The Ultimate Guide to Being a Digital Nomad in Croatia

Croatia has topped the list of digital nomad destinations since its digital nomad visa was launched in 2021. The country is located in one of the best spots in Europe, right on the Adriatic and surrounded by Hungary, Serbia, Slovenia, and others.

The Croatian economy heavily depends on tourism, which is why as a digital nomad in Croatia, you will benefit much from this decision. The lifestyle of ‘work to live’ and not ‘live to work’ makes the country a great destination. It also offers safety and makes living worthwhile.

If you desire to live and work as a digital nomad in Croatia, I will help you through the process by offering a guide on the cost of living, visa options, how to make extra money, the best cities to live in, and more. Keep reading as we explore these options together.

How to Become a Digital Nomad in Croatia

To become a digital nomad in Croatia, you must understand a few things involved. Start by researching visa requirements and eligibility based on your nationality. This is because countries have their rules applying to digital nomads.

Once you’ve determined your visa status, explore accommodation options, considering long-term rentals or co-living spaces that cater to remote workers. Then, familiarize yourself with the local culture, customs, and language. This will help to ease your transition and build connections within the community.

Next, establish a reliable internet connection, either through a local provider or by investing in mobile data plans. You must also ensure to create a dedicated workspace in your accommodation. Pay attention to conduciveness as that will boost your productivity and comfortable for long hours of work.

Another thing to help you become established in Croatia as a digital nomad is to network with other digital nomads in Croatia. This can be through online forums, social media groups, or coworking spaces where you exchange tips, collaborate on projects, and foster a sense of community. It is important you take advantage of Croatia’s natural beauty and outdoor activities during your downtime, balancing work and leisure effectively.

Lastly, stay informed about local regulations, tax obligations, and healthcare options to ensure a smooth and sustainable lifestyle as a digital nomad in Croatia. Continuously evaluate and adapt your routines to optimize work-life balance and maximize your experience in this vibrant Mediterranean country.

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The Cost of Living in Croatia

The cost of living in Croatia varies by location and lifestyle. On average, you can expect to spend $1000 to $2000 per month. This covers accommodation, food, transportation, entertainment, and other expenses. Look towards cities like Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik because they offer a mix of affordability and quality of life.

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Internet Speed and Cost

Croatia offers decent internet infrastructure, with internet speeds ranging from 30 Mbps to 500 Mbps in urban areas. Again, the cost of internet services varies depending on the provider and package but generally ranges from $30 to $70 per month for a reliable connection suitable for remote work. Popular providers include Hrvatski Telekom, Optima Telekom, and Vipnet.

Public Wi-Fi and Co-Working Spaces

Public Wi-Fi is accessible in many cafes, restaurants, and public areas across Croatia. You will find them in abundance in urban centers and tourist areas. For reliable and dedicated workspaces, you can opt for co-working spaces. Co-working space options like Impact Hub Zagreb, HUB385 in Split, and Green Gold in Zagreb supply modern workspaces, networking opportunities, and community events for remote professionals.

You may need travel insurance, check out the options here

Monthly Expenses

Digital nomads can manage their monthly expenses efficiently in Croatia. This is because the country is affordable with major amenities to ease life. Accommodation costs range from $400 to $1000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, while groceries and dining out can total around $300 to $500 monthly. Transportation expenses vary based on usage but typically range from $50 to $100 for public transport or rideshare services.

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How to Find a Place for Rent

Finding a place to rent in Croatia is fairly easy. Look up options in online platforms like Njuškalo, Airbnb, and Booking.com for long-term rentals or short-term stays. This will allow you time to search for permanent accommodation. Consider factors like location, safety, amenities, and rental agreements to ensure a comfortable living arrangement.

Food and Groceries

Croatia has a diverse culinary outlook, with popular choices like traditional dishes like seafood, grilled meats, and pastries. Konzum is Croatia’s largest grocery store chain with more than 700 stores nationwide. In all you do, don’t forget to taste Croatian black risotto, a local dish made with diverse seafood and red wine. It will turn your mouth and teeth black, but is very tasty.

What to Bring When Coming as a Digital Nomad in Croatia

Aside from essentials like clothing, toiletries, and electronics, it would be best if you considered bringing the following:

1. Travel insurance for health and emergencies.
2. A reliable laptop and accessories for remote work.
3. Power adapters for European outlets (Type C and Type F).
4. A good quality backpack or luggage for travel.
5. Beachwear and outdoor gear for exploring Croatia’s natural beauty.
6. Local currency (Croatian Kuna) or international credit/debit cards for transactions.
7. Any necessary documents for visa or residency purposes.

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Outdoor Activities for Digital Nomads in Croatia

Croatia offers multiple outdoor activities to enjoy during your stay. You can visit the country’s coastline along the Adriatic Sea for swimming, snorkeling, and diving in crystal-clear waters. Islands like Hvar and Korčula have beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Sailing along the coast or exploring secluded coves by boat can also be a relaxing and adventurous experience you will like.

Inland, Croatia boasts picturesque national parks such as Plitvice Lakes and Krka. If you want to hike, cycle, or immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, you can visit them. The mountains of Gorski Kotar and Velebit are also great for hiking, rock climbing, and even winter sports during the colder months. if you are interested in cultural activities, cities like Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb have historic sites, museums, and vibrant local markets.

Embracing a Minimalistic Lifestyle in Croatia

Embracing a minimalist lifestyle as a digital nomad in Croatia can be rewarding. The country’s natural beauty encourages a simpler way of living. It helps you focus on experiences rather than material possessions. Start by decluttering your living space and adopting sustainable practices such as reducing waste and conserving energy. Again, opt for minimalist accommodation in smaller towns or villages to enable you to enjoy a more serene and mindful lifestyle.

Croatia’s local cuisine, known for its fresh seafood, organic produce, and Mediterranean flavors, complements a minimalist approach to eating. Choosing quality over quantity and supporting local farmers’ markets can align with your minimalist values while enjoying delicious and healthy meals. Engaging in outdoor activities and cultural experiences rather than shopping or excessive consumption can further enhance the minimalist lifestyle in Croatia.

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How a Digital Nomad in Croatia Makes Money

You can make money through various remote work opportunities, freelancing, online businesses, and consulting services. The country’s growing digital infrastructure, including reliable internet connectivity and coworking spaces supports remote work and entrepreneurship. Many of your colleagues leverage their skills in areas such as digital marketing, web development, content creation, consulting, and e-commerce to generate income while enjoying Croatia’s lifestyle.

Moreover, networking with local entrepreneurs and collaborating with international clients can expand your opportunities to earn money while living and working in Croatia. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr also provide avenues to find gigs and remote work in your industry.

Visa Options and Restrictions for Digital Nomads in Croatia

The type of visa you can opt for depends on your nationality, intended length of stay, and purpose of visit. Citizens of EU/EEA countries, and Switzerland, can stay in Croatia for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. But if you are staying longer or you got a permanent job and you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you may need to apply for a residence permit or work visa.

As a digital nomad, you can apply for a Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) introduced in 2021. The DNV allows you to live and work remotely in Croatia for up to a year, with the possibility of renewal. Requirements for the DNV include proof of employment or sufficient funds, health insurance coverage, and a clean criminal record.

Top Places Digital Nomads in Croatia Can Live

You may not be able to live just anywhere in the country due to the nature of your job. Hence, consider the following cities when settling down:

1. Zagreb

Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb, offers a vibrant urban environment with a mix of historical charm and modern amenities. You can benefit from coworking spaces like Impact Hub Zagreb and HUB385.

They also have a thriving startup scene and cultural attractions such as museums, galleries, and parks. The city’s central location makes it a convenient base for exploring other parts of Croatia.

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2. Split

Situated along the Adriatic coast, Split is known for its ancient Roman architecture, bustling markets, and lively waterfront promenade. You can access coworking spaces like COIN Coworking and Split Tech City. Not only that, there is easy access to nearby islands like Brač and Hvar for weekend getaways..

3. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is renowned for its well-preserved medieval walls, historic Old Town, and stunning coastal views. You can work from coworking spaces such as Rezident and Dubrovnik Coworking while exploring cultural landmarks like Fort Lovrijenac and Dubrovnik Cathedral.

4. Rijeka

Rijeka is a port city in northern Croatia known for its maritime heritage, cultural events, and creative industries. It has coworking spaces like Generator Rijeka and RI Hub. This can allow you to engage with local startups and art initiatives. Rijeka’s proximity to natural attractions like Risnjak National Park and the Kvarner Gulf adds to its appeal for remote workers.

5. Pula

Situated in the Istria region, Pula is known for its Roman ruins, beaches, and Mediterranean cuisine. Coworking spaces like Colab Pula and Pula Tech Park are great options for your work. They are also close to the Pula Arena and Temple of Augustus where you can relax after work.

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Other Information

Explore Croatia’s rich culture, history, and natural landscapes during your stay. Join digital nomad communities and attend networking events to connect with like-minded professionals and gain insights into local resources, opportunities, and experiences. Familiarize yourself with Croatia’s healthcare system, emergency services, and local laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience as a digital nomad in Croatia.

In conclusion, Croatia is a great place to live as a digital nomad. It has opportunities to explore work and life balance. The information above will guide you to becoming a digital nomad in Croatia.

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