Employment of foreigners within the territory of the Republic of Croatia is strictly regulated by the Employment of Foreign Nationals Act.

All foreigners must obtain a work permit in order to seek or accept employment in Croatia. Work permits are generally issued to foreign nationals who meet one or all of the following criteria:

- have obtained permission for permanent residency
- can provide proof that they will be involved in specific activities such as foreign investment, or other areas of business deemed beneficial by the government
- intend to conduct professional activities as set forth in technology transfer treaties or long-term production cooperation treaties

There are two types of work permit:

The business permit is for foreign nationals who will be self-employed, the majority owner in a business, or a representative of a foreign company with a contract to provide services to a Croatian company and who will be paid by the foreign company.

Business permits can be issued for two years duration and include permission to reside in Croatia as a temporary resident.

To receive a standard work permit, a Croatian corporation must apply on behalf of the foreign national. Once the permit is approved, the foreign national must then apply for a temporary residence permit. The penalty for foreign nationals who do not apply for the required residence or work permits in a timely manner can include fines and deportation.

Required documentation:

- 2 passport-style photographs
- valid passport and photocopy of passport
- birth certificate
- proof of sufficient funds (100 Euro/day or credit cards, bank statement etc.)
- criminal record check (no more than 6 months prior to application)
- proof of health insurance
- letter from employer
- proof of accommodation