Croatia
Residence procedure: Temporary residence registration at the local police station (MUP)
Official government websiteYour 7-step relocation checklist
- Step 1
EU Free Movement confirmed
As an EU citizen, you have the right to live and work in Croatia with no visa. Bring a valid passport or national ID card.
- Step 2
Find accommodation
A local address is required for most other steps (registration, bank, tax number). Check housing costs before you move.
Cost of living in Croatia - Step 3
Register your residence — Temporary residence registration at the local police station (MUP)
Deadline: Within 8 days for short stays; before 3 months for residence. This is the local residence registration procedure required under EU Directive 2004/38/EC after your first 3 months.
Official government portal - Step 4
Get your OIB (Osobni identifikacijski broj)
You need a OIB (Osobni identifikacijski broj) to work, get paid, or open a bank account in Croatia.
Apply for OIB (Osobni identifikacijski broj) - Step 5
Register with HZZO – Croatian Health Insurance Fund
Once resident and working, register with HZZO – Croatian Health Insurance Fund. In the meantime your EHIC covers necessary care.
HZZO – Croatian Health Insurance Fund portal - Step 6
Open a local bank account
Most Croatia employers pay salary into a local EUR account. Bring your ID, proof of address and OIB (Osobni identifikacijski broj).
- Step 7
Calculate your expected net salary
See what you'll actually take home in Croatia after tax and social security.
Open net salary calculator
FAQ — Moving to Croatia
Information verified for 2026 from official Croatia government sources. This guide applies to EU citizens under EU Directive 2004/38/EC.