Croatia is a country famous for its picturesque landscapes, culture and rich history and lies at the junction of central and southeast Europe. Croatia has a selection of delights, from breathtaking views to waterfalls and national parks. For expats seeking adventures and work opportunities, Croatia is a perfect destination. The country is also perfect for the ones looking for a relaxed lifestyle and peace of mind with a good education system. Each city in Croatia has its charm, and anybody can settle in the country without any hassle.

An Overview of Minimum Wages and Lifestyle In Croatia

• The expats living in Croatia live a relaxed and laid-back life with fewer difficulties. The nightlife and the beauty of the place make it a perfect place to relocate. The seaside resorts and the coastal towns make it a perfect location for summer and outdoor activities.
• The countryside in Croatia is perfect for the ones who like to enjoy outdoor activities. The national parks, the Velebit caves and other natural sites are some of the highlights of the place.
• The country is a paradise for food lovers. The local Mediterranean cuisine is a speciality of Croatia.
• The estimated place of living in Croatia is around $1,020-$3,890 based on the preference of lifestyle of an individual.
• The wages granted to employees in Croatia are increasing slowly, around €1,328 (Euro) per month.
• The law of the country decides the minimum wage limit in Croatia and is the same for all its cities, villages and towns.
• Based on research, the cities like Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik are the best choices for individuals looking for better salaries in the country.

Understanding Croatian Taxes: A Guide to Income Tax, VAT, and Other Obligations

The tax system in Croatia is the same for residents and non-residents. And the basic taxes are applied to the citizens in the country according to their income and annual turnover.

• Corporate Income Tax: In Croatia, corporate Income Tax or CIT is paid at a rate of 18%. For taxpayers with a revenue of less than €995,421, the Corporate Income Tax is only 10%.
• Capital Income Tax: For capital gains, rental income, interests and dividends, the rate of Capital Income Tax is 10%. A 20% interest rate is charged on incomes from stock option plans not exceeding the limit of €47,780 per year.
• Value Added Tax (VAT): The standard Value Added Tax (VAT) in Croatia is 25%. For accommodation, food, newspapers and other applied goods, the Value Added Tax is calculated at a rate of 13%. And for medical equipment and selected foodstuff, the Value Added Tax is estimated at a rate of 5%.
• Real Estate Transfer Tax: The Real Estate Tax in Croatia is paid at a rate of 3%. VAT is not calculated as a part of a purchase of an existing property or land from a company or individual.

Visas and Work Permits in Croatia

• Croatia is an ideal place for companies and workers. If an individual is planning to work in Croatia, they will require a work permit and a residential permit. Employees outside the European Union will require a visa to stay and work in the country.
• Most Croatian visas or permits are limited to a period of twelve months. However, some working professionals can also be eligible to apply for a work registration certification instead of a visa. These certificates are allotted to journalists, performers and members of religious orders.
• The application process for a visa in the Croatian system is based on the specific type of visa and the local embassy's requirements. For instance, some embassies do not require appointments, but some do.
• An applicant needs to visit the administrative police station close to them in their home country. The necessary documents should be submitted, and once the application gets approved, the individual must pay 870 kuna for issuing a permit.
• The EU blue card holders get permission to take their family, spouse, and children along with them to Croatia. But, individuals with regular work and residence visas need to apply for their family members to visit Croatia.

Exploring Employee Benefits in Croatia

• Croatia is known for providing basic mandatory health insurance for its employees. It is funded through security contributions by employers at a rate of 16.5% of the employee's gross salary.
• Most companies in Croatia provide public transportation allowance to their employees, which is made available to them for convenience. It is tax-free.
• Croatia also provides its employees with the benefit of supplementary health insurance. Some companies, like tech companies, also provide employees with private health insurance and dental vision coverage as an additional benefit.
• Cash bonuses and yearly raises are also offered to the employees in Croatia based on their performance in the company.
• Flexible working hours are provided by most companies, along with the option to work from home for at least two to five times a week.
• Life insurance is a common benefit offered to the employees of most companies in Croatia. It is usually reserved for high-ranking professionals. Life insurance facility consists of a lump sum amount that is paid to the employee's family in case of death, injury or other severe illness.

Unlocking the Doors of Employment in Croatia

• There has been a significant rise in the employment ratio of Croatia, with an average of 57.64 per cent in the year 2022.
• There are a variety of job opportunities available in Croatia. Software developers, user interface designers and system administrators are some of the most reputable and highest-paid jobs available in Croatia in abundance.
• Due to the speciality of Mediterranean and other cuisines in the country, there is a great need for experienced chefs, bakers and confectioners.
• Other job opportunities for labour workers like masons, construction fitters, civil engineering workers, hydro-insulation installers, roofers, electricians, crane operators and other workers are also in great demand in the country.
• Employment opportunities are also available for photographers, economists, administrative officers, environmental technicians, business secretaries and others.