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With its warm climate, picturesque coastal towns, and centuries of fascinating history, Croatia is fast becoming a top choice for digital nomads who want that perfect balance of work and leisure. To top it all off, Croatia is renowned as one of Europe’s safest countries — offering a peaceful environment where you can fully enjoy your work, explore new places, and truly unwind. Keep reading to learn more about the Croatia digital nomad visa, how to apply, where to stay and more!
A digital nomad is a remote worker who uses technology to do their job from anywhere in the world. Most are freelancers, entrepreneurs, or employees of companies that offer flexible work options. They might be managing an online business, coding, designing, writing, marketing, or consulting — all jobs that can be done from a laptop or smartphone.
Besides working from home, they often enjoy working from cafes, co-working spaces, or other inspiring spots, making their workday feel a lot more flexible and adventurous — especially when they're in a beautiful country like Croatia.
Croatia’s digital nomad visa makes it easy for non-EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens to stay in the country for up to 18 months, enabling you to fully immerse yourself in Croatian life while keeping your career on track.
If you’re thinking about making Croatia your next home base, there are a few basic things you’ll need to have figured out first. The good news is, the process is straightforward, and the requirements are designed to make it accessible for many remote workers.
To qualify, applicants will need to meet these key criteria:
Applying is easy: just submit your request online through the official Croatian portal. In case you need a visa to enter the country, you can also apply through the Croatian embassy or consulate in your home country.
After submission, your application will be reviewed, and you may be asked for additional documents. Once approved, you'll receive a temporary residence permit, and upon arrival, you'll need to register your residence with local authorities within three days.
When submitting your application, you'll need to attach the following documents:
Note: Documents like proof of health insurance, proof of funds, proof of purpose, and criminal record must be submitted in Croatian or English. Translations by an authorized translator are required, and it’s important that all documents clearly indicate the currency.
Digital nomads in Croatia don't pay income tax on what they earn from abroad! As long as your clients or company are outside Croatia, and you're not diving into the local job market, that foreign-sourced income is tax-free.
Keep in mind, though, that if you fall in love with Croatia and spend more than 183 days here in a year, you might be considered a tax resident.
Life is always better when shared with loved ones, and Croatia makes it easy for digital nomads to bring their families along. Close family members can join you in Croatia under a family reunification permit, allowing them to experience the Croatian adventure by your side.
Croatia also recognizes long-term partnerships. If you've been with your partner for at least three years (or less if you have children), they're also welcome to join you, whether you're married or not.
It's important to remember that your family members' applications can only be approved after your digital nomad permit has been granted. Once you've secured your own permit, you can begin the process of bringing your family over, making Croatia a home for all of you.
Opting for Croatia as your digital nomad base opens the door to a seriously amazing lifestyle. And aside from the attractive tax benefits, here's what makes Croatia so special:
Looking for the perfect Croatian city to call home? Whether you crave city buzz or coastal calm, here's a peek at some top spots for digital nomads.
These inland cities offer a different flavor of Croatian life, away from the coast, and often at a more affordable price point.
The Croatian capital blends history, culture, and modernity. With a lively café scene, numerous coworking spots, and excellent transport links, Zagreb is perfect for digital nomads wanting vibrant city life without the coast’s bustle. The city also offers plentiful green spaces, museums, and a welcoming expat community.
Top coworking spaces:
Known for its charming baroque architecture and relaxed vibe, Osijek offers a more laid-back experience. Affordable living costs, great local food, and a friendly atmosphere make it a good choice for those seeking a quieter environment.
Top coworking space: Poduzetnički inkubator BIOS
Often called the “City of Baroque,” Varaždin boasts beautiful old town streets, parks, and cultural festivals. It’s ideal for those who want a mix of local traditions and a peaceful working environment.
Top coworking space: Technology Park
From historic walled cities to lively port towns, these coastal destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, all with the allure of the Adriatic Sea just steps away.
Croatia’s second-largest city and a hub of history and sea life, Split is perfect for remote workers who want vibrant city energy with seaside access. Its ancient Diocletian Palace creates a stunning backdrop, and the city features plenty of coworking spaces, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere.
Top coworking spaces:
Source: lonelyplanet.com
This vibrant port city offers a unique blend of industrial heritage, modern culture, and stunning coastal scenery. Known for its lively arts scene and colorful architecture, Rijeka provides a more alternative and edgy vibe compared to some of the more touristy coastal destinations.
Top coworking spaces:
Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik is famous for its stunning old town walls and maritime charm. While it can be busy, the city offers inspiring settings for work, with excellent Wi-Fi, cozy coffee shops, and a picturesque backdrop.
Top coworking spaces:
Home to the world-renowned Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun installations, Zadar offers a unique blend of modern art and natural beauty. Unlike the islands closer to Split, the nearby Zadar archipelago provides a more tranquil and less crowded island experience.
Top coworking spaces:
This picture-perfect town on the Istrian Peninsula is known for its stunning blend of Venetian architecture and rich artistic heritage. With its charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and thriving culinary scene, Rovinj offers a captivating and photogenic base for digital nomads.
Top coworking space: Coworking Rovinj-Rovigno
Famous for its Roman amphitheater, Pula offers a mix of history and seaside life. With excellent infrastructure and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s an excellent base for those looking to blend work and leisure.
Top coworking spaces:
Source: explore-croatia.net
Known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Euphrasian Basilica, Poreč combines cultural richness with beautiful beaches. The relaxed vibe and affordable living costs make it attractive for long-term stays.
Currently, no dedicated coworking spaces are known to be available. For now, remote workers can find workspaces in cafes and hotels.
Source: visit.croatia-hr.
A quieter spot on the Adriatic coast, Umag is perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy outdoor activities like tennis and cycling. Its tranquil environment and moderate rent prices make it ideal for focused work and relaxation.
Currently, no dedicated coworking spaces are known to be available. For now, remote workers can find workspaces in cafes and hotels.
For a truly unique Croatian experience, consider these island towns, where you can combine remote work with crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and a close-knit community.
Famous for its lively nightlife and stunning harbor, Hvar is also a fantastic place for remote working, especially if you love being close to nature and the sea. Although it can get busy in summer, there are quieter seasons for focused work.
Currently, no dedicated coworking spaces are available on Hvar. However, readily accessible coworking spaces can be found in nearby Split.
Home of the famous Zlatni Rat beach, Bol is a small town that combines beach life with authentic Croatian charm. It’s an excellent spot for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts who want a relaxed environment to work from, with reliable Wi-Fi in most cafes and accommodations.
Currently, no dedicated coworking spaces are available on Hvar. However, readily accessible coworking spaces can be found in nearby Split.
Known as “Little Dubrovnik,” Korčula boasts medieval walls and a charming old town. It’s perfect for those seeking tranquility, breathtaking scenery, and a supportive community of fellow remote workers.
Currently, no dedicated coworking spaces are known to be available. For now, remote workers can find workspaces in cafes and hotels.
Since introducing the digital nomad visa in 2021, Croatia has become a magnet for remote workers. It's easy to see why — reliable internet, a gorgeous climate, and welcoming locals make it a real alternative to the usual European hotspots.
With tourism and remote work blending seamlessly, Croatia now attracts thousands of digital nomads every year. They're particularly drawn to cities like Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik, which offer a perfect mix of history, culture, and modern comforts.
The Mediterranean lifestyle and countless outdoor activities — like sailing, hiking, and exploring national parks — further enhance Croatia's appeal for long-term remote workers.
Speaking of workspaces, Croatia’s coworking scene is steadily growing, set against stunning surroundings that make every workday feel more like a holiday. And even though dedicated spaces aren't yet available in every town, you can generally find peaceful and productive work environments in cafes, hotels, and libraries.
Croatia boasts a reliable internet infrastructure, with widespread 4G/5G coverage. An international eSIM is the easiest way for digital nomads to stay connected and avoid costly data roaming charges.
To help you choose the best option for your Croatian adventure, here’s an overview of the top eSIM providers, including their advantages and disadvantages.
| Provider | Pros | Cons | Price | |
| Holafly |  | Unlimited data, 24/7 customer support | No local phone number, limited hotspot sharing | From $6.90 per day |
| Nomad |  | Easy activation, reliable internet connection | Data-only plans, no unlimited plans | From $4.03 for 1 GB |
| Airalo |  | User-friendly app, hotspot sharing | Unreliable customer service, strict refund policy | From $4.50 for 1 GB |
Digital nomads can be found all over the country! It really depends on what you're looking for — some love the city buzz of Zagreb, while others prefer the sunny shores of Split or a more peaceful experience on one of the islands.
The processing time can vary, but it generally takes anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. So, it's always a good idea to apply early to give yourself plenty of time.
The short answer is, it depends. If you're earning money from abroad and not working for Croatian companies, you likely won't pay Croatian income tax. Just keep in mind that if you spend more than 183 days in Croatia in a year, you might be considered a tax resident.
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The best global eSIM provider
From $2.3/week
A reliable eSIM provider for budget travelers
From $2.4/week
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