Croatia confirms free ID cards for all children under 18

(Photo: MUP)

ZAGREB, 21 January 2026 (Hina) – The Ministry of Demography and Immigration has confirmed that the first issuance of personal identity cards for children under the age of 18 will remain free of charge.

The measure applies to all Croatian citizens under 18 who have registered residence in Croatia, regardless of their families’ financial circumstances.

According to the Ministry, the initiative is designed to ensure that every child in Croatia has equal and simple access to basic rights, continuing a policy that has been in place for several years.

“An identity card is not just a document, it is a child’s first step towards independence and active participation in society,” the Ministry stated.

Possession of an ID card enables children and young people to more easily access educational and healthcare services, other public services, and an increasing range of digital services that are now an essential part of everyday life in Croatia.

By covering the cost of the first ID card, the state is also relieving pressure on household budgets and providing direct support to parents and guardians.

The Ministry highlighted that in 2025 alone, the measure benefited 39,678 children, with more than €526,500 allocated from the state budget for its implementation.

Looking at the longer-term impact, between 2021 and 2025, a total of 209,424 children’s identity cards were issued under the programme, representing an investment of €2.74 million.

These figures, the Ministry said, demonstrate the state’s ongoing commitment to creating equal opportunities for all children in Croatia, ensuring that no child is disadvantaged when accessing fundamental services and rights.