How to Obtain Croatian Citizenship by Residency in 2025
Croatia offers foreign nationals the opportunity to obtain citizenship through residency. This process is governed by the Croatian Citizenship Act, and the National Citizenship Authority (Državni ured za upravne poslove) manages applications.
This guide will walk you through the 8-year residency requirement, language proficiency test, documents needed, and step-by-step instructions for applying for Croatian citizenship in 2025.
Eligibility Criteria for Croatian Citizenship
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | 8 years of continuous legal residence |
| Language | Proficiency in Croatian language required |
| Integration | Familiarity with Croatian culture and laws |
| Income | Proof of financial stability (work, pension, etc.) |
| Criminal Record | No criminal record that disqualifies the applicant |
| Dual Citizenship | Dual citizenship is allowed under certain conditions |
Residency Requirements Explained
- Standard Track: 8 years of legal continuous residence
- Spouse Track: 3 years of legal residence for spouses of Croatian citizens
- Special Cases: Children of Croatian origin or those with humanitarian reasons may apply sooner
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Ensure that you meet the residency and language requirements
- Prepare all necessary documentation (proof of income, residence, etc.)
- Submit your application to the National Citizenship Authority
- Attend an interview and pass the language test (if required)
- Wait for the decision and oath ceremony
Documents Required
- Valid passport and residence permit
- Proof of legal residence (rental agreement, employment contract, etc.)
- Birth certificate (translated and notarized)
- Proof of Croatian language proficiency
- Proof of financial stability (employment contract, tax returns, etc.)
- Criminal record from Croatia and country of origin
Fees & Costs (2025)
| Item | Estimated Fee | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | HRK 300 (~€40) | Paid during application submission |
| Document Translation/Notarization | HRK 100–500 | Depending on document quantity and translation service |
| Language Course (optional) | HRK 1,000–2,500 | Language prep courses for citizenship interview |
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure continuous residency with no major absences
- Start language learning early, especially for the interview
- Consult with legal experts if you have questions about documents or eligibility
- Check with the National Citizenship Authority for updates on processing times
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I have dual citizenship?
Yes. Croatia allows dual citizenship, but you must be aware of the laws in your other country of citizenship.
2. Do I need to take a Croatian language test?
If you have resided in Croatia for over 5 years, a basic Croatian language proficiency is required. An interview may suffice.
3. How long does the citizenship process take?
The entire process can take from 12 months to several years, depending on various factors such as application volume.
4. Can I apply from abroad?
Yes, you can apply through Croatian consulates if you reside abroad and meet the residency criteria.
Useful Resources
Ready to Become a Croatian Citizen?
Visa Falcon can help you navigate the application process with legal and language support.
Get Expert Help