If you have a solid understanding of the visa and immigration process, immigrating to Croatia is a rather straightforward process. On a regular Indian passport, a visa is necessary to enter Croatia. India diplomatic/official passport owners are not required to obtain a license to visit, exit, transit through, or remain in the country for up to 30 days. But in the case of immigration, Indian citizens must file for a long-stay permit. 

Types of visa 

If you intend to stay in Croatia for less than 90 days, you must obtain a short-term card. However, if you want to move for an extended period, you’ll need a long-stay pass.

Long-stay visa 

Indians who wish to remain for a period longer than 90 days must get a long-term pass. A temporary residency pass is additionally necessary, however, it is crucial to note that this paper does not automatically grant the authority to work in this nation because another authorization is needed. The following are the types of long-term visas:

  1. Family visa 

It is only available to Indian nationals who want to immigrate to join their family members. Only the spouse, kids, or parents are considered to be close relations. For this kind of pass, the sponsor must provide evidence of sufficient financial means and a place of residence.

Requirements 

You must provide the following documentation to obtain a family permit: 

  • Medical coverage documentation;
  • Cover letter (explaining why you are applying);
  • Evidence of the Indian citizen’s and sponsor’s relationship.
  1. Student Visa 

Foreign nationals who wish to complete their degree in an academic facility are granted this permit. You must be registered at an institute of higher education in Croatia before applying for a study permit. This card does not permit any student to work in the country. 

Requirements 

To qualify for a study permit, you must provide:

  • Proof of admission to University; 
  • Evidence of lodging;
  • Evidence of enough money required for studies;
  • Evidence of medical insurance;
  • A cover letter;
  • Birth certificate and a permission letter from parents (if a child is minor) and
  • Other identification documents.
  1. Employment Visa

You can reside and work in Croatia with this permit. You must secure a reliable job before you seek employment authorization. The person who hired you files for your permit. 

Requirement 

  • Proof of medical coverage;
  • Job contract;
  • Duplicate company registration;
  • Proof of higher education;
  • Evidence that the company was unable to hire the resident. 
  1. Digital Nomad Card 

It is given to online freelancers who wish to live there. It was established in 2021 in response to the financial issues brought on by the epidemic of 2020.

Residence permit

Indian nationals must file for residency status if they intend to stay in the nation for some time longer than three months. The following paperwork is necessary for this kind of permit: 

  • Copy of the birth certificate.
  • The passport or other identification document must be valid.
  • Health insurance.
  • Criminal record.
  • Financial statement.

 It is crucial to stress that the provisional residence status can be renewed after its initial year of validity. Furthermore, after five years have passed and the temporary stay has been extended, you can apply for permanent residency.

An overview of immigration 

The following manual outlines crucial phases in the immigration procedure for those who are interested:

  • Apply for an immigration visa. 
  • For those with a visa valid for no more than 90 days, a residence card is also necessary. 
  • Searching for a rental home is advised. 
  • Divorced parents must sign an agreement if they want to move with a child. 
  • Before requesting an employment pass, you must look for employment in Croatia. 
  • The employer will assist those who immigrate to Croatia for a job. 
  • For registration, the Croatian embassy in New Delhi must receive all necessary documentation.