Work authorisation
Stay and work permit (dozvola za boravak i rad). It is a single permit for temporary stay and work. The worker may work only in the job and for the employer named in the permit.
The employer applies. For new hires, the employer first asks the Croatian Employment Service (HZZ) for a labour market test. If no suitable unemployed people are found, HZZ informs the employer, who then has 90 days to apply for the permit. Applications that need a labour market test and/or an HZZ opinion are filed by the employer on the HZZ web platform. Shortage occupations on the HZZ Management Board list skip the test, but still need an HZZ opinion. The Ministry of the Interior (MUP), through the police administration or station, issues the permit. Employer conditions for a positive HZZ opinion include: registered in Croatia, no tax or contribution debts, and a minimum share of Croatian, EEA or Swiss full-time staff.
How you enter the country
After the permit is issued, a worker who needs a visa (for example from Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, India, Philippines or Bangladesh) applies for a long-stay visa D. It is valid for up to 30 days and is used to enter and collect the residence card. The application is made in person at a Croatian embassy or consulate or at a VFS Global centre. Fingerprints are taken. The window is from 3 months before to 3 months after the permit starts.
Processing times
Not stated on the official pages we opened. Neither the permit decision time nor the D visa processing time is given.
Documents you usually provide
- Employment contract signed by both sides, with an expected start date. It must state that the actual start depends on the permit, visa or residence registration
- Translated diplomas, certificates or proof of work experience, depending on the labour market test conditions. An employer statement is accepted only in limited cases
- Proof that the qualification is recognised in Croatia, if the profession is regulated
- For the D visa: signed application form, passport issued in the last 10 years and valid 3 months beyond the visa, with two blank pages
- 35x45 mm photo and fingerprints
- Proof of the issued stay and work permit
- Travel medical insurance for 30 days, valid for all of Schengen, minimum EUR 30,000
- Proof of travel and proof of visa fee payment (plus the VFS service fee if applying at VFS)
After arrival
Within 30 days of the D visa start date, go to the police administration or station to register the address and apply for the biometric residence permit (card). Bring a 30x35 mm photo and a valid travel document. Collect the card in person at the same office. The employer must tell the police about changes of accommodation and contract.
How Worrki helps
We confirm the job with the employer, coordinate the employer documents and check your package before you apply. You submit the application yourself and the authorities make the decision. See jobs and conditions in Croatia.
This summary was checked against the official pages listed below on 2 November 2026. Fees are set by the authorities and change often, so we do not quote them here. Always confirm the current requirements and fees with the consulate that serves your country of residence.