Planning to make Šibenik your new home? If you’re thinking about bringing your car or other large personal belongings with you, it’s important to understand the importation process and associated costs. Whether you’re moving from another EU country or a non-EU nation, there are certain rules and procedures you’ll need to follow to ensure a smooth transition.
Here’s a detailed guide focused specifically on Šibenik, covering everything from the paperwork for your car to exemptions from customs duties and where to find help locally.
What Counts as Personal Belongings in Croatia?
In Croatia, personal belongings (osobna imovina) are defined as items that are used for personal, non-commercial purposes. These typically include:
- Furniture
- Household appliances (e.g., refrigerators, washing machines)
- Electrical devices
- Hobby tools (e.g., art supplies, musical instruments)
- Small agricultural equipment (e.g., lawnmowers, small tractors)
- Cars, trailers, boats
- Pets and livestock
- Up to one month’s supply of food and other household items
However, the following items are not considered personal belongings:
- Alcohol and tobacco products
- Commercial vehicles
- Tools used for professional or business activities
Exemptions from Customs Fees: How to Apply
If you’re moving to Šibenik from outside the EU, you may be able to exempt your personal belongings, including your car, from import customs duties, provided certain conditions are met:
- You’ve lived in a non-EU country for at least 12 months before moving to Croatia.
- Your belongings have been in use for at least 6 months prior to your relocation.
To apply for this exemption, you must submit a formal request to the Šibenik Customs Office (Carina). The request, called Zahtjev za oslobođenje od plaćanja carine, should include:
- Proof of your 12-month residence abroad (e.g., from an employer or government body)
- Documentation showing the items have been in use for at least 6 months
- A list of your personal belongings
- Your Croatian residence permit (must be valid for at least one year)
- A statement detailing your relocation date
Once approved, you’ll be allowed to import your belongings within 12 months from your move. In certain circumstances, such as natural disasters, the deadline can be extended.
Where to Find the Šibenik Customs Office
The Šibenik Customs Office handles all matters related to the importation of goods, including vehicles and personal belongings. If you’re bringing items into Šibenik, you’ll need to visit this office for processing.
- Šibenik Customs Office
Obala hrvatske mornarice 2, 22000, Šibenik,
Importing Your Car to Šibenik
If you’re bringing your car with you to Croatia, several factors will determine what taxes you need to pay and the procedures involved. You must report your car to the Šibenik Customs Office within 15 days of entering Croatia. The taxes you’ll need to consider depend on where the car is coming from and whether you’re a Croatian citizen or not.
Taxes on Imported Cars
There are three main taxes you may face when importing a car to Croatia:
- Customs Tax (Carina)
This tax applies if you’re importing a car from a non-EU country. It’s calculated based on the car’s purchase value and emissions. If you’re moving from the EU or are returning as a Croatian citizen, you might be exempt from this tax. - Value-Added Tax (VAT / PDV)
Croatia charges a 25% VAT on most goods, including imported cars. Whether you have to pay VAT depends on your car’s origin and your citizenship. Generally, if you’re importing from outside the EU, you’ll need to pay VAT. However, if you’re moving from an EU country, you may be exempt. - Acquisition Tax (Trošarina)
All personal vehicles imported into Croatia are subject to an acquisition tax. The amount depends on several factors, such as the vehicle’s age, emissions, fuel type, and purchase value. This tax must be paid within 15 days of import.
Homologation: Ensuring Your Car Meets Croatian Standards
In addition to paying taxes, imported cars must go through a homologation process to ensure they meet Croatian safety and environmental standards. This involves a technical inspection at one of the authorized testing stations, such as those operated by the Croatian Automobile Club (HAK) or the Croatian Vehicle Centre.
Once your car passes homologation, it can be legally driven on Croatian roads. For vehicles older than 20 years, an alternative homologation process may be available, although non-compliant cars cannot be driven.
Registering Your Car in Croatia
If you’re planning to stay in Croatia for more than 6 months, you’ll need to register your car with the local authorities in Šibenik. This process includes obtaining Croatian license plates and paying any associated fees. However, if you’re staying for less than 6 months, you can drive with your foreign license plates during your stay.
Croatian Driver’s License: What You Need to Know
If you’re a third-country citizen, you can use your foreign driver’s license for up to 1 year after arriving in Croatia. After this period, you’ll need to exchange your foreign license for a Croatian one, or face a fine. If you stay in Croatia for longer than 6 months and have a permanent or temporary residency, this exchange becomes mandatory.
Things to Consider Before Moving to Šibenik
Moving to Šibenik comes with many exciting opportunities, but it’s essential to plan ahead. Here are a few things you should consider before you relocate:
- Visa and Residency Permits: Make sure you understand the visa requirements for your nationality and ensure that you can legally stay in Croatia.
- Cost of Living: Research housing prices, utility costs, and general living expenses in Šibenik.
- Healthcare: Familiarize yourself with the Croatian healthcare system and determine whether you need private insurance.
- Taxes and Finances: Understand the tax system in Croatia and how it applies to expats, including income tax, property tax, and social contributions.
Why Šibenik Is a Great Place to Call Home
Situated on the stunning Adriatic coast, Šibenik offers a beautiful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its medieval architecture, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and proximity to national parks like Krka and Kornati, Šibenik is an ideal location for anyone seeking a peaceful yet vibrant lifestyle.
Whether you’re drawn to its charming old town, the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, or the incredible natural surroundings, you’ll find that Šibenik offers a high quality of life in a stunning coastal setting. The town’s well-connected infrastructure also makes it easy to travel to other parts of Croatia and Europe.
Conclusion: Smooth Sailing to Šibenik
With the right preparation, your move to Šibenik can be an exciting and smooth process. By understanding the importation rules for cars and personal belongings and knowing where to go for the paperwork, you’ll be able to focus on what matters most: settling into your new life in this beautiful coastal town. From handling customs procedures to adjusting to life in Croatia, this guide will help you navigate the logistics of your move with confidence.
