Moving to Croatia as an expat or foreign resident is an exciting adventure, but navigating the visa and residency requirements can seem like a daunting task. This article breaks down everything you need to know about obtaining a visa, establishing residency, and staying in Šibenik, one of Croatia’s most beautiful and historically rich cities.
Visa and Residency Information for Croatia (Šibenik)
As of January 1, 2023, Croatia became a full member of the Schengen Area, meaning it applies Schengen visa rules for both short-term and long-term stays. Here’s a summary of the visa and residency information for foreigners planning to visit or live in Šibenik, Croatia.
Short-Stay Visa (Schengen Visa)
A short-stay visa allows visitors to stay in Croatia and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The visa is issued for:
- Tourist stays or business trips.
- Transit through international airports.
Application Process
- Apply for the visa 6 months before your trip, but no later than 15 days before the planned visit.
- Required Documents: Valid travel insurance, proof of accommodation, sufficient funds, and any supporting documents for the purpose of your stay.
Visa Validity and Extensions
- Short-stay visas can be extended for force majeure or humanitarian reasons without a fee. Extensions for other personal reasons incur a €30 fee.
- Extensions are only possible within the 90 days in 180 days limit for the Schengen area.
Long-Term Visa (Visa D)
A long-term visa is issued for stays longer than 90 days, typically for:
- Temporary residence permits for work, study, or family reunification.
- Visa D allows stays of up to 30 days while waiting for a temporary stay permit.
Important Notes:
- Insurance: Travel medical insurance is required for all types of visas and must cover the entire stay.
- Fee for Visa Extensions: Extensions for serious personal reasons cost €30; no fee for force majeure or humanitarian reasons.
- Appeals: If a visa extension is denied, an appeal can be filed within 15 days of the decision.
For more detailed information or specific requirements, visit the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia website.
For more information, please visit official website of the Ministry of the Interior (in English):
