.svg){kind=logo}
Introduction
Applying for a Croatian work visa involves several important steps, and one of the mandatory requirements is health insurance. Whether you are applying for a standard employment visa or Croatia’s digital nomad permit, you must provide proof of valid insurance coverage. This article explains the requirement in detail, outlines what kind of insurance is accepted, and answers the most common questions.
Health Insurance Requirement Before Visa Issuance
For a Croatian work visa (long-term, Type D), applicants must have travel medical insurance in place before the visa can be approved. This insurance must cover at least EUR 30,000 in medical costs and include emergency treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation in case of serious illness or death.
The insurance has to be valid across the entire Schengen area, not just Croatia, and it must be valid for the full period of the intended stay. Some embassies and visa centers specify that the policy must be valid for at least 30 days from the date of arrival in Croatia.
Without providing a valid insurance policy that meets these standards, your visa application will not be processed.
Digital Nomad Visa and Other Long-Stay Permits
Croatia also offers a temporary stay permit for digital nomads and other long-term residents. Health insurance is also mandatory for these categories. Applicants need to show proof of health coverage that is valid in Croatia. Although specific coverage limits may not always be listed in public guidelines, in practice, the same standards apply: adequate medical protection, including emergencies and repatriation.
Health Insurance After Arrival in Croatia
Once you enter Croatia with a valid work visa, your obligations regarding health insurance do not end. Foreign nationals with a temporary or permanent residence permit are generally required to register with the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO).
Permanent residents must pay into the Croatian system, while temporary residents may also be required to do so unless they can prove alternative coverage. EU/EEA citizens may use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for temporary stays, but long-term residents will still need to comply with national rules.
Why This Requirement Matters
Health insurance is not only a legal requirement for the visa process, it also protects you from significant medical expenses during your stay. Having a compliant policy ensures you can access healthcare services in Croatia and across the Schengen area if emergencies arise.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. Immigration laws and visa requirements are subject to change. Always confirm the latest requirements with the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia, the Ministry of the Interior, or your nearest Croatian embassy or consulate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I have to provide health insurance for a Croatian work visa??
Yes. Travel medical insurance is mandatory, with minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 for emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
Q2: How long does my insurance need to be valid??
It must cover the entire period of your stay in Croatia. In many cases, it also has to cover at least 30 days from the date of arrival.
Q3: Is private insurance acceptable?
Yes. Private travel medical insurance is acceptable for the visa application as long as it meets Schengen requirements. After arrival, you may still need to register with the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO).
Q4: What about digital nomads?
Digital nomad applicants must also provide proof of health insurance that covers Croatia for the entire intended stay.
Q5: Can someone in Croatia arrange the insurance for me?
Yes. A person or organization in Croatia may arrange the insurance on your behalf, as long as the policy meets official standards.
