EU Citizens:

• Free movement – must register with MUP within 90 days
• May open and operate a business without a special work visa

Non-EU Citizens:

• Temporary residence permit (1 year) for entrepreneurs and investors
• Proof of income, business plan, clean criminal record
• Health insurance required

• Legal forms: obrt (sole trader) or d.o.o. (LLC)

  Steps for d.o.o.:

  • Reserve name and notarize articles of incorporation
  • Register with commercial court and tax authority
  • Join health (HZZO) and pension (HZMO) systems
  • Apply for municipal licenses

Timeline: 3–6 weeks

• Hospitality concession license required
• Hygiene and fire safety inspections
• Alcohol license needed
• Terrace dining requires additional permits

Requirements vary by municipality – local guidance recommended.

• Corporate tax: 10% for annual revenue under €995,000; 18% otherwise
• VAT: 13% on food, 25% on alcohol
• Income tax: 20–30% (progressive)

English-speaking accountants common in Zagreb, Split, and coastal areas.

• Minimum wage (2025): ~€840/month
• Seasonal worker programs available
• Mandatory contracts and social contributions
• Termination regulations are strict – plan carefully

• EU citizens can purchase property freely
• Commercial leases typically long-term (5+ years)
• “Key money” often required in high-demand locations
• Coastal and historical zones have stricter building codes

• Seasonality (May–October) shapes operations
• Authentic regional cuisine highly valued
• German and Austrian tourists are a key audience
• Language barriers may arise in rural areas

• Croatian Chamber of Economy (HGK)
• Local tourism boards
• EU startup support agencies
• Expat networks in Istria, Dalmatia, and Zagreb

• EU rural development funds
• National SME agency HAMAG-BICRO
• Sustainable tourism grants for remote regions

• Invest in Croatia
• Ministry of Economy
• Croatian Chamber of Economy

In Croatia, relationships open doors. Build your local network early and plan ahead for longer approval timelines.