Understanding the Different Croatian Visas
UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF VISAS THAT CROATIA OFFERS
Do I need a visa to visit Croatia as a US citizen?
Many US citizens and other world travelers are wanting to know if they need a visa to visit Croatia.. That’s probably because more and more people are discovering the delights of visiting Croatia.
Answering this question accurately depends on which country you are currently a citizen of.
This guide gives you the answers you’re looking for. We have included updates following its 2023 Schengen Area integration—so you have everything you need to know about the Croatian visa process below.
Types of Croatian Visas
Croatia issues three main types of visas, each serving different purposes and durations of stay:
- Short-Stay Schengen Visa (C Visa)
- Valid for up to 90 days within any 180-day period
- Purposes include tourism, business, and family visits
- Can be single or multiple entry
- Maximum validity of 5 years
- Long-Stay National Visa (D Visa)
- Valid for stays exceeding 90 days
- Required for work, study, or family reunification
- Single or multiple entry options
- Maximum validity of 6 months
- Airport Transit Visa (A Visa)
- For transit through Croatian airports
- No entry into Croatian territory permitted
- Usually valid for 6 months
- Required only for specific nationalities
Croatia Travel Visa Requirements and Application
Essential Documentation
All visa applications require:
- Valid passport (minimum 3 months beyond intended stay)
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Completed visa application form
- Proof of travel insurance
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Travel itinerary
- Accommodation details
Additional Requirements by Visa Type
Short-Stay Visa (C Visa):
- Proof of travel purpose
- Return ticket reservation
- Bank statements (last 3 months)
- Employment verification
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
Long-Stay Visa (D Visa):
- Proof of approved temporary residence
- Work permit (if applicable)
- Study enrollment (for students)
- Housing contract
- Criminal background check
Special Considerations for US Citizens
While US citizens don’t need a visa for Croatia for stays under 90 days, they must still meet certain requirements:
- Passport valid for at least three months beyond planned stay
- Proof of sufficient funds (approximately €70 per day)
- Evidence of accommodation
- Return ticket or onward travel documentation
- Travel insurance covering the Schengen area
Croatian Visa Application Timeline and Fees
Processing Times
Processing a Croatian visa usually takes around 15 days. But that number can go up to 45 days in special cases.
Visa Fees
- Short-stay visa: €80
- Long-stay visa: €93
- Airport transit visa: €60
Service fees may apply at visa centers
Special Cases and Exemptions
Border Visa Issuance
In exceptional cases, Croatia may issue visas at border crossings for:
- Emergency situations
- Humanitarian grounds
- National interest reasons
Visa Fee Exemptions
You can sometimes get fees waived, especially if you fall under one of these categories:
- Children under 12
- Students and researchers
- Family members of EU citizens
- Diplomatic passport holders
Recent Changes and Updates
There have been some major changes to the law regarding visiting Croatia in recent years. That’s because in January 2023 they officially joined the Schengen Area. This is a group of 29 countries in Europe that have no border controls between each other.
This creates an extremely wide area of free movement, as well as other issues. So what exactly does that membership mean for travelers going to Croatia? Here are the most important points:
- Time spent in Croatia counts toward the Schengen 90/180-day rule
- If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you can enter the Schengen area and stay in it for 90 days out of any 180-day period
- Unified visa requirements with other Schengen states
- Simplified transit procedures between member countries
Overstay Penalties
It always bears repeating that you should never overstay your visa, because going over your authorized period can result in several dire consequences, including:
- Fines ranging from €60 to €920
- Potential entry ban
- Difficulty obtaining future visas
- Possible deportation
Get a Croatian Visa
Whether you’re asking, “Do I need visa for Croatia?” or seeking specific information about Croatia travel visa requirements, understanding the current system is crucial.
As we’ve seen, the answer all depends on where you are coming from. But if you do need a visa, the application process is not so difficult, and there is always help.
For the most current information or assistance with visa applications, contact us for a free call today. Let’s go over your situation to see how we can help you get a Croatian visa or become a full-fledged citizen.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need a visa to travel to Croatia?
Most people coming from Western countries (like the US and Canada), a visa is not necessary for visits lasting less than 90 days.
Can I get a Croatia visa online?
Our clients typically find the easiest way to start the application is by using Croatia’s e-Visa portal. But you still have to visit a Croatian embassy, consulate, or visa center in person to provide biometric data and submit physical documents. Still, the online system initiates the process and reduces paperwork—so it’s usually worth getting it all started there.
Do US citizens need a visa for Croatia?
No, US citizens don’t need a visa to enter Croatia—as long as they stay no more than 90 days within a 180-day period. Note that the days your spend in other Schengen Area countries will also count toward that 90 days.
Though US citizens don’t need a visa to visit, they do need a passport valid for at least three months beyond their stay.
Does Croatia require a visa for longer stays?
Yes. You’ll need a long-stay (D) visa and residence permit, regardless of nationality, to stay longer than 90 days.
Do you need a visa for Croatia if you have a Schengen visa?
A valid Schengen visa lets you enter Croatia.
This page was last updated with help by Marco Permunian
Contact Us
Trying to confirm your eligibility? Learn if you qualify for Croatian citizenship by descent. Contact us at (213) 636-8110.
