorities on behalf of both the employee and employer.
Additionally, agencies ensure compliance with local labor laws and streamline the hiring process, making it faster and more accessible for foreign workers to secure legal employment in Croatia. If you are looking for the right agency to help you with the process of obtaining work permit or applying for visa, don’t hesitate to contact us here or send a messange to mipemployment.cro@gmail.com.