Employment in Croatia for Ukrainians
Long-term work visa to Croatia for Ukrainians
If you plan to work in Croatia for a long period of time (more than 90 days), you will need a long-term work visa. This type of visa allows you to officially work and reside in the country legally.
What is a long-term work visa for Croatia?
A long-term work visa (or residence and work permit) gives the right to work and reside in Croatia for more than 90 days. The visa is issued on the basis of an invitation from a Croatian employer and is usually valid for the entire period of your contract.
Who can apply for a long-term work visa?
This type of visa is suitable for:
- Ukrainians who have received an invitation from a Croatian employer.
- Employees who enter into long-term employment contracts in such areas as tourism, construction, IT, medicine, etc.
- Specialists with in-demand professions that are in short supply in the local labor market.
Step-by-step instructions for obtaining a long-term work visa
1. Find an employer
You need to get a job offer and sign an employment contract with a Croatian company. The employer has to apply for a work permit for your employment.
Where to look for a job:
- The EURES portal (European platform with vacancies).
- Local employment agencies.
- Direct contacts with employers through their official websites.
2. Collect the necessary documents
To apply for a long-term work visa, you will need:
- Passport - valid for at least 6 months after the end of the contract.
- Employment contract - a formal contract with the employer that specifies the working conditions, salary, and duration of the contract.
- Health insurance - a policy with coverage of at least 30,000 euros.
- Completed application form for a long-term visa (available on the embassy's website).
- Proof of financial stability - a bank statement or other documents confirming your ability to support yourself in the first months.
- An invitation letter from your employer - a document stating your position, responsibilities, and duration of employment.
- Letter of guarantee - a confirmation from the employer that he/she assumes responsibility for you during your work.
- Photo - 35x45 mm in size, taken no later than 6 months ago.
- Certificate of no criminal record - issued in Ukraine and translated into Croatian.
Note: all documents must be translated into Croatian and notarized.
3. Submit the application
The application for a work and residence permit is usually submitted by the employer to the Ministry of the Interior of Croatia.
After the application is approved, you need to submit the package of documents to the Croatian Consulate in Ukraine or a visa center.
4. Pay the fees
The cost of obtaining a long-term work visa varies, but usually ranges from 100 to 150 euros. Check the amount directly with the consulate.
5. Wait for the decision
The processing time for a long-term visa application is approximately 1-3 months. The employer and the applicant are notified of the decision.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I change my employer after receiving a visa?
No, a long-term visa is issued for a specific employer. If you change your job, you need to apply for a new permit.
2. What should I do if my visa expires and I want to stay?
You can apply for an extension of your residence and work permit if your employment contract has been extended.
3. Can I bring my family with me?
Yes, you can invite your family members after obtaining a work permit, but you will need to apply for separate documents for each family member.
4. Why do Ukrainians choose Croatia for long-term work?
- High wages: even in unskilled areas, earnings are much higher than in Ukraine.
- Easy start for specialists: the demand for foreign workers makes it possible to quickly integrate into the labor market.
- Possibility of legalization: after several years of work, you can apply for permanent residence.
Contacts for obtaining a long-term visa to Croatia
Embassy of Croatia in Ukraine:
Address: 51/50 Sichovykh Striltsiv St., Kyiv.
Phone: +380 44 489 87 50
E-mail: [email protected]
Official website: mvep.gov.hr.
Visa centers in Ukraine
To make an appointment, check the addresses on the website of the official partner of the consulate.