How non-EU/EEA family members of EU/EEA citizens can apply for permanent residency in Croatia

Family Members Eligible Under EU/EEA Rights

Under Croatia's laws and EU treaties, family members of EU/EEA nationals are entitled to residence rights based on "spajanje obitelji" (family reunification). Once granted temporary residence, these family members are treated similarly to Croatian citizens for most purposes.

The following individuals qualify as family members:

• Spouses

• Common-law partners (unions lasting 3+ years, or shorter if you can prove a committed relationship)

• Children and stepchildren under 21

• Adopted children under 21

• Children under 21 or other dependents supported by the EU/EEA citizen or their partner

• Direct ascendants (e.g., parents) supported by the EU/EEA citizen or their partner

• Other dependents who are part of the same household or require personal care due to health reasons

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Who Can Apply for Permanent Residency?

Non-EU/EEA family members of EU/EEA citizens may apply for permanent residence after five continuous years of temporary residence in Croatia, provided they have lived with their EU/EEA family member at the same registered address throughout that time.

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What Counts as Continuous Residence?

To meet the 5-year requirement, you must:

• Hold valid, back-to-back temporary residence permits with no interruptions

• Not be absent from Croatia beyond allowed limits:

  • Up to 6 months per year

  • One continuous absence of up to 6 months for justified reasons such as pregnancy, study, vocational training, illness, military service, or being posted abroad for work

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Exceptions to the Five-Year Rule

Some family members may apply for permanent residence before five years in the following cases:

• You are the spouse of a Croatian citizen (can apply after 4 years)

• You are the surviving family member of an EU/EEA worker who lived in Croatia for at least 2 years before their death or died due to a work-related incident

• You lost Croatian citizenship by marrying an EU/EEA worker or entrepreneur

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How to Apply for Permanent Residence

Step 1: Contact MUP

Apply at your local administrative police station (MUP) based on your Croatian address. We recommend calling ahead to speak to the "šalter za strance" (desk for foreigners) to confirm requirements and make an appointment if needed.

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Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• Completed application form Obrazac 3b

• Valid passport or ID (and a copy)

• Proof of continuous residence with your EU/EEA family member

• Any other supporting documentation MUP may request

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Step 3: Submit Your Application

Deliver your completed application to your designated MUP station. If anything is missing, the officer will let you know what to bring later.

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Step 4: Receive Your Residence Card

Once approved, apply for a permanent residence card (boravišna iskaznica) by submitting:

• Application form Obrazac 2b

• One 30x35 mm color photo

• Your passport or ID for identification

MUP will issue a payment slip. You can pay it through:

• FINA

• Hrvatska pošta

• Any Croatian bank

• Internet banking

Your permanent residence card is valid for 10 years and should be ready within 6 months. You’ll receive a confirmation while you wait.

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Termination of Permanent Residency

Permanent residency may be revoked if:

• You are banned from entering or staying in Croatia

• You live outside of Croatia for more than 2 continuous years

• You voluntarily cancel your status

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Final Notes

Permanent residency comes with greater rights and freedom of movement. It’s an important step if you plan to live in Croatia long-term.

Need help with your application? We can connect you with vetted professionals or immigration lawyers. Reach out anytime.