5 Things to Avoid When Looking For Job in Croatia

When looking for a job in Croatia, it’s important to remember that not all the same rules apply to your home country. In this section, we will walk you through the things to avoid when looking for a job in a new country (especially in Croatia). Without further ado, here are five things to avoid when looking for work in Croatia.

Don’t Apply for Jobs you’re Not Qualified For

Just because you see a job opening in Croatia doesn’t mean you should immediately bag it. If you don’t have any experience in a particular industry or field, there is no point in applying. This will show up at the interview stage when even if they want to hire you, they can’t because you simply aren’t qualified for the job. You will waste your time and theirs.

Don’t Lie About Your Previous Experience

When you are applying for jobs, always tell the truth on your CV or at an interview. It is completely pointless to lie about your experience because this could come back to bite you at a later stage of employment. They might even check the references you have provided, so it’s best not to make things up.

Don’t Be Too Assertive

When negotiating pay at an interview, don’t be overly demanding. This can put off future employers, and they may doubt your commitment to their company if you are already set on a certain wage. They may even think you will leave for something better when it becomes available so that they won’t invest in training you.

Don’t Get Angry If Things Don’t Work Out

When looking for jobs in Croatia, you are bound to get turned down by potential employers quite often, especially if you are an international applicant. It’s best to take everything in stride and always think of the positive side; it wasn’t meant to be, but there is no reason why something else won’t come along.

Don’t Stop Looking For Work

Even though you find a job, that doesn’t mean you should stop looking for work elsewhere. Keep your options open and never feel complacent about your current situation. If there is something else out there you like more, then go ahead and apply for it (just make sure to keep your current employer informed).

Don’t Forget To Research the Company Thoroughly

Before going for an interview, it’s essential to research the company. This means looking into their history, what they do, and who their competitors are. You should also be familiar with the Croatian market to ask relevant questions in the interview. This will show that you are interested in the company and have taken the time to learn about it.

Requirements to Get Jobs in Croatia

Certificates

The first step is getting some certificates. If you have a high school diploma, it’s probably not enough to get you on your way. You will need additional certifications, like basic education and vocational training.

Having these two will definitely help fill in your resume! But if you had any certificates geared towards more of specialization, like secretarial work or assembling vehicles, they would be good too!

Minimum Wage

The minimum wage is another requirement for getting a job in Croatia. The current minimum wage is 5300 kunas, which comes out to about $770. You can check the government’s website for any updates or changes on this.

Resume and Cover Letter

Having a good resume and cover letter (in Croatian) is a must if you want to score an interview. Your resume should be one page long and showcase your skills, work experience, education, and volunteer work. That’s why you need to prepare a well-structured resume when looking for a job as an expat.

Croatian Language

Speaking Croatian is a big plus for getting a job in Croatia. If you don’t know the language, it’s not impossible to find a job, but it will be much harder. On the flip side, it would be better to start learning Croatian today, and you’ll be one step closer to your dream job.

Age

The age requirement for working in Croatia is 18 unless you have a work permit from the labor ministry. The ministry of labour will allow 16 and 17-year-olds to work if necessary for their education or training. So, ensure you have this in mind while working in Croatia as an expat.

Conclusion

As said earlier, there are tons of opportunities for expats wanting to work in Croatia. At the same time, you need to play your path by checking and researching all the requirements involved. Would you love to know more about working in this country as an expat? It would be better to refer to this article as an ultimate guide.

Top 10 Jobs Suitable For Expats in Croatia

So, you’re thinking of moving to Croatia? Great choice! This beautiful country is home to fantastic scenery, a rich culture, and plenty of opportunities for expats. But what should you do for work? Check out our list of the top 10 jobs suitable for expats in Croatia.

1.    English Teacher

One of the most popular jobs for expats in Croatia is teaching English. There are a number of private language schools that are always on the lookout for qualified teachers. The pay is usually around 500 Euros per month, although living in Croatia is also relatively low. If you’re bilingual, teaching English in Croatia is an ideal job to build up your savings when you first move to the country. Once you’re financially settled, it’s a good idea to apply for positions at Croatian public schools as well.

2.    Web Designer

Many agencies are looking for web designers in Croatia, and if you have experience with any of the popular content management systems such as WordPress or Drupal, finding a job shouldn’t be too difficult. Most web design jobs in Croatia are for contract positions, so it’s a good idea to have a few solid references lined up before you start looking.

3.    Journalist

The media industry in Croatia is growing, and many news websites rely on foreign journalists to provide content. Many of these websites pay very little per article, but they help contribute material on Croatian culture, history, or politics. It’s also possible to find full-time jobs writing for Croatian newspapers or magazines, but the competition for these positions is usually fierce.

4.    Tour guide

If you’re an experienced tour guide with a good knowledge of Croatian history and culture, finding work in this field should be easy. Many private companies offer tours of Croatia’s beautiful coastal towns and islands, and most of these businesses are always on the lookout for new guides. The downside is that the pay usually isn’t very good, but you can often negotiate a monthly allowance for food and accommodation.

5.    Hotel manager

Croatia is a popular tourist destination, and many hotels are constantly looking for experienced hotel managers to join their teams. The salary fo this position can vary quite a bit, but it’s generally a good job with plenty of career growth opportunities. Many larger hotels also provide free accommodation for employees, which means you can save up money to invest in a house or apartment.

6.    Personal Assistant

Expats working in Croatia often have an assistant who helps them with administrative tasks related to their job. This position is advantageous if you’re moving to Croatia temporarily and need somebody to handle all the day-to-day tasks that you can’t do yourself. The salary for this position is usually around 1000 Euros per month, and it’s a great way to get a taste of Croatian culture and lifestyle.

7.    Translator

Many Croatian companies are looking for translators who can work in English, German, Italian or Spanish. The jobs for translators usually require some knowledge of the local market, so it’s important to do your research on Croatian companies before you apply. This position is advantageous if you’re planning on working in Croatia while continuing to build up your freelance business.

8.    Wedding Planner

The wedding industry is constantly growing in Croatia, and there is a high demand for foreign experts who can help couples organize their big day. If you have experience in this field and know the local market well, you should find plenty of work opportunities in Croatia. It’s also possible to specialize in some country areas, such as Dalmatia or Istria.

9.    Interior designer

Interior design is a booming industry in Croatia, and it’s becoming more and more popular with expats who want to set up their businesses. By working for an established company, you’ll have less responsibility, but it’s also possible to build your network and work on your own projects.

This is an outstanding field for people who want to get into the Croatian property market since they need help designing their homes.

10. Freelance Writer

As an English speaker, you have a lot of potentials to make money as a freelance writer in Croatia. The majority of websites and businesses are looking for writers who can produce quality content on a regular basis, and the pay is usually quite good. It’s essential to be aware that the competition for freelance writing jobs is quite high, so you’ll need to be proactive in finding new clients.

Pros and Cons of Living in Croatia

Living in Croatia can be extremely difficult, boring, or rewarding, depending on a person’s perspective. Also, there are many great things about living here, but also some downsides as well. The opportunities available to you here are by far more limited than they would be if you lived elsewhere.

Being a member of the European Union means that people from other parts of Europe have a broader range of opportunities available to them while living in Croatia as an expat. That being said, we will walk you through the pros and cons of living in Croatia as an expat in this section. Check it out below!

Pros

1.    The Weather

One of the first things people tend to mention when talking about Croatia is the weather. And it’s no wonder – with over 2,000 hours of sunshine per year, it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to Croatia’s Mediterranean climate. The temperatures are also very pleasant year-round, making it a great winter getaway or summer holiday destination.

2.    The Food

Croatia is known for its centuries-old winemaking traditions, but did you know that Croatia has cultivated olive trees since Roman times? This means that the country’s delicious olive oil, which can also be found in many of Croatia’s local dishes, has been enjoyed by locals for thousands of years.

3.    The Beauty

Many things make Croatia a wonderful country, but its coastal cities are one of the biggest attractions in the region. Take Zadar, Dubrovnik, Split, and Pula, for example – all of these popular coastal destinations show off Croatia’s stunning coastline and beautiful architecture.

4.    The Beaches

With over 1,200 islands and nearly as many kilometers of coastline, Croatia is a popular destination for those who love to lounge on the beach all day long! Whether you’re looking for some fun in the sun with your family or just want to relax with a good book and cocktail, there’s a beach in Croatia for everyone.

5.    The Culture

Croatia is home to a rich and diverse culture that its many different influences have shaped over the years. From Roman ruins to Venetian architecture, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Croatian culture.

6.    The Relaxation

Croatia is the perfect place to relax and unwind. With its peaceful beaches, delicious food, and stunning countryside, it’s easy to see why people love spending time in Croatia. As an expat coming to this country for the first time, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy living in this country compared to others you’ve visited.

7.    The Cost of Living

Compared to other popular European destinations, Croatia is a relatively affordable place to live. This makes it an excellent option for those who are looking for a more affordable holiday getaway or retirement destination. In fact, you’ll be able to save and enjoy your lifestyle as an expat while living in this country.

Cons

1.    The Bureaucracy Can Be Frustrating

The Croatian bureaucracy is to be avoided at all costs for one very good reason: everything has to go through the government. And it takes forever because of all the ways they’ve found to complicate things further than they need to be, so you might as well not do anything unless you want it done right.

The best example of this is the registration office. They will make you wait for hours at a time, do mind-bending stupid things, and generally drive people crazy with their incompetence.

2.    Croatian Drivers Are Terrible

Croatian roads are challenging to navigate even for locals who have driven on them every day for many years, so a foreigner drunk with their newfound freedom is bound to crash a car or two and probably cause some fender benders while learning how to master the opposite-side driving. If you manage not to hit anyone while driving in Croatia, consider yourself lucky.

3.    The Food Is Bland, Overpriced, And Inconvenient

The food in Croatia isn’t bad, but it’s not exciting either unless you are really into the meat. If you are a vegetarian or vegan (or raw vegan), prepare to be disappointed. You can find some good fruit and veg at the open market places like Dolac in Zagreb, but the prices are usually high. Like most other things in Croatia, food is expensive here. If you stick to home-cooking, though, it’s not so bad.

4.    You, Will, Have to Learn How to Speak Croatian

This one might come as a surprise for some expats who have already been through the Croatian bureaucracy and came out unscathed. But when it comes down to actually fitting in with the locals, you will have a much better time if you learn some conversational Croatian.

And that means learning how to read and write, too (the Latin script is not very complicated). If you don’t plan on getting a job here, then learn how to order food and maybe buy a drink or two. It’s not that bad.

5.    You, Will, Have to Deal with Discrimination

Croatia is mainly a white country, and it’s known for having some seriously racist tendencies. Especially the elderly and those under 50 grew up with socialist values that glorified “brotherhood and unity” all across Yugoslavia.

Everyone else isn’t as wrong, but there are still noticeable differences in how people treat you based on your appearance. If you are visibly non-white, expect to be treated with suspicion or hostility in some cases.

6.    The Internet Can Be Unreliable

One thing that often frustrates expats and locals alike is the poor quality of the internet in Croatia. This is especially true in the countryside, where many providers offer prolonged speeds and limited or no coverage. If you rely on the internet for work or school, this could be a major source of frustration.

7.    Not all areas of Croatia are safe

Although most large cities in Croatia are generally safe to walk around, it’s essential to remain vigilant when visiting smaller towns and villages. There are still some areas in Croatia that have high experience levels of crime, particularly certain parts of Zagreb (including Skenderija) and Dubrovnik (such as Lapad).

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Croatia

What is the cost of health care in Croatia?

Health care costs in Croatia vary depending on your health insurance plan and the services you require. However, as a general rule, you can expect to pay between €80 and €100 per month for health insurance. For uninsured procedures that are necessary but not critical, you can expect to pay between €150 and €500.

How are employment opportunities like in Croatia?

The unemployment rate in Croatia is currently at 17%. However, the country has recently voted to leave the European Union, so many employment opportunities are expected to open up in the next few years. In the meantime, several sectors offer employment opportunities, including tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing.

How safe is Zagreb?

Zagreb is generally very safe during the day, but after dark, it becomes less so because of pick-pockets. As a rule, you should avoid walking alone at night and use common sense to protect yourself.

Conclusion

With its stunning coasts, ancient architecture, and cultural heritage, Croatia is a country that genuinely has it all. The Croatian government also makes a living there as easy as possible for foreign residents looking to relocate. So, you don’t have to keep surfing the internet as all you need is on this platform.

7 Best Cities Suitable For Expats in Croatia

As Croatia becomes an increasingly popular destination for expats, more and more people are asking: which city is best suited for me? Luckily, there are several great cities in Croatia that are perfect for expats. Here are seven of the best:

1.    Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is one of the most popular cities in Croatia and one of the most beautiful. The city is surrounded by UNESCO-protected walls, which are a sight to behold. Many people come here for their holidays because there’s so much to do – from great restaurants and bars to beaches you can swim at all year round.

If you’re an expat looking for a home, Dubrovnik is one of the best cities to settle down in. It’s not too large or overwhelming, but it has plenty of amenities that expats will need. There are English bookshops, international supermarkets, and you’ll find most restaurants have their menus translated into other languages, which makes eating out easy for expats who don’t know Croatian.

2.    Split

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia, and it’s a great place for expats to live. It also happens to be one of the most affordable cities in the country. Split has a really vibrant culture, and there’s always something going on – whether it’s a music festival, a food festival, or a parade.

The locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and there’s a good expat community in the city. The cost of living is low, which is great for expats on a budget, and there are plenty of job opportunities available.

3.    Zagreb

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia, and it’s a great place for expats to live. The city has a lot of green spaces, which is perfect for people who love the outdoors. There are also plenty of museums and galleries that local history buffs will adore.

If you’re an expat looking for work, Zagreb is a good option because English is widely spoken here – Croatians learn it in school from a young age. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an excellent option for those on a budget.

4.    Rijeka

Rijeka is the third-largest city in Croatia, and it’s a great place for expats to live. The city has a lot of history and culture, and there are plenty of museums and art galleries for locals and expats alike. There’s also great nightlife in Rijeka, where you’ll find lots of bars, restaurants, and coffee shops to choose from. Expats looking to stay fit won’t be disappointed either – there are plenty of gyms available.

5.    Opatija

Opatija is one of the most popular resorts in Croatia, and it’s one of the best places to live if you’re an expat. It has long been a favorite with tourists, which means plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops for expats to visit.

The weather in Opatija is perfect too, with mild winters and summers that aren’t too hot. This makes it a great place to live all year round.

6.    Pula

Pula is the largest city in Istria, and it’s a great place for expats to live. The city has a lot of history and culture, and it’s home to some of the best beaches in Croatia. This is a great place to settle down because the city has a compact center that’s easy to navigate.

There’s also a good expat community here, so if you’re looking for friends as well as work, Pula might be the perfect destination for you.

7.    Hvar

Hvar is one of the most popular islands in Croatia, and it’s a great place for expats to live. The island has a lot of history and culture, and it’s home to some of the best beaches in Croatia. This is a great place to settle down because the island has a compact center that’s easy to navigate.

There’s also a good expat community here, so if you’re looking for friends as well as work, Hvar might be the perfect destination for you.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

So, you’ve decided to move to Croatia. Congratulations! This beautiful country has a lot to offer expats, from its stunning coastline and crystal-clear seas to its fascinating culture and delicious food. But before you can start enjoying all that Croatia has to offer, there are a few things you need to know.

And, like with any country in the world, it can be hard to get all of your questions answered when you don’t know where to turn. Luckily for you (and anyone else who has ever asked themselves, “where can I find information about moving to Croatia?”), this living in Croatia expat guide was written just for you.

In this guide, we will cover everything from getting a visa to finding a job to settling into your new home. So whether you’re just starting to plan your move or you’ve already made the jump and are looking for some advice on what to do next, keep reading for everything you need to know about living in Croatia as an expat.

However, one of the first things you’ll need to do when moving to Croatia is get a visa. Unless you are a citizen of an EU country, you will need access to stay in Croatia for more than 90 days. The good news is that there are a number of different visas available. This way, there’s a good chance you will be able to find one that fits your needs.

Have you been surfing the internet to get the right information about living in Croatia as an expat? If that sounds like a yes, look no further! We have compiled this article to explain what living in Croatia entails. That being said, we will walk you through the pros, cons, interesting facts, and many others.

8 Interesting Facts about Living in Croatia

Who doesn’t want to live in Croatia? The sea, the sun, the amusement parks! What about their delicious food and friendly people? We caught some interesting facts about life in Croatia that might help you learn more about the country and its culture – see how many of them you know below!

1.    Submarines are Very Popular Here

Croatia is associated with its beautiful coastlines, azure-blue water, and red wine. However, there are many natural wonders to explore inland too. While the Croatian part of the country is relatively small (around 50 miles wide), there are lots of things to discover in this country, and a lot of them are well hidden.

One of the most impressive sights is a channel going through an underground mountain near Zadar – locally called “Pasadena.” Tito built this unusual channel in 1968 for one thing only. And that’s to secretly transport submarines from Šibenik harbor across the country to Zadar. The channel entrance is just a few dozen meters from the open sea and very well camouflaged.

2.    Home to Welcoming People

Croatians are well-known for their hospitality and friendliness. In fact, a recent study by Eurobarometer showed that Croatians score the highest in almost all of the categories that had to do with hospitality. This proves that it’s not all just talk – there is also the truth behind this statement. Croatians are open-minded and tolerant people, eager to show you how truly unique their country is.

3.    Home to Best Preserved Medieval Towns in Croatia

 If you’re a fan of medieval architecture, you’ll love Croatia. Many of the country’s towns and villages date back to the Middle Ages, and they’ve been preserved very well over time. Most of these villages are located in central and northern Croatia, and some of them are even UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

4.    The Coastline Is Absolutely Stunning

Croatia’s coastline is one of the most beautiful in Europe, and it’s no wonder that so many people choose to holiday here. With over 1,100 miles of coastline to explore, you’ll never get bored. The coastline is mostly made up of rocky cliffs and pebble beaches, but there are a few sandy beaches too.

5.    Home to Multicultural Cities in Europe

Zagreb, the capital and largest city in Croatia, has a highly diverse population with many ethnicities and nationalities, such as Serbian, Italian and Hungarian. This is due to the large number of immigrants that came to Zagreb during the 20th century, making the city one of the most multicultural in Europe.

6.    Croatia Is Home To Many National Parks

There are eight national parks in Croatia, which is quite a large number for such a small country. One of these, Plitvice Lakes National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see on any visit to Croatia. If you’re a history buff, the other seven national parks are also interesting to explore. They contain many medieval ruins and sites of historic battles dating back to the 14th century.

7.    Croats Love Pizza and Pasta

Well, this one may not exactly come as a surprise to most people. Pizza and pasta are famous worldwide, but Croatia is no exception. It does take a while for traditional Croatian food to become trendy, however.

During the 80s, when there was a big wave of Italian immigrants coming into the country, many restaurants were actually owned by Italians who introduced pizza and pasta to Croatians. Since then, it has been a staple of Croatian homes and restaurants all over the country.

8.    Most People Live In Apartments

You may be surprised to learn that most Croatians actually live in apartments (both as rentals and as condos). This is because Croatia can be quite expensive to buy a house on your own, so people will generally find an apartment to rent instead. In cities such as Zagreb, this is especially popular because it means people can afford a bit more space for themselves.

9.    Croatian Is the Official Language

We’ve all heard of Croats and Croatians, but did you know that Croatian is the only official language in Croatia? This means it is used for all legal documents, educational materials, etc. However, because it is a Slavic language, many people in Croatia also speak Russian, Serbian and Bosnian. So don’t worry – you’ll be able to get by with English too.

10. Croatians Love Spending Time Outdoors

One of the best things about living in Croatia is that the weather is perfect for spending time outdoors year-round. Whether you’re swimming at the beach, hiking in the mountains, or just enjoying a walk around town, there’s always something to do outside. And since Croatians are so active, there’s always a lively atmosphere wherever you go.