Croatia Has Issued More Than 143,000 Work Permits to Foreign Nationals This Year
Key Takeaways
1. Croatia has issued over 143,000 work permits to foreign workers since the start of 2024.
2. The country continues to face labour shortages in various sectors nationwide.
3. Plans are underway to implement more favourable rules, including extending work permit validity.
New data indicates that Croatia has maintained a high number of work permits for foreign nationals this year. Since the beginning of 2024, the country has issued over 143,000 permits to foreign workers.
This move aims to address labour shortages across multiple sectors. However, while foreign workers are crucial to the Croatian economy, concerns have arisen as some workers choose to relocate to other EU countries after arriving in Croatia.
To retain foreign talent, particularly skilled professionals, authorities have been urged to create more attractive conditions. Vesna Vučemilović, a Croatian Parliament member, highlighted that Croatia lacks a clear immigration and integration strategy. She pointed out that while approximately 400,000 work permits were issued to foreigners over the past four years, official statistics show a significantly lower number currently in the country.
"Every worker must be trained for safe work. I would like the taxi driver to know the regulations and have a driver’s license. We must ensure safe working conditions for every worker."
— Vesna Vučemilović, Member of Croatian Parliament
Furthermore, there have been calls for stricter enforcement against Croatian employers who exploit foreign workers.
Croatia's Plan to Extend Work Permit Validity to 3 Years
To improve conditions for foreign workers, Croatia is planning to extend the validity of residence and work permits. Labour Minister Marin Piletić has announced intentions to increase permit validity from one to three years, making job transitions and employer changes smoother for foreign employees.
"The goal is to enable an easier transition within the same employer to different jobs, as well as an easier change of employers."
— Marin Piletić, Croatian Labour Minister
Additionally, the Minister mentioned that new standards for accommodating foreign workers are also part of the government's plan.
According to the 2023 EURES report, Croatia currently faces shortages in about 30 job categories. Foreign nationals whose professions fall within these in-demand occupations have a better chance of securing a visa.