Article Overview
Croatia has become a popular destination for workers from outside the EU, especially in construction, tourism, hospitality, transport and manufacturing. The country uses a combined stay and work permit, and the process is led by the Croatian employer. This guide explains how it works and what workers from Pakistan and other countries should check.
The stay and work permit
Non-EU nationals who want to work in Croatia usually need a stay and work permit (dozvola za boravak i rad). It combines the right to live and work in Croatia for a specific employer and role. Croatia abolished its old annual quota system in 2021, and since 2025 most applications go through a labour market test instead.
Step 1: An employer and a job offer
The process starts with a Croatian employer who wants to hire you. The employer must be a registered company in good standing and must offer terms that meet Croatian labour law, including at least the applicable minimum wage and proper working conditions.
Step 2: The labour market test
In most cases, the employer must first ask the Croatian Employment Service (HZZ) to check whether suitable workers are available locally. If no suitable candidates are found, HZZ issues a positive opinion. Some occupations listed as shortage occupations, and some short-term seasonal jobs, may be exempt from the test.
Step 3: Application for the permit
After a positive opinion, or where no test is needed, the permit application is submitted to the Ministry of the Interior (MUP) through the competent police administration, often by the employer on the worker's behalf. Processing commonly takes several weeks.
Step 4: Visa and entry
Once the permit is approved, workers who need a visa to enter Croatia apply for an entry visa at the Croatian embassy or consulate responsible for their country. Pakistani nationals generally need a visa to enter Croatia.
Step 5: After arrival
After arriving, the worker registers their address and completes biometrics for the residence card. The permit is tied to the employer, so changing jobs usually requires a new permit.
Documents commonly required
- Valid passport.
- Employment contract or binding job offer.
- Proof of qualifications or experience for the role, translated where needed.
- Proof of accommodation in Croatia.
- Health insurance and, in some cases, health documentation.
- Criminal record certificate, legalised or apostilled where required.
Rights and obligations
- Workers have the same basic labour rights as Croatian workers, including minimum wage, working hours and paid leave.
- Employers must notify the authorities if employment ends before the permit expires.
- Language requirements for longer stays and renewals are being introduced, so learning basic Croatian is useful.
Avoiding scams
Because demand is high, there are many offers that promise Croatian jobs or permits in exchange for large fees. A genuine process always involves a real Croatian employer, an HZZ procedure where required, and a permit issued by MUP. Check the employer's registration independently, never pay for a "job" through informal agents, and be careful with offers that seem too easy.
Is Croatia a step into the EU?
Croatia is part of the EU and the Schengen area. A Croatian work permit allows you to live and work in Croatia; it does not give the right to work in other EU countries. Long-term residence after several years is possible under the general rules.
How ZANS Consultants can help
Once a Croatian employer has offered you a role, we help you check the process, prepare documents and apply for the visa. Learn more about our Croatia Work Visa service and our Croatia immigration services, or book a consultation.
General information only: Croatian work permit rules change. Check the current requirements with HZZ, MUP and the Croatian embassy before applying. The Croatian authorities make the final decision on every application.
