.svg){kind=logo}
Before an employer in Croatia can hire a foreign worker from outside the EU or EEA, they must usually prove that no suitable local candidate is available to fill the position.?This process, known as the labor market test (LMT), is a critical part of the Croatian work permit application procedure.
Understanding how the labor market test works helps both employers and foreign applicants navigate the hiring process legally and efficiently.
1. What Is the Labor Market Test in Croatia?
The labor market test is a verification process conducted by the Croatian Employment Service (HZZ) to determine whether a Croatian or EU/EEA citizen can fill a job position before it is offered to a third-country national.
The goal is to protect the domestic labor market and ensure that foreign hiring only occurs when there is a shortage of local workers in a particular occupation.
2. When Is a Labor Market Test Required?
A labor market test is required before submitting a work permit request for most foreign employees.
It is mandatory unless:
• The job is on the official list of shortage occupations published by the HZZ.
• The employer is hiring for positions exempted under intra-company transfer or EU Blue Card schemes.
• The foreigner is already working in Croatia and applying for permit renewal with the same employer.
If your job is not on the shortage list, the employer must complete the test before they can proceed with a foreign worker’s application.
3. How the Labor Market Test Works
The labor market test process in Croatia involves several official steps managed through the Croatian Employment Service (HZZ).
Here’s how it typically works:
1 Job Vacancy Announcement:?The employer submits a job vacancy to the local HZZ office, including job details, qualifications required, and working conditions.
2 Verification Period:?The HZZ reviews the job post and checks whether there are registered unemployed Croatian or EU citizens who meet the job requirements.
3 Candidate Referral:?If suitable candidates are found, HZZ refers them to the employer for interviews.
4 Employer Feedback:?The employer must provide written feedback on the suitability of referred candidates.
5 Issuance of Labor Market Opinion:
? If no suitable candidates are available, the HZZ issues a positive opinion, allowing the employer to proceed with a work and residence permit application for a foreign worker.
? If suitable candidates exist, the HZZ issues a negative opinion, and the employer cannot hire a third-country national for that position.
4. Validity of the Labor Market Test Result
A positive labor market test result is typically valid for 90 days from the date of issue.?During this time, the employer must submit a work and residence permit application through the Ministry of Interior (MUP).
If the 90-day period expires, the employer must request a new labor market test before applying again.
5. Exemptions from the Labor Market Test
Certain categories of workers and job types are exempt from the labor market test in Croatia, including:
• Jobs listed as high-demand or shortage occupations (e.g., construction, tourism, hospitality, healthcare, IT).
• Intra-company transfers or seasonal workers covered under special agreements.
• EU Blue Card and highly qualified professionals.
• Key managerial or specialized company staff.
• Researchers, lecturers, and university professors.
These exemptions are updated periodically by the Croatian government, usually at the start of each year.
6. Responsibilities of Employers
Employers in Croatia must ensure that:
• The job vacancy is properly advertised and registered with HZZ.
• The working conditions, salary, and benefits comply with Croatian labor law.
• The job description matches the employee’s qualifications.
• The labor market test opinion is included in the work permit application to MUP.
Failure to follow these steps can result in application rejection or penalties for the employer.
7. Average Processing Time
The labor market test typically takes 10 to 15 days from the date the job vacancy is submitted.?However, the time may vary depending on:
• The region or HZZ office processing the request, and
• Whether suitable candidates are found during the verification phase.
Employers are advised to apply early, especially during busy hiring seasons in industries such as construction or tourism.
8. Why the Labor Market Test Matters
The labor market test ensures that:
• Local and EU citizens are given priority in employment opportunities.
• Foreign workers are only hired when genuine labor shortages exist.
• The integrity of the Croatian labor market is maintained.
For foreign applicants, understanding this process helps set realistic expectations and timelines before applying for a job or visa.
Key Takeaway
The labor market test in Croatia is a mandatory step for most non-EU workers before a work permit can be issued.?Employers must coordinate with the Croatian Employment Service (HZZ) to prove no suitable local candidates are available.?By following the correct procedure, both employers and foreign workers can ensure a smooth and compliant work permit process.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice.?Labor market test rules and exemption lists in Croatia may change based on labor demand and government regulations.?Always confirm current requirements with the Croatian Employment Service (HZZ) or the Ministry of the Interior (MUP) before applying.
November 7, 2025
