Securing a Seasonal Work Permit in Croatia: 2024 edition
Amidst the vibrant energy of Croatia's summer, a myriad of short-term positions emerges, creating opportunities in tourism, agriculture, and other sectors facing a workforce crunch. For those with a sense of adventure, foreign nationals can seize the chance to land a seasonal gig that extends their stay in the beautiful country for up to six months.
Navigating the job market is made exciting by targeting roles that are currently in short supply across Croatia. From the skilled hands of bakers and masons to the creative strokes of house painters and the strategic minds of civil engineers and truck drivers, these roles are hot commodities. Not to be overlooked, the tourism sector also beckons with a flurry of opportunities during the sun-soaked months.
But it's not just about the job – employers sweeten the deal by offering cozy accommodations to their seasonal workforce, all without nibbling away at their hard-earned wages.
Keep in mind, though, that the seasonal work permit is like a golden ticket tied to a specific employer. Straying from this designated path, such as entertaining the idea of working for a different employer, triggers the unfortunate loss of the permit and a mandatory farewell to the Croatian summer dream.
Who is considered a “Seasonal Worker?”
(Article12 and 13) of the Law -
12) a seasonal worker is a citizen of a third country who maintains their residence in a third country and legally and temporarily reside in the Republic of Croatia in order to perform work that depends on thechange of seasons within the framework of one or more fixed-term employment contracts concludeddirectly with the employer with a place of business in the Republic of Croatia
13) an activity that depends on the change of seasons is an activity that is linked to a certain time of the year by a certain recurring event or a series of events that are connected to seasonal conditions, during whichthe level of the required workforce significantly exceeds the level of the workforce required for normal current business, and activities in which the employment of seasonal workers is allowed are agriculture and forestry as well as tourism and catering
How long are the permits available for?
You have the option to request a seasonal employment authorization for:
Employment lasting up to 90 days
Employment extending up to 6 months for positions facing a labor shortage
Employment extending up to 6 months for positions not facing a labor shortage
Renewal of a seasonal work permit
What is a Labour market Test?
The Croatian Employment Office, known as HZZ, conducts a labor market assessment called the "test tržišta rada" to assess whether a company can hire a foreign worker. During this process, they verify if any individuals in their database who are currently unemployed meet the criteria for the specified position. If no suitable candidates are found, the employer is then eligible to submit an application for a work permit.
Under what conditions would this test be unnecessary?
Occupations with staff shortages
Prolongation of the work authorization for a consistent employer and a particular third-country individual
Temporary hiring of third-country citizens in farming, forestry, hospitality, and tourism for a maximum of 90 days within a single calendar year
Categories outlined in Article 110 of the Foreigners Law – essential personnel in businesses, EU Blue Card holders, internally transferred employees, etc.
Which professions are in high demand in Croatia?
This list encompasses a wide range of professions, from auto mechanics and bakers to building workers and butchers, each specializing in their respective fields. It includes skilled trades like carpentry, electricians, locksmiths, welders, and stonemasons, as well as culinary roles such as chefs of national cuisine, pastry chefs, and confectioners. Other specialized roles involve construction, such as crane operators, concrete mixers, and pipeline fitters, alongside maintenance professionals like plumbers, heating and air conditioning installers, and system administrators. Additionally, it features transport-related occupations like truck drivers and underlayers, as well as creative roles such as programmers and user interface designers. This diverse array of professions highlights the breadth of expertise required across various industries and sectors.
How do I go about getting a Seasonal Work Permit?
Step 1: Dive into the Adventure with a Labor Market Test
Alright, fellow explorers! Before we embark on our seasonal work permit quest in Croatia, let's check if we need to perform a labor market test. If your situation isn't exempt, fire up your request to HZZ through the online "Test tržišta rada" (Labor Market Test) service. Get ready for some online chatter with HZZ and keep an ear out for those occasional phone calls—they might want a bit more info. Find your HZZ office using the link provided.
Step 2: Assemble Your Documentation Squad
Now that we've got our bearings, it's time to gather the essential documents for our seasonal work permit application at MUP. Think of it as preparing your travel essentials, but for paperwork. Grab the application form (Obrazac 2a or Obrazac 9a), a passport copy with extra validity, and an employment contract that doubles as a health insurance and financial means voucher.
There's more to pack—background check, translated educational proof, competence certificates, work experience nods, and, if your employee is a pro in a regulated gig, a nod from the foreign professional qualification hall of fame. Don't forget the deets on your accommodation, verified by a lease agreement or its cool equivalent.
Remember, any foreign documents need to be officially translated and stamped with the Croatian seal of approval.
Step 3: Apply for Your Seasonal Work Permit - The Grand Entrance
Got your labor market test green light from HZZ? Fantastic! You can now apply for your seasonal work permit within the next 90 days through the "Radne dozvole" (Work Permits) online service. No labor market test? No problem! Just shoot an email over to MUP following the guidelines for your employee's future residence.
Looking for MUP's dwelling places and email addresses? Seek no more, check them out in this guide.
Step 4: Time to Unleash the Waiting Game
You've applied, and now it's MUP's turn to do a little background check. They're checking if your future employee is as cool as they seem and won't be causing any chaos in Croatia. If MUP needs more info, they'll contact you by email or phone call. If all is well, MUP will affirm you with a seasonal work and stay permit, and they'll let you know via the modern-day owl delivery service (email or phone).
Step 5: Pay the Toll
Every adventure has its costs, right? For our seasonal work permit, there's an administration fee to be paid. Check out the map of administrative costs here. Once you've got your monies ready, show proof of payment to MUP when claiming your seasonal work permit.
Step 6: Enlist Your Employee with HZZO - Health Insurance Headquarters
Now that you've conquered the permit peaks, it's time to ensure your employee is covered in the health insurance realm. Head over to HZZO and get the lowdown on signing up for state health insurance with our trusty guide.
And hey, for those seeking extra protection, explore other insurance realms like car insurance, travel insurance, dodatno health insurance, and dopunsko health insurance. It's the final touch on your epic journey to a seamless seasonal work experience in Croatia!
Will accommodation be provided?
Ensuring comfortable housing is our priority for seasonal workers in Croatia. We believe that a pleasant living environment contributes to a positive work experience. Adequate accommodation, to us, means more than just a space; it's about providing a home away from home.
In our commitment to your well-being, we ensure that your living space meets high standards. We guarantee a solid and sanitary facility, separated from living and sleeping areas. Water, electricity, and heating are essentials, but don't worry about heating during the summer months. Our spaces adhere to health and hygiene regulations, ensuring your safety and comfort.
Up to six individuals can share a space, each with at least 14 m2, encompassing sleeping quarters, food preparation, and sanitary facilities. We respect the need for privacy, ensuring separate sleeping areas for women and men, unless you're a family living together.
When it comes to cost, we are considerate. Accommodation expenses won't exceed 30% of your net salary, and we assure you that deductions won't be automatic. If accommodation is provided for free, we'll provide you with a document outlining the conditions.
For a seamless application process, a signed accommodation statement is required when applying for a seasonal work permit. We understand that circumstances may change, and if you decide to switch accommodations, notify the police within 8 days.
We appreciate seasoned workers who have been with us before. If you've held a seasonal work permit in the last five years, you won't need to furnish proof of accommodation during your application. Your comfort matters to us, and we want your stay to be as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Am I able to extend my working permit?
Great news for seasonal workers! Now, you have the opportunity to extend your seasonal work permit every 6 months, allowing you to continue with the same employer or explore exciting opportunities with a new one. Just make sure to showcase your financial stability by providing salary details in proportion to the previous permit's validity.
To make the most of this extension, remember to submit your application at least 15 days before your current permit expires. The good news doesn't end there – the police will swiftly make a decision within just 3 days!
If you're planning to stick with your current employer, submit your extension request based on your place of residence. Alternatively, if you're ready for a new adventure with a different employer, conveniently submit your request online. Get ready to embark on the next chapter of your seasonal work journey!
