Croatia will double the validity period of the EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card grants highly qualified relocators the right to work and live in the countries of the European Union. The visa is aimed at solving the problem of the shortage of professional workers in industries such as information technology, medical services, engineering and others. In recent years, Croatia has become increasingly popular among migrants looking for work.

Important! 

According to the innovations, the period during which the document will be valid will increase. In addition, the right to receive will be expanded to include IT specialists without formal education.

What is a blue card

This is a special type of work permit, with which employees can legalize their stay in one of the EU countries. The card provides benefits such as the right to live, access to social services and the ability to move throughout the EU. To get it, you need to fulfill a number of conditions.

The main goal is to attract talented personnel, which contributes to strengthening the economy and innovation potential. The map not only facilitates the integration of migrants into local society, but also complements cultural diversity, which is an important aspect of European identity.

According to the data, from the beginning of the year to September 30, Croatia provided more than 150,000 cards to expats from various countries. The largest number were citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nepal and Serbia. A larger number of candidates are involved in the following areas:

• construction;
• tourism;
• healthcare system;
• light and heavy industry;
• transportation;
• trade.

Extension of the validity period

Recently, the country has expressed a desire to double the term from the current 2 to 4 years. In addition, she plans to expand the category of participants by adding IT specialists who do not have official qualifications.

The Croatian Prime Minister announced that these changes will help solve the problems of labor shortages and provide foreigners with more attractive conditions. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, in turn, added that the main goal of the initiative is to attract specialists to the country.

The decision to extend the validity of the EU Blue Card strengthens Croatia's position as one of the most attractive places for qualified professionals and freelancers. For those who are looking for more flexible ways to move and stay in a developed European country, the Croatian government suggests considering a digital nomad visa.

New conditions

The authorities explained that along with increasing the validity of the card, the state intends to expand the criteria for obtaining this document. Now, the relocators who do not have an education, but have the appropriate skills in the field of methods and means for collecting, storing, processing and distributing information, will also be able to apply for a document. However, they will need to confirm their work experience in this field, and their applications will be considered by a special committee.

What you need to apply for

Third-country nationals are required to have a valid employment contract for a period of at least one year for highly qualified work and comply with minimum wage requirements. In particular, the annual salary should be from 24,845 €.

Applicants need to submit supporting papers for compliance with the requirements for regulated professions. As well as educational qualifications for the unregulated. In addition, it is necessary to demonstrate a bank statement with sufficient funds to ensure residence in the country, prepare a copy of the travel document and additional information if necessary.

The processing time for the application for a Croatian card is from one to two months, and the initial fee is 74,32 €.