Permits, health checks and language: New rules for foreign workers in Croatia

Croatia is tightening controls on its labour market, introducing stricter oversight of foreign workers and employers, while aiming to reduce illegal practices and create a more stable and fair system.

Speaking on Croatian Radio’s U mreži Prvog, State Secretary at the Ministry of Labour and Pension System Ivan Vidiš said inspections have increased significantly, helping to curb undeclared work and unfair competition.

“The system is now better controlled, both for foreign workers and for employers,” Vidiš said.

Fewer permits, better planning

According to Vidiš, Croatia has issued 17 per cent fewer work permits compared to the same period last year.

At the same time, there are 10 per cent more registered workers in the Croatian Pension Insurance Institute, indicating stronger compliance.

“This shows that employers are planning better,” he explained, adding that around 40 per cent of work permits are now extensions rather than new applications. “We are reducing worker turnover and taking a more serious, long-term approach to foreign labour.”

Vidiš stressed that clear messages have been sent to those engaging in illegal practices, with the aim of protecting both workers and honest employers.

Permit figures and trends

Anita Mandić, Head of the Department for Legislation, Analytics and Projects related to the legal stay of foreigners and visas, said that around 67,000 residence and work permits have been issued so far this year.

While there has been a slight decline compared to last year, the overall number of applications remains similar. More than 260,000 applications have been submitted, with around 167,000 approved.

One of the most notable changes is the rise in extended permits. Previously, extensions accounted for around 25 per cent of permits, but this figure has now risen to over 40 per cent.

To date, around 69,000 permit extensions have been issued, nearly 79,000 permits for new employment, and close to 20,000 for seasonal workers.

Health checks for third-country nationals

New rules are also being proposed regarding health requirements. Miroslav Venus, President of the Croatian Epidemiological Society, confirmed that amendments to the Rulebook on the Stay of Third-Country Nationals are currently in public consultation.

Under the proposal, third-country nationals applying for their first temporary residence permit would need to submit a health certificate and vaccination status confirmation, no older than 90 days.

Language learning remains a challenge

Another key element of the reforms is encouraging foreign workers to learn Croatian.

Vidiš said language learning is fundamental for integration, noting that free Croatian language courses have been made available and co-financed through the European Social Fund.

However, participation has been low.

“There is still a lack of awareness about the importance of learning the language,” he said, adding that citizens are justified in expecting foreign workers to show at least a basic interest in learning Croatian.

“Our goal is a well-regulated labour market, not because of foreign workers, but for ourselves,” Vidiš emphasised.

Where foreign workers come from

Mandić also revealed which nationalities received the most permits this year. The largest number were issued to citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina (around 32,000), followed closely by Nepal (31,000), Serbia (24,000) and the Philippines (17,000).