Bad things about Croatia-country Here we tell you the Cons of living in Croatia-country (Croatia): Not much to do; Very humid now; Not many travellers/backpackers right now; Very difficult to make friends; Hospitals are pretty bad; Hostile towards LGBT; Many people smoke tobacco Good things about Croatia-country Living in Croatia-country Also In Croatia, youll get to experience both the positives and negatives. Croatians are very proud of their food, and so they should be. Safety. And you will need it. 4 Quick And Simple Things You Need To Know If Youre Moving To Croatia, Extra Tips For Moving To Croatia Real Lessons Learned From 9 Years Of Living In Croatia, My Expat Struggles With Moving To Croatia, Five Years Living In Croatia As A Foreigner And Loads More Info On Living In Croatia. Dont fight it; go with it. Information for British citizens moving to or living in Croatia , Croatia travel information for U.S. citizens . The emergency room and other clinics for specialty doctors in Split hospital remind me of the public hospitals in Hong Kong: I once spent half a day in the waiting room for an ophthalmologist to check my eye for less than 10 minutes. And, when you come, please bring food I miss so many Aussie treats. If you dont speak Croatian, life will be tough. As a new ex-pat in Croatia, I guess that you will love: These are relative to where youre from and your current expectations. Let me not kid you, and I am not fluent. The accompanying Krapina Neanderthal Museum is a must-see if you make it to Zagreb. What are requirements for obtaining a long term visa? Good luck. There were a couple of problems. The visa can be issued for a stay of up to 1-year, but its actual duration is discretionary. Like, der, rewind the clock and let me correct that colossal fuck up, please. Where do most expats live? I am mentally preparing to take the citizenship test. For example, developers earn $2000/mo, which is comfortable to live on here. A lot of which is still under construction in 2022. The legislation is changing all the time, so be sure to ask at the Croatian embassy where you live more than once. I have been back to Australia twice in 5-years and have zero desire to go again anytime soon. In January 2021, Croatia introduced a Digital Nomad Residency Visa, but it is not for everyone. Parents in Croatia are no exception, I guess. Sigh. He smiled and seemed proud of me. I arrived at an age when it was difficult to find a new job or get a new friend even back home. The daily game of charades I once played now is more like once a month. I live in Brazil and i think cost of living is not so high. Nice article.. However When I come to live to the UK 11 years ago I also expirienced huge Cultural Shock So many years after and I still can not comprehend some behaviour and culture But definitelly I am delighted to live in country with NO Birocracy at all.. Well that is really really great! Croatian is a damn complex language to learn and even harder to speak correctly. Foreign pensions are taxable income, but Croatia has tax treaties with numerous countries, including the US and UK, to buffer against some double taxation. General inquiry, but seriously considering relocating to either Costa Rica or Croatia. It is also the case that people can be such bullshitters. Even though they were in Croatia for half the year, they were not seeking residency etc. If youve decided you want to live in Croatia, here are 18 things you should know before you move. Along with the application fee [currently $100/90], the applicant must provide: Croatias Digital Nomad Visa does offer some features that other digital nomad visas dont. The doctors concluded, after some tests and scans, that bed rest with a tight wrap or girdle around my hips was all I needed. The police officer can require proof of funds, so be prepared to provide proof of your retirement income. But now, I am not sure. Ok, so theres a little more to it than that. 2. Most stop working between 2:00-3:00 pm. Croatia did not meet their unrealistic expectations. That racist comment summarizes mindset of a typical radical leftist Croatian. They found them rude and charmless. You can read about how I did it in my post about importing a car into Croatia. Comment with your question below and we will do our best to help. Groceries are reasonably affordable, and most larger stores have a basic variety of international products, but there are several international food stores as well. The downside is the other 115 days are wet, cold, and windy. But even then, maybe the doctor just will refuse, and youll find yourself explaining your symptoms with hand gestures. Croatia is a small country, but its got a vibrant history. Croatia added a provision to provide for childrens education to attract families. I also wrote that when you make the ballsy-ass move and leave everyone you know, everything that is comfortable, known, and easy behind you and choose to throw caution to the wind and move abroad, there is stuff about the move that you simply cant know until youre living the dream.. The diversity in this country can appeal to people with all sorts of preferences. Did schooling help me at any stage of my life? Saying no would be plain rude. 3. For me, paying has always been cheaper than using the insurance. Insane taxes. If you plan to move to Croatia with school-age children, then youll be happy to know that public education in Croatia is (almost) free. The journey actually started off really sweet as the taxi driver decided to give us a free ride to the hospital. Admittedly that would have meant that I could have told the story of our failed Croatian adventure in Croatian but for what? While at government offices (and doctors), be warned. Racism in Croatia. Anything less than a year (or two or three), they are too fresh to know. Croatias banks are predominantly foreign-owned international banks and are considered one of the countrys strongest and most stable industries. Summary of cost of living in Croatia: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 2,384.6$ (2,216.6) without rent. So, you may ask, what in Gods name am I still doing living in Croatia? I think I chose the correct linguistic path. You should also be aware that it isnt always warm enough to enjoy the beach in Croatia. I could feel that the language barrier on top of their workload stressed them further. If you plan to work locally, youll have to live like a local. Croatia has invested significantly to lure global digital nomads to the country. After five years of traveling this magnificent country, I can tell you there is no shortage of things to do and new places to discover. Now, on 1 January 2023, Croatia joined the Schengen Zone so there were updates to their visa regime some of which are still in progress. The regional influences are embraced instead of being resisted, with little dabs of Croatian class added to great effect. It will be worth it; my Croatian friends are worth their weight in gold I treasure them dearly. You will have to ask a lot of people for references and help along the way. Explore, Experience, Engage. But now I realize, here in Croatia, that old saying rings true, it is not what you know but who. If you planto move to Croatia, do not take advice from anyone who does not live in Croatia 24/7 365 days a year for at least a full year. As with everything in life, there are good things and there are bad things that come with Croatian citizenship. The treatment of me was less than stellar (think plenty of tears and confusion), but I never once doubted the care he received. But my gynecologist was trying his best to take care of me. Youd be hard-pressed to find any Croatian family where there is not an emphasis on family, friends, and with that food. warm enough to enjoy the beach in Croatia, Main course at a high-end restaurant 15 , Cities smaller than 30,000 residents up to 12%, Cities larger than 30,000 residents up to 15%. I would have gone back to Australia, broke and with my tail between my legs. But, usually, when I do not, I take myself to a cafe and shake it off, and try again in a few days. And, I plan many more years here. No thanks. As I said, everyone's situation is different. The secondary education system is vastly different from what I am used to in Australia, and I have yet to master its complexities, so be sure to ask people with kids the same age as yours how it all works. Would I like to wait for less time? My understanding of the Croatian health system expanded further when my prenatal visits began. I remember once I had no power for four days when I was alone with a baby, and I had people offering to have us stay with them. For now Zagreb, Croatia is home. Youll be able to communicate with the majority of people that are younger than 40. With several international airports, ferry ports, and train and bus stations, Croatia is well-connected to the world. What You Need To Know Before You Move To Croatia. Jesus H. Christ. For the past year and a half of living in Croatia, we found the supportive information found in the Expat in Croatia newsletter to be invaluable. Croatia has numerous shopping options throughout the country, ranging from small boutique stores to large modern malls for budget and high-end brands. While we are on the topic of the MUP, be sure to take someone with you who speaks Croatian fluently. This visa approval is completely separate from the visa you will need once in Croatia. So I rarely found myself frustrated in those early days. I would say you REALLY need to be prepared. But now, I am just sad that I have lost so many of them. The traditions of Central Europe and the Mediterranean are very much alive in the kitchens of Croatia. So, yeah, what the fuck was I thinking about moving to Croatia? When I first moved into my apartment, I wanted to fix a few things. That is immensely helpful to parents who stay with their children 24 hours a day. God knows who I am. Keep your eyes open and be honest with yourself. Croatia is so beautiful, so mixed cultures, zagreb looks like little Vienna, and whole mediterranean coast is sc nice and clean. The tourist season in Croatia is from May through October and peaks in July and August. So, you need to determine if your current health insurance will do that, and if so, the company will provide you with a visa letter to submit with the visa application. Sure the place is old and run down, and I had to sleep overnight sitting up on a desk chair, but his medical treatment is what I would have received in Australia. Make plans to freelance or set up your own business if you need money immediately. Is it safe to drive in Croatia? He spent several weeks in Zagreb in the NICU at the countrys best hospital all expenses paid. Offering drinks, pre-meal snacks, a meal, a second helping, even a third helping, cake, coffee, and then more drink to your guests is a must. One thing I like the most about schooling in Croatia is that children do have spare time. Learn how your comment data is processed. Its often cheaper for those living in Croatia to take a bus to Rimini, Italy, than to go to the beach in their own country. Having a child in Croatia also gets me into the most controversial and stressful sphere in life: parenting. The legislation is constantly changing, so be sure to ask at your Croatian embassy where you live more than once. A gorgeous coastline, warm Mediterranean climate, and affordable living costs. A single person estimated monthly costs are 694.0$ (645.1) without rent. Croatias spoken English level surprised me the most when I got here. Croatias visa scheme is limited and overly restrictive. Once you pay bills, rent an apartment, and buy food not much is left over. Dubrovnik is expensive compared to the rest of Croatia, but reasonable compared to the rest of Europe. Croatia is also a member of EU and NATO. This place is filled with nepotism. Answer (1 of 3): If I simply put it , good things about Croatia include: * Polite people, willing to help * Closeness of people, strong family ties * Natural beauties, national parks, the Adriatic sea * 1000 islands * Proteced forests and wildlife * Historical monuments * Sports success . Oh wait, it is only free so long as you are from the EU. Continue with Recommended Cookies. I wrote a post back in 2015 about my experience and remembered writing that: Life abroad is fun. Croatia is a small country of 4 million, so there isnt much international business happening here. All others must apply at their local Croatian embassy or consulate. Further south, the walled city of Dubrovnik. In this video, we will tell you all you need to know to have the best time in Croatia! According to the World Health Organization, Croatia has 34 doctors for every 10,000 people. It genuinely fails to address the countrys need for expats, as many Croatians emigrate to other EU states. Or else have savings to get you by until you can find work. With that said, most EU expats live in the Adriatic region to take advantage of the coastal lifestyle at a more affordable cost and usually as a retirement option. This factor is the most difficult to accept. In 2020, Croatia joined the EUs Exchange Rate Mechanism, hoping to adopt the Euro as soon as 2023. Primary school education is, of course, compulsory that begins at seven years of age. If you do not work, budget around 400 Kune a month per person to pay for this. The positive and negative comments from both local and foreign people living and/or leaving Croatia can be antagonistic. Now, that is no longer possible. Theres also a lot of local competition for higher-end knowledge jobs that do exist. Yay, go me. Even in the foreigners line, getting an English-speaking staff member is not always possible and if its like the one in Zadar, the service will also be provided without a hint of trying to speak English. This was because, once you file the paperwork for your visa, you can stay in Croatia until they reach a decision. We provide unbiased advice, essential information, and valuable resources to assist you in planning your move and settling in smoothly. Summers are hot and typically dry along the Adriatic. Labour, or I should say post-labour, was a bit bumpy and gave me a full-fledged experience of hospitalization in Croatia. First-Year Living In Croatia: I Came Up Empty. If you want to show off, you can use the phrase ne mogu vie, hvala, which means you cant take (eat) anymore. Eating out, traveling, or paying for services like a babysitter are affordable, so long as you earn more than minimum wage (or have those dollars from aboard on hand), otherwise youll be hard-pressed to get someone to look after your child. What the heck was I thinking of moving to Croatia without taking classes and learning this horrifically hard to learn the language? The locals work to live rather than follow the American mantra of living to work. One of the faucets was blocked by calcium, and I bought mosquito screens for the window I needed to install. The tricky part is the third serving; you may want one, but chances are youve already indulged in two plates of Kiseli Kapus and yummyribe sa ara, so when that time comes, youll need to be polite and say no thanks. You can find a more comprehensive list of items with the reduced tax rate on Invest Croatias website. 10. If your request is out of the ordinary, or you need extra help, or the staff member is having a bad day, youll probably end up leaving in a bad mood and with nothing accomplished. Is Croatia safe to travel for families? I never confirm nor deny racism rumors in Croatia on my blog, social media, or any form. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. So if youre interested, definitely check that out. I love it in equal parts as much as I hate it. While citizens by birth - regular people living in Croatia - can't hold two nationalities, people who applied for citizenship by descent are exempt. Alternatively, buying a residence and getting a temporary residence permit for up to 6 months is possible. It took me about a month of living in a hotel to find something. Keep in mind that the unemployment rate is over 8% as well. Thank you for reading our article about Croatia and contributing to our knowledge base. Is the Croatian way a good thing? Just be prepared for the LONG wait and all the issues that WILL arise including the possibility that you may need to leave every 90 days and remain outside of the Schengen Zone for 90 days before you can re-enter. I realize that you need a community around you no matter where you live and even more so as an expat without any family of your own. You can read our privacy policy here. As I said, the best course of action at this time is to contact the embassy or consulate nearest to you. He spent several weeks in Zagreb in the NICU at the countrys best hospital all expenses paid. What are Croatians like? I still have them, but they are small periods, not everlasting. When I focus on the task(s) at hand without thinking too much about anything else, all the applications and procedures are hardly enjoyable but bearable. I have spoken to many people who returned after a failed attempt. Most of the city is covered by the tram network, and there are also buses. Daily frustration usually comes from these areas. I have been second-guessing myself for writing about the good and bad of living in Split. Winters are very cold but much milder in the coastal regions. I do not have any firsthand experience with it. As far as the EU expat population goes, the only factor that has changed is Croatias move toward the euro. Three years ago, I missed my friends more than I ever could imagine ack, that was damn painful. Monthly unlimited mobile data averages $28/25 a month. In 2019, Eurostat ranked Croatia as the safest European country. Even my residency application was pretty straightforward. If you want to read a post covering both sides of the topic, I suggest you start here. Nope. But modern technologies kept old circles within easy reach. Access the Internet without paying excessive roaming fees. Croatias residency and citizenship-by-investment programs. Literally not one question. Before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, I called Bucha home for three and a half years. Expatriant is the definitive source for everything related to being an expat abroad. Most major cities and many secondary urban centers offer some professional coworking space options. August 16, 2002, an auspicious date for this correspondent in Croatia. From the Slavic side, no one will call you back, and every person you speak to will give you a different answer. Hello Traeci How do people afford to live in this country? Make your own plans to freelance or set up your own business if you need money straight away. Whats It Like Living In The Azores As A Expat? Fake people are always trying to get you to blog about them for free. Its 3600 miles/5800 KM of Adriatic coastline and over 1000 islands and islets provide dozens of amazing Blue Flag beaches, water sports, and superyacht marinas that will exceed the approval of any aquaphile. Take a small serving the first go, thus allowing plenty of wiggle room in your jeans for that second helping you will be required to consume. Croatia is all my sons know. It may be the first time Croatia has had to compete with the tropical wanderlust of Costa Rica! Why dont you ask some people of colour about their experiences in Croatia? Even though the initial phases of living in Croatia are a bit more challenging than in most other places, the end result makes it all worth wild. The Krapina Neanderthal site is the most significant archeological find of human remains from the late Pleistocene era. I restarted my Croatian lessons and can genuinely say that life here would have been even more challenging had I not taken them. Now the only opportunities for non-EU expats to wait out the 90-day return window andthen return to Croatia without leaving the EU areRomania, Bulgaria, Ireland, and Cyprus as they are the4 remaining EU countries that arenot in the Schengen zone yet. But the thing is, this is how everything is and why I highly recommend applying for residency with a lawyer. Before Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, I called Bucha home for three and a half years. Its always who you know. Life abroad is what you make of it. The U.S. State Department has . And wait, and wait. For those of you into ancient history, the city of Pula has an excellently preserved roman amphitheater. The bureaucracy. Some products have reduced rates, though. I will hear people tell me to go back home, and that nothing is stopping me.. Croatia also has 10 Michelin-starred restaurants in Zagreb and the Adriatic coastline. Getting the simplest things done is nothing short of a project. That's a really big pro because, in many other European countries, you . Far from it, in fact. But like everything else related to parenting, the answer really depends on whom you ask. In my experience, it always feels the worst in the preparatory stage. Croatia is also a member of EU and NATO. The salaries in Croatia are very low when compared to most developed nations. What other things there puzzle you? Hello! Serbian, Czech, Bosnian, Hungarian, Slovak, and Romani are also common. It is also safe for solo female tourists. Living in certain bubbles can avoid some of them while certain life stages can bypass the others. Not even on fakebook. While most people, even middle-aged Croatians speak some English, there will be times when youll run into a problem you cannot solve with English. However, the type of visa, location, passive income, pensions, etc. The health care in Croatia is very good actually. Croatian is a damn complex language to learn, After five years of traveling this magnificent country, Croatian Australians NZ-ers And Friends In Split, So much sunshine and generally great weather, even in. In the 1960s, the area was used as a filming location for popular German . Youd be hard-pressed to find any Croatian family where there is not an emphasis on family, friends, and with that food. Croatian is a damn complex language to learn, Croatia is an excellent place to come to live, After five years of traveling this magnificent country, your house at 7 am, and by 10 am (if you are extra lucky), and you are into your second cup of coffee, Croatian Australians NZ-ers And Friends In Split. Ive spent almost five years living abroad, navigating bureaucracy as an expat. Knowing how medical professionals work in public hospitals in Hong Kong, I tried not to bother them unless it was absolutely necessary during my 2-week stay there. For example, recently, I tried calling my gas provider because they sent me a blank bill, and their automated phone system didnt have an English option. Again, cost depends on the time of year. Hint, hint. This country can be tricky to live and survive in it is not for everyone. So I thought I could buy a car and travel around while I waited for my permit. You can find blood tests, MRIs, doctors, dentists, etc., all over the country that you can see fast, provided you have money in that pocketbook. Sure the place is old and run down, and I had to sleep overnight sitting up on a desk chair, but his medical treatment is what I would have received in Australia. Instead, I encourage the family and friends I do speak to, to come instead to visit us here we have a big house and live opposite the beach. Please do your homework, find out when they are, and avoid them like the plague. So my advice (since i personally know many English speaking expats living in Croatia and you all carry similar traits :) ), dont be a cocky westerner although i have a feeling you are past that stage. Dont quit your job, pack a shipping container, or anything until you really know what you are in for. I try never to speak of them, as they are the days when if spoken about, it is all people will focus on. Whether you live in Zagreb or want to go from city to city, the transportation infrastructure in Croatia is decent. We have been living in Croatia for 4 months already and these are all . (The facts.) The playgrounds are plentiful and safe. Itll depend on the type of healthcare you need, though. If you do not work, budget around 400 Kune a month per person to pay for this. That said, my son was treated with immediate and astounding care when he was born with severe complications. Its not as easy as you think. Trust me; youll need it. I even get surprised when I visit Croatia and things are more like in the UK than I remember because it us unexpected. Things move incredibly slowly here, and its not only how slow things move that makes it annoying. PROS: In February of 2020 Croatia was ranked at a Level One" in safe category by the U.S. State Department which makes it on of the safest countries in the world. Word of warning: be sure not to overuse this phrase, as your hosts may come not to believe you. ?, indefinitely. Ours was over 550 euro each. Especially great for expat families or simply those with a budget, Croatia is one choice that provides a diversity of options. In Croatia, I learnt that no family is perfect. Additionally, youll get two answers when you ask two different people the same question. Access the Internet without paying excessive roaming fees. I must also say that Croatia has come quite a long way in the last 10 years: more online services, better English websites, all kinds of English-speaking service providers, and numerous expatriate-local communities all over the country. The only difference is it is free. I actually do not have better insights or more original ideas than are mentioned elsewhere. Reflections of a Foreigner After 15 Years Living in Croatia. Kindergarten (suitable for ages 1-6) is not mandatory, and while this is subsidized, it is not free and will set you back at least 600 kune a month, up to several thousand if you plan to go to the British kindergarten in Zagreb. We travel & write about food, accommodation & the best things to do in the Balkans. Ask anyone wherever you happen to be, and theyll do their best to help. I am so thankful for my life here. If you have a job, your employer will pay your essential healthcare contributions, and you can also pay a small amount extra to avoid paying fees when going to the hospital or each time you go to the doctor or dentist. The ways I treat schools as a parent are very similar to how I handle life in Croatia: take full advantage of the good bits to help my son develop and get by with the bad parts to satisfy the institution. And more than that, I feel I have given too much, spent too long pushing forward to give up not yet anyway. Especially when your kids start school, its gonna be a piece of cake. I do not have any firsthand experience with it. Learn how your comment data is processed. Youll need to wait six months after it expires to apply again. While each of these regions tends to have its unique dishes, we can simplify Croatias cuisine into two groups inland as a mix of Slavic & Ottoman cuisines, and on the coast, a combination of Greek & Italian cuisines. Ive actually written a full post on English in Croatia. The world peace index ranked Croatia as the 15th most peaceful country in 2021. Hope that helps Traeci Just make sure you ask the server before bringing them inside. You will have to do many rubbish admin types jobs, just like you would any place in the world. These breaks are known as pauza. Its when the whole place goes on a lunch break, and you have to wait 30 mins till they come back. It had been over 40 hours since we departed Sydney and arrived in our sleepy little village in rural Croatia.. While we are on the topic of the MUP, be sure to take someone with you who speaks Croatian fluently. I deprioritized many things to focus on building this blog, and then having a new baby, and then starting a business and oops, as a result, my language skills are way short of what they should be after five years. But he still annoys me on some good days and pisses me off on some really bad ones. Simply stated, Croatias taxes are complicated and require professional assistance. On average, a typical one-bedroom apartment in the city has a monthly rent of around $575/500. The new digital nomad visa for Croatia came into effect on January 1, 2021, an exciting opportunity for non-EU/EEA remote workers to be able to come and work in Croatia for 12 months. We aim to help you feel more confident and relaxed about your move abroad. Total recovery indeed came after 3 more weeks of the remedy at home. A Saturday night out for dinner and drinks will average around $20-50/18-45. Not only do you have Roman forums, like this one in Zadar and places like Diocletian's Palace in Split, but you'll see ancient & historical ruins and many small villages in every town. I have spoken to many people who returned after a failed attempt. You can obtain primary healthcare all over the county no matter where you live. Even Napoleon got a piece of Croatia. So, I go back in a few months to see what rules apply and/or have changed. When I learn that Hong Kong people moving to the UK have to pay 55 Euro per adult per month for the National Health Service, I have a new appreciation for the Croatian public health system despite the imperfections. We blog about the best travel destinations in the Balkans. They told me the most important thing I needed to know at that time: I could stay as long as the application was being processed. But really, where are all of the young families, singles, hard-working movers, and shakers? Most options are temporary and involve a short-term cycle of leaving Croatia, waiting out a return window, and then re-entering. If you have a job, your employer will pay your essential healthcare contributions, and you can also pay a small amount extra to avoid paying fees when going to the hospital or each time you go to the doctor or dentist. Do your homework, find out when they are, and avoid them like the plague. My neighbour told me afterward that the facilities were much better than the old one where she had given birth. Boom! Some reflections on the mostly full-time Croatian living experience since . You can initiate the visa process in the US but just so you know, before Croatia joined the Schengen Zone, many people would travel to Croatia, enter on the 90-day tourist visa, and then began the process at the police station. However, some dishes that I recommend trying during your time in Croatia are: Living in Spain: 17 Things to Know before You Move. I spent all my savings in building a (wonky-as-fuck) house. Sometimes it does not sound like I do, but sincerely, I cherish Croatia. We were busy mourning rather than crying over the hospital bill which was not big anyway. Despite the fact my windows and walls leak in the rain, and that the basement has been flooded three times, and more than one neighbor wont speak to us, I cant leave my home. Cost of living in Croatia is, on average, 36.7% lower than in United States. Hospitality towards your guests is critical. I always now assume that I cant complete a task, and then if I do, its a win. Five years ago, I was told that once I made it to the 5-year mark, I could return to MUP and be given my Croatian citizenship. Save on money exchange & credit card fees. Yeah, yeah, Croatia is an excellent place to come to live out the end of your days. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. It is operated by Austrias railway. So, back I go in a few months to see what rules apply and have changed now. Oh, and also, Dalmatians originated from Dalmatia. Also, the visa is not renewable, and digital nomads are required to wait for six months before re-applying. Accessibility is a problem in Croatia, including in apartment buildings. Come on, people, move to Croatia. It assumes that the employer is paying social taxes. Your host may also use guilt to force you into a second helping. How is private healthcare and is it expensive for expats? I know that everyone says that Croatians speak English and they do, but not in all cases. It can be described as some of the best Europe has to offer, as well as a genuine European experience on a budget. Most people dont consider living in Croatia, and most dont even think of it when they think of Europe. Life abroad is scary. all factor into any tax liability. Further south is Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik. Since very first interaction with local people up until today - 5 months of me living here, roughly 95% of interactions with Croatians was uncalled for (I am generally a kind person that dislikes conflicts) malice, rudeness and generally being an total asshole towards me. Cons of Living in Croatia Paperwork. Among the 191 member countries of the World Health Organization, Croatia ranked 43, with the US at 37 and the UK at 18. And several have already taken advantage of the opportunity. The days spent with family and friends eating and laughing, seeing my kids happy, playing, and being loved by others, and traveling and exploring. Bureaucracy gone mad actually, sometimes, not even gone mad often not even moving at all. I have never found a credible company willing to work with foreigners who do not have permanent residency in Croatia. There are these breaks known as pauza. Its when the whole place goes on a lunch break, and you just have to wait the 30 mins till they come back. Just dont take anything that one person says as gospel. We live in Croatia, and are always exploring the region. I can't speak for all cities of Croatia, I've been to some touristy places which in that case makes sense they are expensive but I've also been to some villages that also had really expensive prices for groceries and restaurants. The law states that the digital nomad must be a non-EU citizen who is: The digital nomad cannot be an employee of or earn money from a company in Croatia. Everybody wins. The natural environment and safe space kids can enjoy in Croatia are second to none. Most of them are also left natural and undeveloped. As a rough guide, we paid between 200 and 300 Kune per appointment for private doctors to see my newborn son avoid waiting months for the hospital to get him into an appointment. There are officially 10 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Croatia, with an additional 15 tentative sites. Not even mine. But yeah, no one here likes that attitude. Keep your eyes open, and be honest with yourself. In my first year of living in Croatia as a foreigner, I had short bouts of depression and anxiety. And language is least of your problems, there are plenty beginner language courses and language learning groups and you can always pick up words and phrases on the go. I restarted my Croatian lessons and can genuinely say that life here would have been even more challenging had I not taken them. We pulled up into the driveway, tired and hungry. I hardly complained about MUP as my husband and I just went with their flow. I would say you REALLY need to be prepared. Explore, Experience, Engage. Youll be able to communicate with the majority of people that are younger than 40. I can not imagine moving back to Australia. The tricky part is the third serving; you may want one, but chances are youve already indulged in two plates of Kiseli Kapus and yummyribe sa ara, so when that time comes, youll need to be polite and say no thanks. The tax regulations arent very straightforward. An FBI background check they will not accept a state-level check Kids are free to roam about. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. I havent made it to the coast, so you can expect a more comprehensive list of what you should eat later. My interactions with Croatia have changed in the last 10 years and so have my experiences of living here. Living in certain bubbles can avoid some of them while certain life stages can bypass the others. Check out PWCs personal income tax calculation example if youd like to see more. Are you thinking of moving to another country or buying a home overseas? It will be worth it; my Croatian friends are worth their weight in gold I treasure them dearly. But here, things are beyond disorganized. You will have to ask many people for references and help along the way. Eating out, traveling, or paying for services like a babysitter are affordable, so long as you earn more than minimum wage (or have those dollars from aboard on hand), otherwise youll be hard-pressed to get someone to look after your child. Generally, the answer is a resounding yes. All I can say is that life in Split suits me at this stage of my life: fewer people, slower pace, better climate, nicer environment, more freedom, less fear These are what I call the background factors. And I do not plan to start now. Still, alas they wont help me in any way. The day I went to buy the car, we went to the CVH, and they told me I couldnt register it without a residence card. Whether you need to follow up on your residence permit or fix the sink in your house, it will take forever. It is also the case that people can be such bullshitters. Public transport is very good, and tickets provide unlimited rides within a specific time frame, ranging from 30 minutes for $.60/.50 up to monthly passes for $58/53. Miss you. Its located a short ferry ride away from Split on the island of Bra and regularly makes it into the top beaches of the world rankings. These include American, British, French, and German schools offering kindergarten to 12th grade. If ancient ruins don't interest you, you may not want to visit Croatia. Public transportation and new constructions are fairly accessible, and several beaches are fully accessible as well. That said, if you are planning to move to Croatia, do not take advice from anyone who does not live in Croatia 24/7 365 days a year for at least a full year. Introduction. If they do not live here, 365 days a year, they have a skewed view of real life. I am mentally preparing to take the citizenship test. My dark days are rare. As an expat, the most relevant taxes for you are the value-added, income, surtax, and real estate transfer tax. Morning came, and he was nowhere to be found. There are some expats in the capital city, Zagreb, which is a nice city, but it is definitely not for anyone trying to escape winter. I never confirm or deny racism rumors in Croatia on my blog, social media, or any other form. It was also challenging to find an apartment in Zagreb. I even ask for help and at one very low point, last year accepted more help from several friends that I could never have imagined I could. Everybody wins. Failure to heed this warning will see you having to hear repeatedly how you are too skinny; you must be hungry, and so on. Read about us here. I mean, seven noun declensions. First off, if you plan to live in Croatia without a car, Zagreb will be the best option. you need to be more vigilant and aggressive with anyone and anything you face, whether its an institution, person or roadblock you face, thats simply how we function. While youre in Pula, dont forget to admire the Venetian architecture found throughout the Istrian peninsula. Then theres Diocletians Palace in Split. No matter where you are, there will be a caffe bar filled with workers having their mid-morning, lunch, or afternoon coffee chatting with their friends and colleagues. Currently, cryptocurrencies are virtually unregulated. Anything less than a year (or two or three), they are too fresh to really know. I found one that spoke English a few minutes later and gave him a call. If you want to live near the sea, plan to be in Croatia between April and May. For now Zagreb, Croatia is home. One interesting thing is that Croatia doesnt have property tax unless its a second home or an investment property. While this can differ from city to city, in general, plan for headaches and for the system to operate very slowly. Btw I was hoping to rent a place over winter somewhere quiet is this possible or do people tend to close up over winter? If not, be prepared to fork out thousands of Kune for the mandatory health insurance back payment fees. The salaries in Croatia are meager when compared to most developed nations. Hello! Its 3% and is always paid by the buyer. I have heard of people wait 6-12 months for an MRI. We never networked at the start; it seemed so fake. I recommend getting tickets on the HZPP rail website since the ticket office is sometimes closed. When he did show up, he fixed the faucet and said hed be back in two weeks to build the mosquito nets. Obviously, there is crime, but the overwhelming majority is petty, and violent crime is virtually unheard of. Great, then you qualify for a temporary stay as a digital nomad. Whether renting a car or owning one, getting around by car is very easy in Croatia. Additionally, as of January 2021, Croatia made the available visas even more restrictive by now requiring a criminal background check. And, when you are bored with Croatia, we have so many neighboring countries just waiting for your euros. Easily Croatias biggest negative. If you continue north from Pula on the Istrian peninsula, theres Rovinj and Pore. A beautiful country with a high standard of living. My favorite part of these cultures is that the locals are incredibly warm and welcoming. Im in love with this country :*, Your email address will not be published. It was ranked 28th in the 2019 Global Peace Index, 100 places ahead of the United States (128). A meal at a decent restaurant is going to be about 12 euros. In regards to obtaining Croatian visas it is very difficult for everyone to get them, but more so for non-EU citizens. Depending upon usage, utilities average $100/90 a month. Did I complain about it? If your travel is 10 hours or more, I recommend booking an overnight train through Nightjet. They dont always know the current legislation, and what I have heard from many people over the years many embassies just do not want to help new people move back to the motherland. Both locals and tourists, females included, repeatedly state they neither experience nor have issues or concerns walking alone, even at night. I have listened to my friends, living in different cities, talking about the good and bad of public schools, private schools, international schools you name it. I hope that helps a bit. Living in Croatia has the feel of living in Italy with a landscape reminiscent of Greece along with the affordability typical of the Balkans. Always conduct transactions in Croatian Kuna. Bank-owned ATMs offer a significantly lower fee than other ATMs. After Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in Feb 2022, I needed to find another nearby country I could quickly move to and stay. The first 24 months came and went very fast; in all honesty, I was so busy building this blog. I mean, seven noun declensions. Visitors from Germany, or German expats living in Croatia, might wonder why some of the scenery in Plitvice looks surprisingly familiar. After all, I am still living here. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Something is stopping me. The cost for a ticket on either is $0.80 and is good for 30 minutes. Sigh. What the fuck have I done moving to and living in this Croatian insanity for the past five fucking years? You can actually drink tap water in Croatia. Thrilled with my new friends but uber sad deep inside, those relationships with my girlfriends that I once thought would last a lifetime now no longer exist. That said, you can usually visit the dentist without advance notice. But in the end family will . Croatian Cup Final: Dinamo Secures Final Spot after 4:1 Victory against Gorica, Croatian National Tourist Board Files Further Motion Against Paul Bradbury, Polako The Art of Service: Slowing Down, Looking for a Job in Croatia? Absolutely! It is more about finishing one task after another once the process gets started. The last major quake was in 2020, which caused significant damage to the city. Building a house and being a new mum. My recent trip there to inquire about getting my citizenship was met with a deathly look of disgust; the women at the counter had to ask a colleague what the process was and all they could agree on was that I should just come back when it expires and see what the rules are then. Some leading LGBTQ+ sites call Croatia as gay-friendly as the US. Income tax is tricky to calculate. Thank you for reading our article about Croatia and contributing to our knowledge base. While at government offices (and doctors), be warned. Getting a visa as a foreigner in Croatia is like winning a fluffy toy at the carnival sure, it can be achieved, but it isnt easy and will take many attempts. At the same time, you work, so youll need to enroll your kids in a kindergarten. @Patty, I cannot stress this enough, you need to contact the Croatian embassy/consulate in DC/NY/LA/Chicago for all current info that is relevant to US citizens at the time you are considering beginning the process. are in the process of building an excellent business, in Croatian and one commented that five years ago, I was unable to understand anything he said, which was in fact true. Yes, that would be nice! The smooth pebbled beaches are clean and look like they have for thousands of years. For more about lifestyle in Croatia, follow TCNs dedicatedpage. Adorio also has an excellent section detailing each jobs average gross (post-tax) salary. Basically, you become subject to income taxes after 183 days in the country. Croatia surprises me many times and especially at a time when I least expect it. Its seemingly untouched nature reserves and incredible biodiversity offer a landscape of purity that outdoor lovers could spend a lifetime exploring. Manage Settings To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Head straight to the Ministry of Police (MUP) when you arrive and start the lengthy process of getting your visa. You should review the local job market if you need a job while living in Croatia. I am pretty certain that no schoolwork could have prepared us for what has been happening since the pandemic started. Seven are cultural sites, and three are natural sites like Plitvice lakes. Since then, I have hardly written about my personal life having two kids now makes me even warier in sharing details about my life. If you need a sandy beach, the best place to find one is on Susak island since it is arguably the sandiest island in Croatia. Croatia has a few real estate taxes, but the most significant is the real estate transfer tax. Save on money exchange & credit card fees. next up is Macedonia!.. Birth, marriage, divorce, etc. There are various online discussions on similar topics. I have a 90 sqm flat in Zagreb thats a 15-minute walk from the center. Also, only one adult in a family needs to apply, and if approved, all close family members can join the visa holder in Croatia. Remind yourself that there is a reason that hundreds and thousands of Croats have moved abroad these past few years. Host 1-guest 0. Kids are free to roam about. Unfortunately, the visa regime in Croatia is not very efficient, esp. As a rough guide, we paid between 200 and 300 Kune per appointment for private doctors to see my newborn son to avoid waiting months for the hospital to get him into an appointment. Lets start with the negatives. It was ranked 28th in the 2019 Global Peace Index, 100 places ahead of the United States (128). When you decide to take a beach vacation during the high season, things start getting expensive.
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