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Croatia

Digital Nomad Residence Permit

Europe

Last verified 26 May 2026

About this visa & living in Croatia

Croatia's Digital Nomad Residence Permit is one of the best value visas in Europe, granting up to a year along the Adriatic coast with no income tax on foreign earnings. Split, Zadar and Dubrovnik run dedicated nomad villages, while Zagreb gives you a calmer inland city base with proper four-season weather. Costs sit well below Italy or Spain, the Schengen zone is on your doorstep, and ferry-hopping the Dalmatian islands is part of weekend life.

Visa at a glance

Minimum income: €3,622.50/month — 2.5× the prior-year Croatian average net salary; the formula re-indexes each spring (Narodne novine).
Length of stay: Up to 18 months (single grant or 12 + 6). Amended Aliens Act, in force 15 March 2025.
Processing time: ~2 months
Application fee: €90–€210 depending on application channel (consulate vs. police administration).
Tax treatment: Tax free / no local tax
Family members: Allowed
Renewable: No
Path to residency: No
Apostille required: Yes
Background check: Required
Where to apply: Either abroad or in-country
Local bank account: Can typically open one
Healthcare: Insurance required
Savings requirement: ~€43,470 proof of funds (12 months) ~€65,205 proof of funds (18 months)
Cost of living: ModerateGeneral affordability for a single nomad.
Bureaucracy: ●●●●●Heavy paperwork
Nationality restrictions: EU/EEA citizens

Required documents

Passport valid for full stay + 3 months
Proof of remote work for foreign company or own foreign-registered business
Income proof (≈ €3,622.50/month or 18× monthly amount in savings)
Croatian-recognised health insurance
Background check from country of residence
Croatian address registration (OIB number)

Things to know

After 18 months you must spend 6 months outside Croatia before re-applying.
Time spent on this permit does not count toward Croatian permanent residency.
Application can be filed online or at a Croatian consulate.

Visit official source

Always verify current requirements on the official government source.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum income requirement for the Croatia Digital Nomad Residence Permit?

The Digital Nomad Residence Permit requires applicants to show a monthly income of roughly €3,622.50/month — 2.5× the prior-year Croatian average net salary; the formula re-indexes each spring (Narodne novine).. This can usually be proven via employment contracts, freelance client agreements, or bank statements.

How long can I stay in Croatia on this visa?

You can stay for Up to 18 months (single grant or 12 + 6). Amended Aliens Act, in force 15 March 2025.. The visa is not renewable, so you will need to leave after the initial period and reapply if you wish to return.

How long does the application process take?

Processing typically takes ~2-4 weeks. We recommend applying well in advance of your planned move, as embassy workloads and seasonal spikes can cause delays.

Where do I apply for the Digital Nomad Residence Permit?

You can apply either from abroad or after arriving in Croatia.

Can I bring my family on the Digital Nomad Residence Permit?

Yes — spouses and dependent children are generally allowed to accompany you, though you may need to prove additional income or provide family relationship documents.

Will I have to pay local taxes in Croatia?

Foreign-source remote income is generally exempt from local income tax while on this visa. You should still confirm your home-country tax obligations.

Is the Digital Nomad Residence Permit renewable?

No, this visa is not renewable. After it expires you must leave Croatia and, if eligible, you may be able to reapply after a required absence.

Does the Digital Nomad Residence Permit lead to permanent residency or citizenship?

No, the Digital Nomad Residence Permit is a temporary permit and does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship in Croatia.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typical requirements include: Passport valid for full stay + 3 months; Proof of remote work for foreign company or own foreign-registered business; Income proof (≈ €3,622.50/month or 18× monthly amount in savings); Croatian-recognised health insurance; Background check from country of residence; and other supporting documents. Always check the official source for the latest list.