Last Updated on February 23, 2023
UK nationals who have been legally living in Croatia before December 31, 2020 when the UK withdraws from the EU may continue to live, study, and work in Croatia through rights established through the Withdrawal Agreement. UK nationals who are residents of Croatia by the end of the Brexit transition will be covered by the Withdrawal Agreement, and their rights will be protected if they remain a resident. UK nationals should make sure they are registered as residents.
Entry and Residency Requirements
Travel is permitted in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period without a visa to visit family or friends; attend business meetings, sports events, or cultural events; for tourism, and for short-term study or training.
The Croatian government has provided new guidance for UK nationals living and working in the country after December 31, 2020.
All UK nationals must file an application for residency by June 30, 2021. Applications may be filed electronically for individuals in Zagreb, but UK nationals living in other locations must file their applications in person. The application process varies by administration and police station.
UK nationals who have been legal residents of Croatia for five years as of December 31, 2020 may apply for a permanent residence certificate. Those who have been in the country for less than five years will receive a temporary stay permit instead.
Similar provisions apply for family members of UK nationals. Non-EU family members of UK nationals who already had a residence permit before the Brexit transition can apply for a national residence permit through June 30, 2021. Non-EU family members who are moving to the country after January 1, 2021 can apply for a temporary stay permit within six months of arrival.
Working in Croatia
UK nationals who are residents of Croatia before December 31, 2020 will retain their right to work if they remain residents.
UK nationals may need a UK police certificate to work in Croatia.
Individuals who live in Croatia and commute to work in another EU/EFTA country may need a permit proving that they are a frontier worker starting in January 2021. The Home Office will provide further details when guidance is available.
Passports
UK nationals can continue to travel to Croatia and other Schengen countries through December 31, 2020 with their current UK passports, provided the passport is valid for the duration of their stay. UK nationals can apply for a new passport from Croatia.
A valid passport is required to enter the country through December 2020. Starting on January 1, 2021, passports must have at least a six-month validity, except for individuals transiting Croatia or who fall within the scope of the Withdrawal Agreement. Individuals must renew their passport prior to traveling if they have less than six months remaining on their passport. Additional months from passports that are more than 10 years old cannot be added to the validity period.
