Moving to Croatia – how to do it?

"Changing your country of residence is a decision that requires numerous formalities and logistical and mental preparation. For those wondering where to permanently leave Poland, Croatia is becoming a viable option – both due to its location and lifestyle. Attractive weather throughout most of the year, developing infrastructure, and the increasing availability of apartments and houses mean that more and more Poles are considering this destination. If you're planning a move, this article will help you organize your information and assess what you really need to prepare.

Moving to Croatia – where to start?

How to Live in Croatia? Legal and Documentation Issues

Legal stay in Croatia for European Union citizens does not require meeting complicated conditions, especially in the initial phase. For the first 90 days you can stay in the country without registration, but if you plan to settle there for longer, you will need to apply for temporary residenceThe basis for obtaining approval is the presentation of documents confirming the legality of your income source and health insurance. Regardless of whether you are employed, self-employed, working remotely, or retired, you need proof that you can support yourself locally.

Health insurance can be private or public – in Croatia there is both a public health service and a broad commercial services sector. Documentation regarding the place of residence and possession of a valid identity document are also important.Once your application is approved, you will receive a residence card, which allows you to access government offices, education, medical services, and sign contracts on terms similar to those of local citizens.

Moving to Croatia – formalities on site

After crossing the border and starting life in a new place, you'll need to take care of a few mandatory administrative steps. The first is registering your address with the local government office. This will require proof of ownership, such as a property deed or lease agreement. Then you need to apply for an OIB number, which is used for tax settlements, opening a Croatian bank account and many everyday formalities..

The next step is to begin the temporary residence registration process. Depending on your personal circumstances, various documents may be required, ranging from a certificate from your employer to bank statements. If you are planning to start a business, it is worth checking local regulations in advance and preparing the appropriate documentation.For those working remotely, documenting income and valid insurance will be important – in many cases, setting up an on-site business is not required.

Life in Croatia – what is worth knowing on a daily basis?

Everyday life in Croatia differs somewhat from that in Poland, though the differences aren't as drastic. Residents live to a rhythm that begins with morning coffee at a local café. Shops and offices are open during standard opening hours, there is no siesta period known from other southern European countries..

The cost of living varies by region. In the centers of large cities like Zadar, renting or purchasing apartments is higher, but the trade-off is access to schools, hospitals, and government offices. Rent for an apartment in an apartment building can range from 10 to 150 euros per month, with higher rates for properties with amenities like a swimming pool. Electricity and water are billed based on consumption, while garbage collection is charged flat-rate and per bin. Average monthly utility costs for a single family can be around 50 euros. Internet is another factor worth considering, typically costing 30-40 euros. Dining out also varies in price. Local restaurants offer a full meal for around 20 euros, but prices in popular resorts rise, especially during the summer months.

Moving abroad – practical and psychological aspects

Changing your country of residence means not only organizing transport or arranging documents, but also the need to adapt to a new lifestyle. Although many people communicate in English, especially in the tourism sector, everyday communication with offices or doctors may require at least basic knowledge of Croatian.

Getting accustomed to a new country, its mentality, and its rules of operation can take time. It's crucial to prepare not only logistically but also mentally before leaving – moving involves changing many habits and the environment we've previously operated in. Added to this is the need to adapt to the workplace or find employment, which for many people is the most challenging part of the entire process. Although Croatia offers many opportunities, it remains a competitive job market, and without knowledge of the language and local realities, not everything will be immediately available.

Health system and health insurance in Croatia

Healthcare in Croatia is available both through public health services and private insurance. Citizens of countries belonging to the European Economic Area can benefit from treatment under the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), although it is worth remembering that the scope of services may be limited.Those planning a longer stay should consider purchasing additional insurance that covers specialist treatment or hospitalization. Larger cities offer both public and private clinics, providing a wide range of options. The Croatian healthcare system is relatively transparent, and access to primary care physicians is relatively easy. However, it's worth being aware that some services require prior appointment.

Finding a job and staying in a new place

Croatia isn't a country where finding employment is easy without knowledge of the language and local regulations. Most job offers are in the tourism, catering, and construction sectors. During the summer, there's a demand for seasonal staff, especially in resorts and on islands. Those with qualifications in medical, engineering, or IT professions have a chance of finding stable employment, although the recruitment process may be longer than in Poland. An alternative to local employment may be remote work or running your own business.Many Poles also decide to buy real estate in Croatia intended for short-term rental – in such a case, however, it is necessary to obtain local permits and enter the business into the tourist register.

A look from the perspective of everyday life

Croatia is not only a holiday postcard, but also a place that can become home. The true picture of the country emerges outside the tourist season – when towns become quieter, services more accessible, and relationships with locals become more authentic. This is when you can best assess whether this is a place worth staying permanently.

Daily life reveals a rhythm that's difficult to discern during a short break. Instead of crowded beaches and bustling restaurants, local commerce, neighborly conversations, and customs previously unfamiliar to visitors emerge. Official matters, shopping, transportation, and apartment maintenance become part of the new reality. This is also the time when the need for Croatian language skills—even at a basic level—becomes particularly acute. Only during these quieter months can one truly assess what daily life in a new country is like and whether it truly meets personal needs, the pace of life, and expectations for the place where one lives.

Living in Croatia – moving requires thorough preparation

Moving to Croatia is a process that can be completed smoothly, provided you prepare properly. Both formal and practical elements must be taken into account – from obtaining an OIB number and legalizing your stay, to choosing a location and organizing daily expenses.Croatia offers many opportunities – closeness to nature, beautiful landscapes, access to the sea, and a mild climate. For those planning to settle here permanently, various forms of accommodation are available – from renting to purchasing an apartment or house. At the same time, it's worth remembering that living in a new country involves adapting to different realities and the need to learn new rules. If you approach this consciously and take care of the necessary aspects step by step, moving to Croatia will become an achievable goal.

FAQs:

1. How long does the procedure for obtaining residence permits in Croatia take?

The waiting time depends on the completeness of the documents and the workload of local offices, but the formalities typically take from a few days to a few weeks. Required documents include an OIB number, proof of financial resources, and a lease or ownership agreement.

2. Is it easy to find a job in Croatia without knowing the language?

Without basic Croatian, finding a permanent job can be difficult, especially during the off-season. Most job offers are in the tourism, catering, and service sectors – where communicating in English is often sufficient.

3. What is the best way to start looking for an apartment in Croatia?

It's safest to use local agencies. Croatia offers a wide selection of offers, from small apartments to houses with sea views. However, you should always carefully check the legal status of the property before signing a contract.