FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ANSWERS TO THE MOST COMMON QUESTIONS WE RECEIVE ABOUT CROATIAN CITIZENSHIP
Can Americans hold dual citizenship in Croatia?
Yes. In Croatia, the best route to dual citizenship is by descent—but many of the other avenues of gaining citizenship in the country require renouncing former ties.
Do I qualify for Croatian dual citizenship?
To become a dual citizen means having a route to citizenship by descent. That requires being a direct descendant of Croatian citizens to be eligible.
How do I apply for dual citizenship in the US?
If you reside in the US, you’ll need to apply through your local Croatian consulate or embassy. Those abroad will need to complete their entire application process through here.
For more information, check out our complete guide here for how to apply for Croatian citizenship.
How can I get Croatian citizenship?
Through direct descent, marriage to a Croatian citizen, naturalization after 8 years’ residence, or by the government deeming your Croatian citizenship of special interest to the country (very rare).
You can find more info here for how to obtain Croatian citizenship.
What documents do I need for Croatian citizenship by descent?
Documentation will require Completed Application Form (Obrazac 1, 2, or 3)
- Resume/CV including reasons for applying
- Your Birth Certificate
- Birth Certificates of Croatian Ancestor(s)
- Documents Proving Direct Lineage (e.g., parents’, grandparents’ birth certificates)
- Notarized Proof of Identity (passport, ID card)
- Proof of Ancestor’s Croatian Citizenship (e.g., domovnica, old passport)
- Certificate Confirming Absence of Any Criminal Record
- Proof of Ancestor’s Emigration (e.g., ship manifest, immigration records)
For a more in-depth answer, check out our full guide here for applying for Croatian citizenship by descent.
How long does it take to get Croatian dual citizenship?
Croatian citizenship applications can take about 2-3 years to process.
How much does it cost to get Croatian citizenship?
When you get your decision, you’ll pay €139.36 for a positive decision and only €4.65 for a negative decision.
Can I live in Croatia as an American citizen?
Yes, but only if you are applying for citizenship by descent. That means you’ll need a parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent who was a Croatian citizen.
Are you a Croatian citizen if you are born in Croatia?
That depends. If you were born in Croatia and at least one parent was a Croatian citizen at the time, then you are a citizen. If you were found in Croatia as a child and your parents are unknown, then you are a citizen.
How long do you have to live in Croatia to become a citizen?
8 years of legal residence for standard naturalization. If you become married to a Croatian citizen or have a claim to citizenship by descent, you can usually avoid these residency requirements.
Is dual citizenship allowed in Croatia?
Generally, no—with the exception of citizenship by descent.
Can I get Croatian citizenship if my child is Croatian?
Not automatically, but it may help obtain residence permits and eventual naturalization.
Can I live in Croatia as an American citizen?
Yes, up to 90 days without a visa. Longer stays require a temporary residence permit, which is typically granted for work, study, or family reunification.
How long can a US citizen live in Croatia?
90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. Longer stays require residence permits.
What is the cost of living in Croatia?
The cost of living in Croatia is significantly lower than some Western countries, but it is slightly above the global average.
How can I get permanent residence in Croatia?
After 5 years of legal residence under any category, you can get your permanent residence status.
How do I establish residency in Croatia?
Register with local authorities within the first month. Obtain a temporary residence permit for stays over 90 days.
Is Croatia expensive to live in?
It depends on what you are used to. The average cost of living is 52% lower than in the US, but it is about average by global standards.
Can a US citizen work in Croatia?
Yes, with an appropriate work visa/permit. Job offers are typically required first.
What is a good salary in Croatia?
The average wage in Croatia is €1,700 per month.
Can Americans buy property in Croatia?
Yes! Croatia does not limit Americans or foreign nationals from buying property.
Can a US citizen retire in Croatia?
There aren’t retiree-specific rules for living in Croatia. But thanks to its affordability and natural beauty, many people choose to retire here.
Does Croatia use the euro?
Yes, Croatia is part of the Eurozone.
Does Croatia require a visa?
US citizens can stay 90 days visa-free. Longer stays require appropriate visas/permits.
