Family Reunification (spajanje obitelji)

Temporary residence for the purpose of family reunification (spajanje obitelji) allows third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens) to live in Croatia with a close family member who is already a legal resident or a Croatian citizen. This pathway is designed to keep families together, providing a legal bridge for spouses, children, and in specific cases, other relatives to join their sponsor in Croatia.

It is important to distinguish this from the EU Family Member permit. If your family member is a citizen of another EU/EEA country (e.g., a German citizen living in Croatia), you follow a different, simplified procedure. This pathway is specifically for the family members of Croatian citizens or third-country nationals holding valid Croatian residence permits.

Once your temporary residence is granted, you are issued a biometric residence permit. Your rights depend largely on the status of the family member you joined.

• Right to Work: If you are joining a Croatian citizen or a foreigner with permanent residence/EU Blue Card, you generally have the right to work in Croatia without a separate work and stay permit. You can be self-employed or work for any employer.
• Access to Education: Minor children have the right to primary and secondary education under the same conditions as Croatian citizens.
• Travel Rights: You may travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, provided your passport and Croatian residence card are with you.
• Path to Permanent Residence: Time spent on a family reunification permit counts toward the five-year residency requirement for Permanent Residence.
• Family Reunification: In some cases, once you have held residence for a certain period, you may act as a sponsor for other eligible family members.
• Social Services: You have access to healthcare (via HZZO contributions) and other basic social services.