Croatia Extends EU Blue Card Validity and Expands Eligibility Criteria

Croatia is making significant changes to its EU Blue Card program, aiming to attract more highly qualified foreign workers. The Croatian authorities have revealed plans to double the validity of the EU Blue Card from two to four years. This change is part of a broader reform of the country’s Aliens Act, which is currently under review.

Longer Stay for Highly Qualified Workers

Once the changes are approved, foreign workers with an EU Blue Card can stay in Croatia for up to four years, a significant increase from the current two-year limit.

This extension will provide greater stability for skilled professionals seeking long-term employment in Croatia. This move is expected to address workforce shortages and offer better opportunities for foreign workers.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenković emphasized that this extension would help Croatia resolve its labor shortage and create a more welcoming environment for highly qualified professionals. Additionally, Davor Božinović, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, mentioned that the primary goal of this measure is to attract a skilled workforce to Croatia.

Expanded Eligibility for IT Professionals

In addition to extending the validity of the EU Blue Card, Croatia plans to broaden eligibility criteria, particularly for IT professionals. Under the new rules, individuals without formal educational qualifications in the IT sector but with relevant skills and work experience will be eligible for the EU Blue Card.

However, they will need to provide proof of their work experience in the field, which a dedicated committee will assess. This measure is part of Croatia’s strategy to attract talent in key industries, such as IT, where practical skills often outweigh formal qualifications.

Must Read: Guide to Work Visa Options in Europe: From EU Blue Card to National Visas

Rising Number of Work Permits Issued

Between January and September 2024, Croatia issued a total of 158,837 residence and work permits to foreign nationals. The largest number of permits went to workers from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nepal, and Serbia, with most employed in the construction, tourism, and trade sectors.

Requirements for Obtaining Croatia’s EU Blue Card

To qualify for Croatia’s EU Blue Card, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Valid Employment Contract: To be eligible for Croatia’s EU Blue Card, applicants must have a valid employment contract for at least one year. The job must be in a highly qualified profession that meets the country’s labor market needs.

2. Minimum Salary Requirement: Applicants must meet the minimum salary threshold, which is set at 1.5 times the average annual salary in Croatia. Currently, this equates to a minimum salary of €24,845.64 per year.

3. Educational and Professional Qualifications: For unregulated professions, applicants must provide proof of relevant educational qualifications. Regulated professions, however, must meet Croatia’s legal requirements, ensuring candidates have the appropriate credentials to practice.

4. Financial Resources: In addition to meeting salary requirements, applicants must show proof of sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay in Croatia. This ensures they won’t rely on public funds.

Also Read: EU Blue Card Rules: How European Countries Are Easing Entry for Skilled Workers

Processing Time and Fees

The processing time for Croatia’s EU Blue Card typically ranges between 30 and 60 days. Applicants must pay an initial application fee of €74.32, which covers the cost of processing of Blue Card.

What Is the EU Blue Card?

The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for highly qualified non-EU citizens, allowing them to live and work in EU member states. It is designed to attract skilled professionals to fill labor shortages in key sectors. The Blue Card offers several benefits, including the ability to move between EU countries under certain conditions and faster access to permanent residency.

Final Words

Several EU countries, including Germany, France, and Italy, offer EU Blue Cards, with some simplifying their rules to make the process more accessible for foreign workers. Croatia’s recent reforms align with this trend, ensuring the country remains competitive in attracting top talent from around the world.