Croatia – Banking

What are the main banks in Croatia?

As of November 2025, Croatia’s banking landscape comprises 19 authorised commercial banks, complemented by one housing savings bank and one branch of a foreign credit institution — the result of years of consolidation driven by mergers and evolving regulatory requirements. The vast majority of these institutions operate as universal banks, delivering a full range of retail and corporate financial services.

The sector is heavily concentrated at the top: the three largest banks collectively account for approximately 60% of total consolidated banking assets, with each holding a market share exceeding 15%. All three of these leading institutions are backed by foreign capital. Below is a summary of the most prominent players:

Zagrebačka banka holds the position of Croatia’s largest bank by total assets — in 2024, its total assets stood at 21,171 million EUR, translating to a 25.16% market share. The bank is a subsidiary of Italy’s UniCredit Group.

Privredna banka Zagreb was founded in 1966 and became part of Italy’s Intesa Sanpaolo Group in 2007. It functions as a universal commercial bank, providing services to private individuals, small and medium-sized businesses, and large corporate clients alike.

Erste & Steiermärkische Bank has been present in Croatia since 1991 and has built a strong market position over the decades. As a member of Erste Group — one of the leading financial services networks in Central and Eastern Europe — the bank operates an extensive infrastructure of 114 branches and 720 ATMs, offering everything from personal and business banking to investment products.

Hrvatska poštanska banka (HPB) is 77% owned by the Republic of Croatia and has been active for more than 30 years, currently serving over 580,000 clients. Through its “Banka u pošti” initiative, run in partnership with Hrvatska pošta, HPB has developed the widest distribution network for banking services in the country, with access points at more than 200 post office locations.

Raiffeisen Banka is part of Austria’s RBA group and holds the distinction of being the first bank in Croatia to be capitalised with foreign investment. According to the most recently available data, it maintains 62 branches spanning 36 cities throughout the country.

All licensed Croatian banks are regulated and supervised by the Croatian National Bank (HNB), which maintains a full and current register of authorised credit institutions on its website. Always confirm a bank’s latest contact information and service details either directly with the institution itself or by consulting the HNB register.

Do any major international banks operate in Croatia?

Based on data compiled by the European Banking Authority, as of October 2025 there were no branches of banks headquartered outside the European Economic Area — referred to as “third-country branches” under EU terminology — operating in Croatia. In practical terms, this means that well-known global retail banks with headquarters outside the EU, such as HSBC, Barclays, or Citibank, do not maintain retail branch operations in Croatia.

Any non-EU banking entity wishing to conduct significant operations in Croatia must obtain a full licence from the HNB, placing it under the same prudential obligations as domestic institutions — covering capital adequacy, risk management frameworks, and anti-money laundering compliance. The demanding nature of this authorisation process, combined with the considerable compliance requirements, has largely deterred non-EU banking groups from establishing a direct retail presence, even though Croatia has been an EU member since 2013 and joined the eurozone in 2023.

It is worth noting, however, that the banks which do dominate the Croatian market are themselves international in nature. The country’s three largest institutions are all foreign-owned: Zagrebačka banka operates under Italy’s UniCredit Group, Privredna Banka Zagreb belongs to Italy’s Intesa Sanpaolo Group, and Erste & Steiermärkische Bank is a member of Austria’s Erste Group. If you currently hold an account with one of these parent groups in another EU country, it is advisable to contact them directly to find out whether cross-border account arrangements or streamlined onboarding processes might be available to you in Croatia.

The composition of the banking market can evolve over time. Always verify the current status of any institution’s Croatian operations directly with the bank concerned, or consult the authoritative register maintained by the Croatian National Bank (HNB).

Do banks in Croatia offer accounts or services specifically for expats?

There are no legal restrictions preventing foreign nationals from opening a bank account in Croatia. The majority of the country’s principal banks offer account types capable of meeting the needs of non-residents and newly arrived expats, though the specific features and any associated limitations differ from one institution to another.

Until you secure a Croatian residency permit, you will typically be eligible only for a non-resident account. Even so, such an account covers the fundamental banking services required when you first arrive in the country. OTP Bank Croatia, for instance, provides a dedicated non-resident account that allows you to freely deposit and withdraw cash in both local and foreign currency, with access to mobile banking and ATMs, though certain restrictions on foreign currency transactions may apply.

Once your residency permit is in hand, the range of accounts available to you broadens considerably, bringing you broadly in line with the options open to Croatian citizens — including current accounts, foreign currency accounts, savings products, payment cards, and student accounts.

Some institutions have established dedicated facilities with expats in mind. Zagrebačka banka, for example, operates a Centre for Non-Residents, where you can open an account, arrange online banking access, consult with specialists on investment and business opportunities in Croatia, and seek guidance on other financial matters.

Accounts can be held in euros, foreign currency, or as multi-currency accounts. At Zagrebačka banka, for instance, account-holders can hold balances in AUD, BAM, CAD, CHF, DKK, EUR, GBP, JPY, NOK, RSD, SEK, and USD.

Holders of temporary or permanent residence face fewer restrictions overall, while those without residency status may still open accounts, albeit with certain limitations on account categories or available services. Non-resident accounts may also attract higher fees or restricted access to certain banking products, such as credit facilities. It is always advisable to verify current eligibility criteria and terms directly with individual banks, as these are subject to change.

What are typical bank opening hours in Croatia?

Standard banking hours in Croatia run from Monday to Friday, between 8am and 7pm. Some branches open on Saturday mornings, though the majority are closed on Sundays and Croatian public holidays. Opening times can vary significantly between individual branches, particularly in smaller towns or rural areas where more limited schedules may be in operation.

In larger urban centres such as Zagreb, Split, and Rijeka, branches situated within shopping centres may observe extended weekday hours. On the other hand, branches in smaller coastal towns or island communities — especially outside the busy summer tourism season — may operate on reduced timetables. It is always worth checking the hours of your specific branch on the bank’s official website before making a trip.

All major banks also provide digital services that allow customers to handle their finances remotely. Erste Bank, for example, places a strong emphasis on its online and mobile platforms. Telephone banking is similarly offered by the main banks as an alternative to branch visits for routine queries and transactions. With fully featured mobile apps now available from every major Croatian bank, everyday tasks — such as bill payments, fund transfers, and balance enquiries — can be completed at any hour without setting foot in a branch.

What do expats need to know about the banking system in Croatia?

Banking is a cornerstone of Croatia’s economy — the sector is fundamentally sound and has demonstrated resilience through economic downturns. Croatia’s banking environment is more open to cross-border activity than that of many countries outside the EU. Following Croatia’s entry into the European banking supervision mechanism in 2020 — ahead of its euro adoption in January 2023 — institutions are classified by the European Central Bank (ECB) as either significant or less significant, with these designations reviewed on a regular basis.

Currency: Croatia completed its transition to the euro as its official national currency on 1 January 2023, at a fixed conversion rate of €1 = 7.5345 Croatian kuna. This brings Croatia into full alignment with the broader eurozone and streamlines financial management for those relocating from other euro-area countries. Euros circulate freely within the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), so there are no everyday foreign exchange controls to contend with.

SEPA membership: The Croatian National Bank sits within the European System of Central Banks (ESCB) and Croatia participates in the EU’s Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA). As a result, sending or receiving euros to and from other SEPA countries is typically swift and inexpensive — comparable to a domestic transfer within many EU nations. This represents a meaningful advantage over banking systems outside the EU, where cross-border transfers are often slower and more costly.

Deposit protection: Funds held in current accounts, giro accounts, and savings accounts at credit institutions in the Republic of Croatia are insured through the Croatian Agency for Deposit Insurance up to a ceiling of €100,000, regardless of the number of accounts held, the value of the funds, the currency in which they are held, or the location of the payment accounts. This is broadly consistent with the €100,000 guarantee under the EU Deposit Guarantee Schemes Directive, the £85,000 protection offered by the UK’s FSCS, and the $250,000 cover provided by the US FDIC. In exceptional circumstances, a supplementary insurance amount of €30,000 applies to funds arising from events such as the sale of real estate, marriage, divorce, retirement, dismissal, disability, illness, or death, provided those funds were deposited within three months of the qualifying event. As of 2025, these figures are current — always verify the latest limits with the Croatian National Bank (HNB) or the Croatian Deposit Insurance Agency (CDIA).

Language: Many Croatian banks are foreign-owned, and institutions such as Erste enjoy considerable popularity among expats owing to their user-friendly interfaces, capable mobile apps, and quality customer support. English-language options are available on the apps and websites of several major banks. That said, not all branches and telephone support lines operate in languages other than Croatian. Familiarity with some basic Croatian phrases, or the option to bring a Croatian-speaking companion to the branch, can be genuinely helpful.

Financial regulation: The key bodies responsible for maintaining financial stability in Croatia are the Croatian National Bank (CNB/HNB), the Croatian Financial Services Supervisory Agency (HANFA), the Ministry of Finance, and the Croatian Deposit Insurance Agency (CDIA). If you have concerns about a bank’s conduct or wish to understand your consumer rights, the HNB’s consumer protection resources are an excellent first port of call.

How Do I Open a Bank Account in Croatia as an Expat?

Establishing a local bank account is one of the most important practical steps for expats settling in Croatia. Having a local account makes everyday financial life far easier — from receiving salary payments and settling utility bills to making purchases — while helping you avoid the extra costs that often accompany reliance on a foreign bank account. The procedure broadly mirrors that of other EU countries, but there are several Croatia-specific requirements worth understanding in advance.

1. Obtain your OIB (Osobni identifikacijski broj)
   The OIB is Croatia’s personal tax identification number, issued by the Ministry of Finance. It can be obtained through your local tax office or via a notary. Performing a similar function to a Social Security number, it is an absolute prerequisite for banking, investing, conducting business, or taking up residence in Croatia. Securing your OIB should be the very first item on your to-do list, as virtually every bank will require it before processing an account application.
2. Choose your bank
   International institutions such as Erste Bank and UniCredit (Zagrebačka banka) offer services that may feel familiar to expats with experience of banking elsewhere in Europe, while a thorough comparison of account fees, currency options, and customer service standards will help you identify the bank best suited to your circumstances. Also consider how conveniently located the nearest branches and ATMs are, how well-regarded the mobile app is, and whether English-language support is on offer.
3. Gather your documents
   As a foreign national, you will typically need to present: a valid passport as proof of identity; proof of your current address (such as a utility bill, tenancy agreement, or recent bank statement). You may also be asked to provide evidence of employment or income — for example, a letter from your employer or recent payslips. If you intend to stay long-term, the bank may request your residence permit. You will also need a dokaznica, which is a document demonstrating a legitimate reason for opening the account — most commonly property ownership or employment. If the reason is employment, you will generally need to present your work contract as well.
4. Visit a branch in person
   The vast majority of Croatian banks require applicants to attend a branch in person to complete the account-opening process. To make this experience as smooth as possible, many major banks employ staff who speak English and German. While in-branch attendance is the norm, a small number of institutions do offer online account opening for certain account types — it is worth confirming this with your chosen bank before travelling to a branch.
5. Complete the application form and make an initial deposit
   You will be required to fill out the bank’s account application form. In most cases, the process requires little more than valid identification and a modest initial deposit, though some banks may additionally ask for proof of your Croatian residency, particularly when opening a giro account. Minimum deposit requirements vary between institutions — check the current figures directly with each bank, as these are liable to change.
6. Receive your card and set up online banking
   After your current account is opened, your bank card will be sent by post and should arrive within approximately seven days, accompanied by a PIN that gives you access to cash at virtually any ATM in the country. Your account will generally also be accessible via the bank’s online and mobile banking platforms as soon as it is activated.
7. Consider a non-resident account if you are not yet a resident
   If your residency permit has not yet been issued, you are still eligible to open an account — it will be classified as a non-resident account. Your OIB is still required in this case. A non-resident account provides access to core banking services and can be converted to a full resident account once your residency status is formalised.

The time needed to open a bank account in Croatia varies depending on the institution involved. In many cases, the account can be opened on the day of your visit and your bank details provided immediately, but in others the full verification process may take between five and ten business days. For the most up-to-date documentation requirements and any applicable minimum deposit thresholds, consult each bank’s official website or visit a branch directly. The Croatian National Bank (HNB) also provides useful consumer guidance on its website.

What banking and payment apps are widely used in Croatia?

Croatia has a mature and well-developed digital banking environment. Every major bank offers its own mobile application, and a number of international fintech platforms have also established a strong following alongside traditional banking accounts.

Mobile banking apps from local banks: All of the principal banks provide online and mobile banking platforms. These are particularly handy for bill payments, for example, since you can scan the QR code printed on any payment slip and have all the relevant payment details populated automatically — you simply authorise the transaction and submit it. This QR-code payment feature is a notably convenient element of Croatian digital banking that sets it apart from some systems encountered abroad.

Revolut: Revolut has built a strong following in Croatia in recent years, largely due to its competitive fees on transfers and currency exchanges. Transfer speeds vary depending on the destination — some are instantaneous, while others may take a day or two. Revolut is fully operational in Croatia and functions as a licensed bank under EU regulation. Note that deposits held with Revolut Bank UAB are protected by the Lithuanian deposit insurance scheme rather than Croatia’s own — always consult Revolut’s current terms and verify deposit protection details at revolut.com.

Wise: Wise provides multi-currency accounts enabling you to hold, send, and receive funds in a wide range of currencies. It also offers local bank account details for receiving payments in various countries, which can be especially advantageous for expats conducting financial activity across borders. Wise is particularly well suited to anyone who regularly transfers money internationally, as its exchange rates typically compare favourably to those offered by conventional banks, and it supports holdings in over 50 currencies.

N26 and other neobanks: For those who are only visiting Croatia temporarily or planning a short stay, digital financial services such as Wise, Revolut, and N26 may prove more practical than opening a traditional account. N26 is a licensed EU bank and is available in Croatia. PayPal is also widely accepted for online transactions and peer-to-peer transfers.

Regulatory note: All digital banks and payment platforms operating in Croatia under an EU banking or e-money licence fall within the European banking union’s supervisory framework. However, deposit protection arrangements vary according to the country in which the platform is incorporated. Always review the terms and conditions of any fintech service thoroughly before treating it as your principal financial account. For a current list of regulated entities in Croatia, refer to the Croatian National Bank (HNB).

How can expats manage money between Croatia and their home country?

As a member of the EU’s Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), Croatia enables euro transfers to and from other SEPA countries to be processed as domestic transactions — typically at minimal or no additional cost, and settled within one business day. If your financial activity involves moving euros between Croatia and another SEPA country, the process is both straightforward and economical.

International (non-SEPA) transfers: Croatian banks tend to levy relatively high charges on international transfers to destinations outside Europe. If you regularly send or receive money involving countries outside the SEPA zone — such as Canada, Australia, the United States, or the United Kingdom following Brexit — it is worth comparing the cost of your Croatian bank’s wire transfer offering against that of specialist money transfer providers.

Transfer services: Among the fastest options available are Revolut and Wise, though a suitable solution exists for most needs and preferences. A bank transfer remains one of the most reliable and cost-efficient ways to move money into Croatia. Services such as MoneyGram or Wise also offer fast processing and low fees. For amounts up to approximately €10,000, these platforms generally perform very well. For larger sums — such as those involved in a property transaction — a conventional wire transfer through a bank is usually more appropriate. Although the fees are higher, large amounts can be moved in a single transaction, typically clearing within three business days.

Exchange rates: When assessing the competitiveness of an exchange rate you have been quoted, cross-reference it against the current rates published by the Croatian National Bank (HNB), which are available on the HNB’s official website.

Reporting requirements: Croatia adheres to EU rules governing the reporting of significant cash movements and financial transactions. If you are transferring substantial sums into or out of Croatia, or holding considerable assets abroad, you may have reporting obligations to the Croatian tax authority (Porezna uprava). As a general principle, EU anti-money laundering regulations require banks across all member states to flag transactions that appear unusual — this is standard practice rather than anything specific to Croatia. For advice tailored to your individual situation, seek guidance from a licensed Croatian tax adviser or accountant, and consult the latest information published by the Croatian Tax Administration. Always verify the current thresholds and requirements directly, as these are subject to change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Croatian bank account before I arrive in Croatia?

Croatian banks most commonly require applicants to attend a branch in person to open an account. That said, some institutions do permit foreigners to initiate the process online by submitting the necessary documents and completing a form provided by the bank, although this option is not universally available. For business accounts in particular, your physical presence or that of a locally authorised representative is often mandatory. It is advisable to contact your chosen bank to clarify their specific requirements before making travel arrangements.

What is the OIB, and how do I get one?

The OIB (Osobni identifikacijski broj) is Croatia’s personal tax identification number, issued by the Ministry of Finance. It can be obtained at your local tax office or through a notary. In terms of its function, it is comparable to a tax file number in Australia or a National Insurance number in the UK, and it is a legal requirement for anyone intending to work, open a bank account, or engage in official financial transactions in Croatia. You should aim to apply for your OIB as early in the relocation process as possible.

What is the deposit guarantee limit in Croatia?

Funds held in accounts at credit institutions in the Republic of Croatia are insured by the Croatian Agency for Deposit Insurance up to a maximum of €100,000 per depositor, irrespective of the number of accounts held, the total value of the funds, the currency, or where the payment accounts are maintained. As of 2025, this protection extends to current accounts, giro accounts, and savings accounts. Always confirm the current limit with the Croatian National Bank or the Croatian Deposit Insurance Agency (CDIA).

Do Croatian banks charge fees for current accounts?

Fee structures vary between banks and across different account types. Student accounts, for example, are generally offered free of charge. While opening a current account typically does not incur a fee, ongoing maintenance charges usually apply and differ depending on the institution. Some banks also levy a fee upon account closure. Monthly maintenance fees for standard account packages at major banks typically fall in the range of approximately €1 to €5 per month as of 2025, though you should verify current tariffs directly with each bank.

What currency does Croatia use, and can I hold foreign currency accounts?

The euro has been Croatia’s official currency since January 2023. Accounts can be denominated in euros, in foreign currency, or as a multi-currency account. Most major banks allow customers to maintain balances in widely used currencies such as USD, GBP, CHF, and AUD alongside their euro account — a practical feature for expats who continue to earn income or hold assets in a foreign currency.

Are Revolut and Wise safe to use in Croatia?

In addition to holding a traditional local bank account, digital financial services including Wise, Revolut, N26, and PayPal are readily accessible in Croatia and support payments, international transfers, and multi-currency account management. Both Wise and Revolut hold EU-level regulatory authorisations and are widely used throughout the country. However, neither is covered by the Croatian deposit guarantee scheme. Review the deposit protection terms of each platform on their official websites before relying on them as your primary financial account.

Will I face language barriers at Croatian banks?

The majority of branches at larger banks employ English-speaking staff — and in some cases German-speaking staff as well — which generally makes the experience accessible for expats. Many of the principal banks also offer English-language versions of their mobile apps and websites. That said, certain documents may only be available in Croatian, so having access to a translator or a Croatian-speaking contact is a sensible precaution, particularly when dealing with more complex transactions or reviewing account terms and conditions.

Where can I find the official list of licensed banks in Croatia?

The official register of licensed banks in Croatia is published on the website of the Croatian National Bank. The Croatian National Bank (HNB) at hnb.hr is the definitive source for all regulatory information, consumer guidance, and the authorised register of credit institutions. Always consult this resource to confirm a bank’s current licensed status before proceeding to open an account.