Islamabad, 21 Apr, 2025: Croatia has introduced sweeping immigration reforms aimed at transforming the country into a magnet for international talent.
The changes include longer work permit durations, relaxed rules for digital nomads and skilled migrants, and new flexibility for job transitions.
As per authorities, the reforms are intended to make the country more appealing for skilled foreign professionals while addressing local workforce shortages.
The updates focus on reducing bureaucracy, providing job security, and attracting high-caliber individuals from across the globe.
The validity period for several key visa types has been extended. Regular work permits, which previously lasted just one year, will now be valid for three years.
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EU Blue Cards, a key pathway for skilled workers within the European Union, will be extended to four years.
Digital nomads can also now stay up to 18 months, a six-month increase from the previous limit.
Officials have overhauled the EU Blue Card system, now allowing IT professionals with three years of recent experience to qualify without a formal degree.
Moreover, cardholders will no longer need to reapply when changing jobs, provided they meet certain conditions.
Freelance work is now also permitted, if authorities are notified within five days.
Foreign workers will benefit from greater job flexibility. Those with standard work permits can remain in Croatia for up to 60 days after losing a job.
READ MORE: Croatia Eases Visa Rules to Tackle Labour Shortage
EU Blue Card holders are also protected from immediate loss of legal status upon employment termination.
Other significant updates include the right to take second jobs (limited to eight hours per week) and the rollout of biometric work permits for enhanced security and smoother processing.
Authorities stated that these reforms are part of a long-term strategy to attract high-skilled talent and reduce dependence on temporary staffing agencies.
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Quick Overview of Key Visa Changes
| Permit Type | Old Validity | New Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Work Permit | 1 year | 3 years |
| EU Blue Card | 2 years | 4 years |
| Digital Nomad Visa | 12 months | 18 months |
| Seasonal Work Permit | 6 months | 9 months* |
