Long-Term Residence (Dugotrajno boravište)

Long-term residence (dugotrajno boravište) is a permanent immigration status granted to non-EU/EEA citizens who have legally and continuously lived in Croatia for five years. While often confused with "Permanent Residence" (stalni boravak), long-term residence is a specific status based on EU Directive 2003/109/EC that grants you extensive rights within Croatia and facilitates easier movement to other European Union member states.

This pathway is designed for foreign residents who have integrated into Croatian society through work, family, or long-term study and wish to secure their future in the country without the need for annual permit renewals.

The language exam is a mandatory component for most adults. It tests basic communication and literacy in the Latin script.

• Exemptions: You do not need to take the exam if you are under 15, over 65 (and not employed), have a disability that prevents testing, or if you completed primary, secondary, or higher education in the Croatian language within Croatia.

Once granted dugotrajno boravište, you transition from a "temporary guest" to a "permanent resident" with rights nearly identical to Croatian citizens in most areas of daily life.

• Unlimited Work Rights: You may work for any employer or be self-employed without the need for a Work and Residence Permit (dozvola za boravak i rad). You are no longer tied to a specific job or employer.
• Education and Training: You have full access to the Croatian education system, including vocational training and university studies, under the same financial conditions as Croatian citizens.
• Social Security and Benefits: You are entitled to social security, tax benefits, and child delivery benefits.
• EU Mobility: Your residence card will be marked "EU Long-Term Resident." This status makes it significantly easier to apply for residence in other EU member states for work or study, though you must still follow the specific immigration rules of the destination country.
• Permanent Status: While the biometric ID card must be renewed (usually every 5 or 10 years), your legal status as a long-term resident does not expire unless you leave the EU for a long period or commit a serious crime.
• Path to Citizenship: Holding long-term residence is a primary stepping stone toward applying for Croatian citizenship by naturalization.