Croatia Guide to A Foreign Researcher's
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
A Foreign Researcher’s
Guide to
Croatia
A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
The aim of “A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia” is to help researchers from all over
the world plan their scientific research in Croatia. In this guide you can find lots of prac-
tical information about everyday life and guidelines for dealing with the formalities of
employment and work in Croatia. Table of contents
“A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia” is published as part of the
“HR-MOB” project, which is financially supported by the European 0. Euraxess 4
Commission and the Croatian Government within the 7th
Framework Programme. 1. About Croatia 5
1.1. About Croatia 6
1.2. Geography 6
1.3. History 7
1.4. Political system 8
1.5. Administrative divisions 8
1.6. Religion 9
1.7. Climate and Weather 9
1.8. Transport 10
1.9. Accomodation 11
1.10. Learn Croatian 12
1.11. Culture 12
Published by:
1.12. National Holiday’s 12
1.13. Education 12
2. Working in Croatia 15
Agency for Mobility and EU Programmes 2.1. Degree Recognition & 16
Compiled by Jelena Štimac and Bojana Grubišin & Professional Qualification
Edited by Bojana Grubišin 2.2. Visa requirements overview 17
Special thanks to: Dr. Neven Duić, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and 2.3.Temporary stay for the purpose of scientific research 19
Naval Architecture, Dimitrios Sanopoulos, Centre for Research and Technol- 2.4. Temporary stay for the purpose of family reunification 23
ogy Hellas,(CERTH), Martina Ferk Novaković,Tomislav Pukšec, Marko Ban,
2.5. Temporary stay for the purpose of work 24
Dragomira Majhen, Danijela Dolenec, Vlatka Petrović, Dunja Potočnik
Graphic design by Bojana Grubišin
2.6. Temporary stay for the purpose od studies 26
Photography by: Croatian National Tourist Board, Nino Marccutti, Tomislav 2.7. Moving with children 27
Šklopan, Juraj Kopač, Milan Babić, Ivo Pervan, Bojana Grubišin, www.sxc.hu 2.8. Social security 28
Proofread by: Anđelka Kukavica, Ivana Juraga Greenspan 2.9. Pension system 29
Printed by: Tiskara Zelina 2.10. Health care 30
2.11. Taxation 31
Disclaimer: The descriptions of administrative procedures in the Republic of 2.12. Employment procedure in Croatia 32
Croatia given in this guide are to be used for informational purposes only. 2.13. Intellectual property protection 34
Recommendations in this publication do not substitute official information
sources and information given by the official administration should be 3. Research in Croatia 35
taken into account in all cases. The information provided in this
3.1. Development of the Croatian R&D sector 36
publication gives no right for claims or legal expectations of
any kind.
3.2. Useful links from Croatian R&D sector 38
Updated information can be found on the
Croatian Mobility Portal 4. Euraxess Croatia 41
www.euraxess.hr
© Agency for Mobility and EU Programmes, 2009 www.euraxess.hr
Euraxess
EURAXESS - Researchers in Motion is a programme established by the European Commis-
sion in 2004. The main goal of the programme is to enhance the mobility of researchers and
to help develop research and science in the EU. Croatia joined the Euraxess programme in
June 2008 and established the Euraxess Service Centre at the Agency for Mobility and EU
programmes.
EURAXESS Jobs replaces the European Researcher’s Mobility Portal, which was created
in 2003. On it, a researcher will find a wealth of constantly updated information on job vacan-
cies, funding opportunities and fellowships throughout Europe. Researchers can post their
CVs online. A company or research institute can post job vacancies and search for CVs of
international researchers. All services are free of charge.
EURAXESS Services is the new face of the ERA-MORE Network, launched in 2004. It is a
About
network of more than two hundred centres located in 35 European countries. These centres
assist researchers and their families in relocating to another country.
EURAXESS Rights provides information regarding the European Charter for Researchers
and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. It was launched in 2005. The
Charter describes the rights and duties of researchers, as well as research- and funding
Croatia
institutions.The Code aims at ensuring equal treatment of all researchers in Europe and
increasing transparency in their recruitment.
EURAXESS Links replaces ERA-link, the network of European researchers abroad, which
was launched in the USA in 2005 and in Japan in 2008. It provides interactive web services
to European researchers working abroad, allowing them to create networks and stay con-
nected to Europe.
http://ec.europa.eu/euraxess
4
Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
1.1. About Croatia Croatian flag 1.3. History
Croatian homepage Croats and other Slavs settled on the east coast of the Adriatic Sea
http://www.hr/croatia and the Pannonian lands in the early 7th century, forming two
principalities, Dalmatia and Pannonia. The establishment of the
General information about Croatia Trpimirović dynasty around the year 850 strengthened the Dalma-
http://us.mfa.hr/?mh=186&mv=1111 tian Croat duchy, which became a kingdom in 925.
Croatia “The Land of a Thousand Islands” In 1102, Croatia entered into a personal union with the Kingdom of
Coat of arms
Useful information about Croatia Hungary. After the 1526 Battle of Mohač, the “Reliquiae reliquiarum
http://www.croatiaemb.net/ olim inclyti Regni Croatiae” (the remains of the Kingdom of Croatia)
became a part of the Habsburg Monarchy in 1527. In 1918, Croats,
Croatian National Tourist Board Serbs, and Slovenes formed the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and
http://www.croatia.hr/English/Home/Naslovna. Slovenes, later renamed the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.
aspx Arena of Pula
In the period from 1941 to 1945, during World War II, an Axis puppet
state known as the Independent State of Croatia existed. After the
Basic facts
victory of Tito’s People’s Liberation Movement and the Allies, Croatia
Official name Republic of became a constitutive federal republic of the Socialist Federal Re-
Croatia
1.2. Geography Official Croatian
public of Yugoslavia.
Located at the southeast of Europe at the language
crossroads between the Pannonian Plain Official script Latin In 1991, Croatia proclaimed independence after holding its first
and the Mediterranean Sea, Croatia bor- Monetary unit Croatian Kuna democratic election. The ethnic situation, combined with inflamma-
(kn)
ders with Slovenia and Hungary to the north, tory nationalist rhetoric on both sides, led to a war with Croatian
Population 4,437,460 (2001
Serbia to the northeast, Bosnia and Herze- census) Serbs opposed to the independence. Peace was again established
govina to the east, and Montenegro to the far Capital city Zagreb (popula- in 1995. The 2000 election brought a peaceful comeback of the ex-
southeast. Its southern and western flanks tion of 779,145 - communist Social-Democratic Party (SDP), now centre-left. In late
2001 census) 2003, a new parliamentary election was held and a reformed, now
border the Adriatic Sea, and it also shares a
sea border with Italy in the Gulf of Trieste. centre-right, Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) won under the lead-
Useful information ership of Ivo Sanader, who became Prime Minister.
Maps of Croatia Time zone CET (GMT+1)
http://www.worldmapfinder.com/En/Europe/ International code +385 After some delay caused by controversy over cooperation with the
Croatia/ Exit for interna- 00 ICTY, in 2004 the European Commission finally issued a recommen-
tional calls dation for the beginning of accession negotiations with Croatia. Its
Unique number 112
for emergency report on Croatia described it as a modern democratic society with
Geografical facts Larger cities calls an able economy and the ability to take on further obligations, pro-
Police 92 vided it continued with the reform process. The country was given
Total area 87,609 sq. km City Population Fire Brigade 93
Land area 56,542 sq. km Zagreb 779,145
EU applicant status on June 18, 2004 and negotiations started in
Ambulance 94
Territorial sea area 31,067 sq. km Split 188,694 Croatian Auto 987
December 2005.
Total economic 113,680 sq. km Rijeka 144,043 Club
area Osijek 114,616 General informa- 981 http://www.zum.de/whkmla/region/balkans/xcroatia.html
Total length of 5,835 km Zadar 72,718 tion
coast Sl. Brod 64,612 Telephone 988
Length of 1,777 km Vel. Gorica 63,517 information
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Croatia#History
Mainland coast (30,5%) Pula 58,594 Exchange rate 9864
Length of Island 4,058 km Sisak 52,236 GSM Network T-mobile (098), https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/
coast (69,5%) Šibenik 51,553 VIPnet (091),
Number of Islands 1,185
hr.html#Geo
Tele2 (095)
(47 inhabited) Electricity 220V, 50 Hz
6 7
Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
1.4. Political system 1.6. Religion
Croatia is a parliamentary/presidential democracy. The governing Freedom of religion and free public profession of religious conviction
party in the Parliament is the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ). is guaranteed by the Constitution and respected in practice. The Za-
greb Tourist Board provides a list of religious communities in Zagreb.
https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/hr.html These can be contacted for information on communities meeting
elsewhere in Croatia.
Parliamentary parties http://www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr/?id=47&l=e&nav=nav3
http://www.hidra.hr/linkovie/stranke.htm
According to the 2001 census, the population is: 87.8% Roman
The Croatian government Official website Catholic, 4.4% Orthodox, 0.4% other Christian, 1.3% Muslim, 0.9%
other and unspecified, 5.2% without religion. St. Mark’s church
http://www.vlada.hr/en
https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/hr.html
1.7. Climate and Weather
Mediterranean and continental; continental climate predominant with
hot summers and cold winters. The coastal region enjoys a Mediter-
ranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters
http://www.climate-zone.com/climate/croatia/
Meteorological and Hydrological Service
http://meteo.hr/index_en.php
Weather Forecast for Croatia
http://www.find-croatia.com/generalinfo/weather.croatia.html
Distribution of political parties in Croatian parliament.
1.5. Administrative divisions
On the first level, Croatia is divided into 20 counties (županije) and
one city (grad - Zagreb). On the second level, it is divided into mu-
nicipalities (općine) and towns (also named gradovi). Both types of
units consist of settlements (naselja). While the counties, municipali-
ties and towns are units of self-government, settlements are used
purely for statistical purposes.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/
hr.html#Geo
Interactive maps of Croatian counties and cities
http://www.hr/maps Summer in Makarska Winter in Zagreb
8 9
Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
1.8. Transport Traffic accidents with a foreign registration vehicle involved
Arrival: - By Plane - By Car - By Boat - By In cases of traffic accidents with a foreign-registration vehicle in-
Bus - By Rail. volved, the police officer who investigated the scene of the accident
http://www.croatia.hr/English/Dolazak/ will issue a vehicle damage certificate to the vehicle owner. This cer-
Dolazak.aspx tificate is necessary to cross the state border.
Most cities and urban areas in Croatia There is no obligation on part of the police station responsible for
have well-developed local transport. Visit the area where the traffic accident in question occurred to issue any
the following web site for more information official document to a foreign national who was involved in the traffic
on local transport in Zagreb: accident. The police station in question will communicate such docu-
http://www.zet.hr/english.aspx ments upon written request. The document that foreign nationals or
insurers most frequently request is the Traffic Accident Investiga-
Airport procedure tion Record.
The procedure for international airport ar-
rivals in Croatia is more or less the same
as in all other European countries.
1.9. Accommodation
Useful information on accommodation facilities in Croatia can be
http://www.zagreb-airport.hr/en/vrijeme_ found on the following web site:
prijave http://www.accommodationincroatia.net/
Trams in Zagreb
There is no limit on foreign or domestic
International driver’s license Renting an apartment is a process that needs to be started at least
currency a foreigner is allowed to import.
In order to obtain an International Driver’s one month prior to arrival to Croatia. It is necessary to consult a per-
For further information visit the following-
Licence, a foreigner shall submit an applica- son who speaks Croatian in order to translate real-estate advertise-
website:
tion to the Croatian Automobile Club (HAK) ments. The main newspaper for advertising accommodation is “Plavi
http://www.carina.hr/Putnici/PutniciInfo. if he/she is a holder of a Croatian driver’s oglasnik.” It can be bought all over Croatia or accessed online:
aspx#P2 licence. The International Driver’s Licence is http://www.oglasnik.hr
indispensable in every country in the world,
Speed limits per vehicle and road category: unless you are travelling with your own car. If The monthly rate for a single-bed furnished apartment in cities varies
http://www.ttfse.org/default. you use your own car, you will need an Inter- from EUR 200-400 per month, depending on quality and location. In
aspx?c=84&p=62 national Driver’s Licence only in the follow- most cases, it is necessary to pay a deposit in the amount of one
ing European countries: Turkey, Greece, the month’s rent, which is returned when moving out. There is a possibil-
Russian Federation, Great Britain, Benelux, ity of finding a roommate, and this is quite common in cities with lots
Driver’s License Portugal,Spain, Ireland, Bulgaria, Romania. of students. You can also use “Plavi oglasnik” to find a roommate.
In order to have a foreign driver’s licence There is also a possibility of living in student dormitories. The student
replaced with a Croatian licence, it is neces- Registering a car in Croatia dormitories in Zagreb are managed by Studentski Centar, however,
sary to file an application with the local police A foreigner can buy and register a new car, requests for dormitory accommodation for foreign students are proc-
directorate or police station. The application on condition that he/she has a Croatian resi- essed by the University.
should include the foreign driver’s licence, dence permit. Foreigners who have been
and its translation, if the driver’s class, the granted temporary stay in the Republic of
validity of the licence or expired validity in ex- Croatia and are in possession of a vehicle
cess of six months cannot be deduced from registered abroad (with valid registration
it. In addition to the application, the applicant documents and insurance), may use their
has to submit a medical clearance certificate car no longer than three months following
not older than six months, proving the driver the day of entry into the Republic of Croatia.
mentally and physically fit to operate a vehi- After that period the vehicle should be re-
cle, and two 3x3.5cm photographs. registeredin the Republic of Croatia.
http://www.mup.hr/1268.aspx
10 11
Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
1.10. Learn Croatian 1.12. National Holiday’s 1.13. Education
Croatian is the official language in Croatia. Calendar and Holidays in Croatia in 2009 Pursuant to the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), the
A foreigner may learn Croatian in one of the http://www.timeanddate.com/calendar/index. Croatian Qualifications Framework (CROQF) is an instrument for
private language schools offering Croatian html?year=2009&country=28 the classification of qualifications earned in the Republic of Croatia.
for foreigners. The CROQF provides the basis for transparency, access, progres-
1 January New Year sion and the quality of qualifications. It is based on eight fundamental
List of language schools and language 6 January The Epiphany qualifications levels. The CROQF aims to encourage lifelong learn-
centres 12 April Easter (in the Year 2009) ing, mobility and quality employment.
http://www.hr/wwwhr/education/foreign/ 13 April Easter Monday
index.en.html 1 May Labour Day/ May Day A qualification is the formal name for a specific degree (level and
http://www.edukacija.hr/kategorije/hrvatski- 11 June Corpus Christi (in the Year 2009) volume) of competencies achieved by an individual, which is proven
za-strance/62/ 22 June Anti-Fascism Day by a school certificate or diploma, or another public document issued
25 June Statehood Day by the relevant institution.
University of Zagreb summer language 5 August Victory and Homeland Gratitude Day
school: 15 August The Assumption Croatian Educational System Higher education
http://rektorat.unizg.hr/259.0.html 8 October Independence Day Primary level - First level of the CROQF Higher education is implemented through
1 November All Saints Day (EQF) university and professional study pro-
Official page of APLO language centre: 25 December Christmas Day Eight-year-long elementary education is grammes. University study programmes are
http://www.aplo-centar.com/en/komentari/ 26 December Boxing Day (St. Stephen’s Day) compulsory and free for all children from the implemented at universities while profes-
age of six to fifteen. sional study programmes are implemented
CROATICUM - Croatian for Foreigners - Six http://public.mzos.hr/Default.aspx?sec=2499 at polytechnics and schools of professional
levels of learning Croatian, from beginner higher education. Professional study pro-
level to advanced level. Secondary level grammes can be implemented at universi-
http://croaticum.ffzg.hr/hrv/programi.html In the secondary school system, depending ties exceptionally, with the prior consent by
on the type of curriculum, there are the fol- the National Council for Higher Education.
Croatian Language Academy lowing types of schools:
http://croatian.sputnik-jezici.hr/webcat/croin- University study programmes qualify stu-
dex.asp?itemID=244&itemID2=245&itemID3= 1. Grammar schools (general or special- dents for jobs in science and higher educa-
243&itemID4=242 ized)with a four-year-long curriculum; upon tion, the business community, public sector
their completion students can enter higher and society in general, and train them for
education. the development and application of scientific
1.11. Culture and professional achievements.
Festivals, catalogues, panorama, (in) focus, 2. Vocational schools (technical, industrial,
cultural policy, foreign cultural centres in trade and other, as defined by the curricu- University study includes three levels: un-
Croatia: lum); with one- to five-year-long curricula; dergraduate, graduate and postgraduate
http://www.culturenet.hr/v1/english/index.asp upon their completion students acquire sec- studies.
ondary vocational education, or semi-skilled
The Zagreb Tourist Board has a list of cul- training in case of a one- or two-year-long
tural centres in Zagreb. At least one of them curriculum.
(Institut francais de Zagreb) also has a net-
work of centres in other towns in Croatia. 3. Art schools (music, dance, fine arts, and
http://www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr/?id=156&l=e other, as defined by the curriculum); with at
&nav=nav3hr/?id=156&l=e&nav=nav3 Christmas in Zagreb least a four-year-long curriculum; upon their
completion students can enter higher educa-
tion.
http://public.mzos.hr/Default.aspx?sec=2504
12 13
Euraxess - Researchers in motion
Graduate University study - Seventh level Graphic representation of the education sys-
of CROQF (EQF) tem
Graduate university study normally lasts for http://www.see-educoop.net/educa-
one to two years and students earn 60-120 tion_in/pdf/edu_sys-cro-enl-t01.
ECTS credits. The total number of credits pdf#search=%22education%20system%20
earned at undergraduate and graduate study croatia%22
is at least 300 ECTS credits. Upon comple-
tion of graduate study in medicine students
are awarded the academic title of Doctor,
and for all other studies Master of Science or
Master of Arts. Students can continue their
studies at postgraduate university study or
enter the labour market.
Working in
Ministry of Science, Education and Sports
Postgraduate University study - Eighth (MSES)
level of CROQF (EQF) http://public.mzos.hr/Default.aspx?sec=2428
Postgraduate university study lasts for three
years. Upon completion students are award-
ed the academic title of Doctor of Science
or Doctor of Arts. Universities may also or-
Croatia
ganize a postgraduate specialist study pro-
gramme lasting one to two years and award
the title of specialist in a certain field.
Professional study
Offers students an appropriate level of
knowledge and skills enabling them to per-
form professional occupations, and trains
them for direct entry into the labour market.
Professional study includes two levels: pro-
fessional study and specialist professional
graduate study.
http://public.mzos.hr/Default.aspx?sec=2512
http://www.euroeducation.net/prof/croaco.
htm
Links to the websites of Croatian universi-
ties
http://www.crolinks.com/educat.htm
UNESCO Institute for Statistics - Education
in Croatia
http://www.uis.unesco.org/profiles/EN/EDU/
countryProfile_en.aspx?code=1020
14
Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
2.1. Degree Recognition & 2.2. Visa requirements overview
Professional Qualification for the Republic of Croatia
The national ENIC/NARIC Office is an infor- A visa is the approval to enter the Republic Sweden, Swiss Confederation, Republic of
mation centre for academic mobility and rec- of Croatia for a stay of up to 90 days or for Turkey, United Kingdom of Great Britain and
ognition of foreign higher education qualifi- transit through the territory of the Republic Northern Ireland, Eastern Republic of Uru-
cations - professional recognition. The Office of Croatia. Visas are issued by diplomatic guay, United States of America, Vatican City
is part of the European Network of National missions or consular posts of the Republic State, Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.
Information Centres on recognition and mo- of Croatia. A visa cannot be used as a work
bility. permit. The exemption from the visa requirement
Academic recognition also applies to the holders of valid travel doc-
The ENIC network (European Network of Refers to the recognition of foreign higher Foreigners who are subject to the visa re- uments issued in the Hong Kong Special Ad-
National Information Centres on academic education qualifications for the purpose quirement are obliged to apply for a visa pri- ministrative Region of the People’s Republic
recognition and mobility) was founded by of continuing education in the Republic of or to their entry into the Republic of Croatia, of China and in the Macao Special Admin-
the Council of Europe and UNESCO with the at a Croatian diplomatic mission/consular istrative Region of the People’s Republic of
Croatia.
purpose of academic mobility and quality ap- post. China.
plication of principles of the Convention on Academic Recognition Office – will be es-
Recognition of Higher Education Qualifica- Nationals of the following states do not The exemption from visa requirement also
tablished at every university, polytechnic or
tions in Europe (the so called Lisbon Con- require a visa for entering the Republic of applies to the following holders of valid travel
school of higher education for the purposes
vention). Croatia and for a stay of up to 90 days or for documents of the Kingdom of Great Britain
of performing professional and administra-
passing through the territory of the Republic and Northern Ireland:
tive work concerning academic recognition
The recognition of foreign higher education of Croatia: 1. British Nationals (Overseas);
of foreign higher education qualifications
qualifications is carried out for the purposes Argentine Republic, Australia, Republic of 2. British Overseas Territories Citizens who
and recognition of periods of study, in ac-
of employment (professional recognition) or Austria, Kingdom of Belgium, Bosnia and have the right of abode in the United King-
cordance with general rules of the univer-
continuation of education (academic recog- Herzegovina, Federative Republic of Brazil, dom, and
sities, polytechnics and schools of higher
nition) in the Republic of Croatia, and it is Republic of Bulgaria, Canada, Republic of 3. British Subjects who have the right of
education.
based on the Act on the Recognition of For- Chile, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Repub- abode in the United Kingdom.
eign Educational Qualifications (Official Ga- Guidelines for initiating the proce- lic, Kingdom of Denmark, Republic of Esto-
zette 158/2003 and 198/2003), and the Act dure of professional recognition of nia, Republic of Finland, French Republic, Nationals of the following states may enter
on Amendments to the Act on the Recogni- foreign higher education qualifica- Federal Republic of Germany, Republic of the Republic of Croatia with a valid identity
tion of Foreign Educational Qualifications tions : Hungary, Republic of Iceland, Ireland, State card or a document confirming their identity
(Official Gazette 138/2006). of Israel, Italian Republic, Japan, Republic and nationality: European Economic Area
1. Fill out application form of Korea, Republic of Latvia, Principality of (EEA), Principality of Andorra, Principality
The Agency for Science and Higher Educa- 2. Collect documents required for Liechtenstein, Republic of Lithuania, Grand of Monaco, Republic of San Marino, Vatican
tion, the National ENIC/NARIC Office, con- professional recognition of foreign Duchy of Luxemburg, Republic of Macedo- City State, Swiss Confederation.
ducts the professional recognition proce- higher education qualifications nia, Malaysia, Republic of Malta, United
dure. The optimal duration of the procedure 3. Pay administrative fee Mexican States, Principality of Monaco, All other nationals do require a visa for en-
of professional recognition of foreign higher 4. Submit documents Kingdom of the Netherlands, New Zealand, tering the Republic of Croatia and for a stay
education qualifications is three (3) months. http://www.azvo.hr/Default aspx?sec=113 Kingdom of Norway, Republic of Poland, of up to 90 days or for passing through the
http://www.enic-naric.net/index Portuguese Republic, Romania, Republic territory of the Republic of Croatia, unless
aspx?c=Croatia of Singapore, Slovak Republic, Republic of stipulated otherwise by international agree-
Slovenia, Kingdom of Spain, Kingdom of ments.
16 17
Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
The Government of the Republic of Croatia
may introduce a provisional suspension of
Updated information can be found
on the Croatian Mobility Portal 2.3. Temporary stay for
the visa regime for a certain period, for na- www.euraxess.hr
tionals of some states, as is the case for na- the purpose of scientific
tionals of Montenegro.
Nationals of the Russian Federation may en- research
ter Croatia without a visa, on condition that The process of approving a temporary stay
they have an original verified Letter of Guar- depends on the following parameters:
antee by a corporation or a physical person, - Purpose of stay
or a tourist travel voucher. - Period of stay in the Republic of Croatia
- Visa requirements
- Scholarship within the framework of the
Guidelines for issuing a visa: programme approved/ not approved by the
ministry competent for education and sci-
1. Application form ence
www.mup.hr/UserDocsImages/obr4.pdf Working permit
2. Valid travel document (the period of Period of stay - less than 30 days Foreign researchers who have
validity of the travel document should ex- been granted temporary stay for the
ceed that of the visa’s by three months) Foreign researchers shall be exempted from purpose of scientific research shall
3. Colour photo 35x45 mm the work permit or operating licence require- work without a work permit or an op-
4. Supporting documents that prove: ment, provided that they do not reside in the erating licence.
a) The purpose of visit to the Republic Republic of Croatia for more than 30 days
of Croatia during a year.
b) Accommodation arrangements In order to obtain approval on work
c) Means of subsistence to cover If foreigners are subject to the visa require- registration without a work permit or
stay in the Republic of Croatia ment they are obliged to apply for a visa pri- operating licence, a foreigner shall
d) Means of transport and intention to or to their entry into the Republic of Croatia, submit an agreement to prove the
return to country of origin or to a third at the relevant Croatian diplomatic mission/ purpose of stay to the police direc-
country consular post and they may not start working torate or police station.
prior to having obtained approval on work
registration without a work permit or operat-
ing licence by the local police directorate or
station according to the location in which the
business activity is performed.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration If foreigners are not subject to the visa re-
quirement, they are not obliged to apply for Ministry of Interior
Here you can find basic information about the visa regime
a visa but they may not start working prior http://www.mup.hr/default.aspx?id=1257
between the Republic of Croatia and all other countries.
http://www.mfa.hr/MVP.asp?pcpid=1615 to having obtained approval on work regis-
tration without a work permit or operating li-
cence by the competent police directorate or Ministry of Interior, County Police
Croatian Diplomatic Missions and Consular Offices Administration contacts
http://www.mvpei.hr/MVP.asp?pcpid=13 station according to the location in which the
business activity is performed. http://www.mup.hr/1265.aspx
18 19Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
Period of stay - more than 30 days Report to the Authority after arrival Guidelines for issuing first tempo-
rary stay for the purpose of scientific
Stage 1 - “Approval of scientific visit” Foreigners temporarily staying on a short- research:
The employer shall obtain a request for term stay in the Republic of Croatia shall be 1. Application form
the Approval of scientific visit (odobrenje obliged to report their temporary residence http://www.mup.hr/UserDocsImages/obr1A.
za ugošćivanje znanstvenika) and send it within 48 hours from their entry into the Re- pdf
to the Ministry of Science, Education and public of Croatia. 2. Visiting/ hosting agreement
Sports (MSES). After the MSES issues the 3. Two colour photos (35 x 45 mm)
approval for the scientific visit, the employer Foreigners temporarily staying in the Re- 4. Copy of a valid foreign travel document
and the scientist should sign a visiting/ host- public of Croatia shall be obliged to report 5. Proof of accommodation arrangements Proof is presumed - document
ing agreement. their temporary residence and home address 6. Proof of means of support granting habitation for foreigner
and any change in their temporary residence 7. Certificate of no criminal record (not on scientific research issued by
Stage 2 - Residence permit and home address to the nearest Police Di- older than 6 months) employer or University. Foreign
An application for a first-time temporary rectorate within three days from their entry researchers shall be obliged to
stay permit may be submitted to a police into the Republic of Croatia and from the day All original documents shall be officially provide their proof of accom-
directorate or police station if the scientist is of changing the home address, respectively. translated into Croatian, and “apostille” of modation arrangements (rental
the holder of a scholarship within the frame- all original documents and certified transla- contract) within one month
work of a programme approved by the min- Foreigners with permanent residence in tions shall be enclosed. from entry into the Republic of
istry competent for education and science, the Republic of Croatia shall be obliged to Croatia to the competent au-
only if a foreigner is not subject to the visa report their permanent residence and home thority.
requirement. address and any change in their permanent Permanent stay
residence and home address to the compe- Permanent stay may be granted if a
An application for a first-time temporary tent authority within eight days from the day foreigner has had approved tempo-
stay permit shall be submitted to the com- of changing their permanent residence and rary stay for an uninterrupted period
petent diplomatic mission or consular post home address. of 5 years before the time of appli-
of the Republic of Croatia if the scientist is cation.
not a holder of a scholarship within the Recommendation:
framework of a programme approved by the “It is suggested to start all the above-
Updated information can be found
ministry competent for education and sci- mentioned procedures six months prior
on the Croatian Mobility Portal
ence and if a foreigner is subject to the visa to arrival in the Republic of Croatia.
www.euraxess.hr
requirement. Even though the procedure may last
less than six months in the case of
The temporary stay permit for the purpose residing in the Republic of Croatia for
of scientific research shall be valid up to one less than 30 days, or if a scientist is
year. the holder of a scholarship within the
framework of a programme approved
Extending temporary stay by the Ministry of Science, Education
An application to extend temporary stay and Sports, it is suggested to start
shall be submitted to the police directorate planning your arrival and collecting all
or police station at the latest 30 days before the necessary documents on time.”
the expiration of the current temporary stay
permit.
Foreign researcher shall not start work-
ing prior to having obtained a first-time
temporary stay permit.
20 21Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
Flowchart of administrative procedures 2.4. Temporary stay
Period of stay
for the purpose of
family reunification
Less than 30 days More than 30 days
Temporary stay for the purpose of family
Phase 1 - “Approval for scientific visit” reunification may be granted to a foreigner
VISA- YES VISA- NO
who is a member of the nuclear family of a
Request for foreigner who was granted a temporary stay
Diplomatic mission Police the approval permit for the purpose of scientific research.
Applying for work permit
In the event of a polygamous marriage, the
or consular directorate or for the family reunification in the territory of the Re-
Only foreigners who have been granted tem-
posts police station scientistic visit porary stay for the purpose of family reunifi-
public of Croatia shall be permitted to only
cation with a Croatian national or a foreigner
one spouse.
on permanent stay shall work without a work
Approval on work MSES forms permit or an operating licence.
A temporary stay permit for the purpose of
registration without a the Comittee family reunification shall be issued for a pe-
work permit or operating A foreigner who has been granted tempo-
licence
of Experts riod of up to one year or until the expiration
rary stay for the purpose of family reunifica-
of the temporary stay permit of the foreigner
tion with a foreign researcher (on temporary
with whom reunification is sought.
Visiting contract Approval for the residence in the Republic of Croatia) may
work in the Republic of Croatia on the ba-
scientistic visit Guidelines for applying for first tem- sis of a work permit or operating license and
porary stay for the purpose of family may not start working prior to having been
reunification: granted temporary stay.
Visiting 1. Application form
contact http://www.mup.hr/UserDocsImages/obr1A. Members of the nuclear family are:
pdf 1. Spouses
Phase 2 - Residence permit
2. Two colour photos (35 x 45 mm) 2. Persons living in a common law
Foreign researcher
holder of a scholarship
3. Copy of a valid foreign travel document marriage in accordance with Croatian
within the framework of 4. Proof of accommodation arrangements legislation
5. Proof of health insurance 3. Underage children who have not
YES a program approved by
the MSES 6. Proof of means of support formed families of their own, and who
7. Certificate of no criminal record (not were born of the marriage or of the
older than 6 months) common law marriage or who were
VISA VISA NO 8. Supporting documents shall be adopted
included optionally, depending on what 4. Parents or adopted parents of un-
YES NO the applicant seeks to prove- /affidavit of derage children.
record of marriage/ birth certificate/ certifi-
Temporary stay Temporary stay Temporary stay cate of adoption/. All original documents shall be of-
application to the application to the application to ficially translated into Croatian, and
Diplomatic the diplomatic Updated information can be found “apostille” of all original documents
police directorate on the Croatian Mobility Portal and certified translations shall be en-
mission or or police station mission or www.euraxess.hr closed.
consular post consular post
22 23Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
2.5. Temporary stay for the
Guidelines for applying for temporary stay for the purpose of
work:
purpose of work 1. Application form
http://www.mup.hr/UserDocsImages/obr1A.pdf
2. Working or business permit/ Document proving that application
for working or business permit has been submitted/ Agreement
on voluntary work/ Document granting work on an international
Temporary stay for the purpose of work shall
project
be granted to a foreigner who meets the fol-
3. Two colour photos (35 x 45 mm)
lowing conditions: he or she has means of
4. Copy of a valid foreign travel document
supporting him- or herself, a place to live,
5. Proof of accommodation arrangements
health insurance, i.e. proof of payment of
6. Proof of means of support
health insurance, no obstacles for granting
7. Proof of health insurance
entry to the Republic of Croatia, justified pur- A request for granting a work permit for a 8. Certificate of no criminal record (not older than 6 months).
pose of temporary stay, and is a holder of foreigner shall be submitted by the legal
a working or business permit or intends to or natural person offering employment to All original documents shall be officially translated into Croatian,
reside in the Republic of Croatia for a period foreigners (hereinafter referred to as: „the and “apostille” of all original documents and certified translations
longer than 30 days, but for work work which employer“) to the competent police directo- shall be enclosed.
does not require a working or business per- rate or station with respect to the employer’s
mit. head office.
Guidelines for applying for a work permit:
The working or business permit requirement If foreigners are subject to the visa require-
shall not apply to foreigners who perform ment they are obliged to apply for a visa prior
activities and implement projects in the Re- to their entry into the Republic of Croatia at Employers shall enclose the following documents with the request
public of Croatia on the basis of international the responsible Croatian diplomatic mission- for granting a work permit for a foreigner
agreements on professional and technical consular post. 1. Employment contract or written proof of signed employment con-
assistance, which have been concluded be- tract, or another appropriate contract
tween the Republic of Croatia and the Eu- University professors, native speakers 2. Job description or type of work and working conditions
ropean Union, another state or international of foreign languages, foreign-language 3. Evidence on the foreigner’s professional qualifications and
organization, or to volunteers working in instructors and other lecturers invited skills
non-profit associations and institutions in the by Croatian universities, scientists par- 4. Certificate of company, branch office, representative office,
Republic of Croatia. ticipating in scientific and professional and craft, association or institution registration in the Republic of
training, scientists – representatives Croatia
A temporary stay permit for the purpose of of international organisations, shall be 5. Certificate of settled tax obligations and contributions
work shall be issued to a foreigner for the exempted from the work permit or op- 6. Statement substantiating foreigner employment
same time period for which his working or erating licence requirement, provided
business permit was issued, but for a period that they do not reside in the Republic All original documents shall be officially translated into Croatian,
of up to one year at most. of Croatia for more than 30 days during and “apostille” of all original documents and certified translations
a year. If they intend to reside in the Re- shall be enclosed. It is also recommended to double check the
The Republic of Croatia has a quota sys- public of Croatia for more than 30 days necessity of apostilles with the nearest diplomatic mission of the
tem of work permits. The Government of the they are subject to working / business Republic of Croatia.
Republic of Croatia decides on the annual permit.
quota (number) of work permits that are to
Annual quota of work permits Updated information can be found
be extended, as well as on those for new
The total number of work permits will on the Croatian Mobility Portal
employment.
be posted and updated on Croatian Na- www.euraxess.hr
tional Mobility portal: www.euraxess.hr
24 25Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
2.6. Temporary stay for 2.7. Moving with
the purpose of studies children
Postgraduate university study (Doctoral studie)
Temporary stay for the purpose of studies Validation of foreign elementary and sec-
shall be granted to foreigners studying at a ondary school qualifications
higher education institution in the Republic Foreign education qualifications of primary or
of Croatia (postgraduate university study secondary education are recognized by the
and meeting the following conditions: he or Ministry of Science, Education and Sports of
she has means of supporting him- or her- the Republic of Croatia, and there is a formal
self, a place to live, there are no obstacles procedure of validation. Details can be found
for granting entry to the Republic of Croatia at the Ministry’s website.
and he or she has justified the purpose of http://public.mzos.hr/Default.aspx?sec=2531
temporary stay.
Organized preschool care
The temporary stay permit for the purpose of There is a large number of public and pri-
studies shall be valid up to one year, that is, vate preschool institutions in Croatia. Some Private schools where a foreign language
until the end of the academic year. of the international schools listed above also is the main language:
have preschool programs. There are several international schools in
If foreigners are subject to the visa require- In case that the foreigner holds a Zagreb (listing is for informational purposes
ment they are obliged to apply for a visa prior scholarship within the framework of See the Ministry of Science, Education and only and does not signify endorsement):
to their entry into the Republic of Croatia, at a programme approved by the minis- Sports website for the numbers:
the responsible Croatian diplomatic mission/ try competent for education and sci- http://public.mzos.hr/Default.aspx?sec=2498 American International School of Zagreb -
consular post. ence his or her purpose of stay shall (International Baccalaureate Diploma)
be justified as scientific research. Majority of the public preschool institutions www.aisz.hr
have lengthy waiting lists, therefore inquiries
about placements should be made directly Deutsche Internationale Schule Eurocampus.
Guidelines for issuing a temporary stay permit for the purpose of and as soon as possible. Several private in- www.deutscheschule.hr
studies: ternational kindergartens and playrooms (all
1. Application form; located in Zagreb) are listed here: Ecole Francaise Eurocampus.
http://www.mup.hr/UserDocsImages/obr1A.pdf http://daily.tportal.hr/article aspx?kID=17&aID=187 http://ecole.zagreb.free.fr
2. Document proving registration at University
3. Two colour photos (35 x 45 mm) Montessori School Srecko- Kindergaten
4. Copy of a valid foreign travel document www.srceko.com
5. Proof of accommodation arrangements
6. Proof of means of support XV Gymnasium
7. Certificate of no criminal record (not older than 6 months) (International Baccalaureate Diploma)
www.mioc.hr
All original documents shall be officially translated into Croatian, and
“apostille” of all original documents and certified translations shall be en-
closed.
26 27Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
2.8. Social Security 2.9. Pension system
Social insurance is part of the social security system. Every re- In order to establish his/her right to pension, The Three-pillar Pension System
searcher with a permanent or temporary residence must be affiliated the time spent in another country is aggre-
to the Croatian social security system. The applicable social insur- gated for the benefit of the foreign research-
ance covers: health insurance, pension and disability pension rights, er. Croatian Social funds cooperate with
unemployment protection and injuries at work and maternity rights. other countries. Legal Regulations
The list of international agreements between
Croatia and other countries can be found at: The pension system in Croatia, and all its
http://www.mirovinsko.hr/default.asp?ID=4 major subjects, are bound to strict laws com-
Social Security Agreements between Croatia and other countries:
parable and compatible with modern and
www.mirovinsko.hr/UserDocsImages/publikacije/brosure/Pregleduvje-
proven systems from around the world and
taengleski.pdf
Overview of the pension qualifying Europe.
conditions in Croatia
Pillar 1 – Pay as you go (PAYGO) system
Old-age pension: financed by contributions and state budget
An insured person is entitled to old-age pen- revenues.
sion upon reaching 65 years of age (men), • Contributions equal 20% of gross salary
i.e. 60 years of age (women), having com- • Current retirees remain unaffected
European Social Charter pleted 15 years of qualifying periods. • Individuals over 50 will remain in Pillar 1
The rights guaranteed by the Charter concern all individuals in their Anticipatory pension: Pillar 2 – Compulsory pension insurance
daily lives: Insured persons aged 60 with 35 years of based on individual capitalized savings
• Housing qualifying periods (men), i.e. aged 55 with • Pillar 1 contribution of 15% and remaining
• Health 30 years of qualifying periods (women), may 5% into a private pension fund
• Education be awarded anticipatory pension. • Mandatory for individuals under 40
• Employment • Individuals between 40 and 50 can choose
• Legal and social protection A researcher of Croatian nationality will not between Pillars 1 and 2
• Free movement of persons lose pension rights due to mobility in another
• Non-discrimination country, and the periods during which he/she Pillar 3 – Voluntary pension insurance based
http://www.coe.int/t/dghl/monitoring/socialcharter/Presentation/ worked abroad are aggregated. on individual capitalized savings
AboutCharter_en.asp#Les_droits_garantis_par_la_Charte • open to all citizens since March 2002
A foreign researcher will have pension rights
REFORMED SYSTEM (PRINCIPLES)
due to mobility in Croatia, and the period
during which he/she worked in Croatia, if INSURED PENSION
not otherwise stipulated by Agreement on 15% 5%
Social Security between Croatia and home GENERATION VOLUNTARY
CAPITALIZED
COMPULSORY
SOLIDARITY CAPITALIZED
country. SAVING SAVING
www.mirovinsko.hr/UserDocsImages/pub-
PENSIONS
likacije/brosure/Pregleduvjetaengleski.pdf
28 29Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
2.10. Health care 2.11. Taxation
The Republic of Croatia, Tax Administration
Health care for foreigners in the Republic of The Tax Administration is an administrative
Croatia is provided under the same condi- unit within the Ministry of Finance whose ba-
tions as for Croatian citizens and it depends sic task is to implement tax regulations and
on each case individually whether the coun- regulations concerning the payment of oblig-
try of origin of a foreigner has or has not atory contributions. All residents are obliged
signed the Agreement on Social Security to participate in the settlement of public ex-
with the Republic of Croatia. penses in accordance with their economic
abilities. The tax system is based on the
Useful links
If a foreigner on temporary stay in the Re- principles of equality and equity.
http://www.porezna-uprava.hr/en/linkovi/
public of Croatia comes from a country that linkovi.asp?id=i
has not signed the Agreement on Social Se- Foreign researchers are obliged to have Republic of Croatia, Ministry of Finance, Tax
curity with Croatia, then the foreigner shall health care for members of their families who Administration
cover the expenses for health insurance reside in Croatia with them and bear health http://www.porezna-uprava.hr/en/index.asp Inflation rate of the kuna is 2.7% (Novem-
personally, if not otherwise determined in the care expenses for them themselves. ber 2008).
visiting contract (hosting agreement). Organization of tax administration: http://www.hnb.hr/eindex.htm?tsfsg=1077e
The Act on Health Care for Foreigners http://www.porezna-uprava.hr/en/pocetak/ 854aaf12d77f754d1c0ed79385a
If a Social Insurance agreement has been http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/type,LEGISLATI shema_pu.asp?id=b00d4
signed then the foreigner uses health pro- ON,,HRV,3fbe2b9c2,0.html Exchange Rate List
Taxation
tection in Croatia on the basis of the docu- http://www.hnb.hr/tecajn/etecajn.htm?tsfsg
The foreigner enjoys the tax privileges to the
ment that prescribes the right to use health Useful information on the Croatian Health =54551a2c9aa7b7f4c2c93d8403fac169
same extent as nationals. The tax privileges
protection issued by the international insur- System
are not linked to the place of permanent
ance body. http://www.hzjz.hr/epocetna.htm residence. The foreigner is charged with the
http://www.euro.who.int/document/E72495. revenue tax only for the income produced in
A foreign researcher has to have health care pdf Croatia.
under regulations on health insurance of the
Republic of Croatia. The grantor of scholar-
The Croatian Tax System - useful informa-
ships submits the application for health in-
tion’s
surance of foreigners found in the Republic
http://www.porezna-uprava.hr/en/porezi/v_
of Croatia for scientific research. The appli-
cation is submitted to the regional office of poreza.asp?id=b01d1
the Croatian Health Insurance Institute com-
petent according to the place of scientific http://www.porezna-uprava.hr/content-
research. Data/pdf%20datoteke/bro%C5%A1ure/
PorezniSustav_2008Eng.pdf
The visiting contract determines who cov-
ers the contributions for compulsory health Agreements on avoidance of double taxation
insurance. http://www.porezna-uprava.hr/en/propisi/
doubleTaxation.asp?id=b02d2
30 31Euraxess - Researchers in motion A Foreign Researcher’s Guide to Croatia
3. Guidelines for issuing Work Book: 5. Health insurance
2.12. Employment procedure in Final registration with the authorities before offi-
cially being allowed to begin regular employment
Health care for foreigners in the Re-
public of Croatia is provided under
Croatia is the issuance of the “work book” endorsed by
competent authority
the same conditions as for Croatian
citizens and it depends on each case
. individually whether the home coun-
The following documents should be submitted: try has or has not signed the Agree-
1. The process of issuing a permit 1. Regulation of • Company’s request to employ the foreigner ment on Social Security with the Re-
for temporary stay depends on the
following parameters: residence in with justifications public of Croatia.
• Work book
• Purpose of stay
• Period of stay in the Republic of
Croatia • Application Form
(Police administration or • Copy of Foreigner ID Pension insurance
Croatia In order to establish his/her right to
Diplomatic mission) • Copy of Work Permit and
• Visa requirements pension, the time spent in another
• Copy of passport (containing extended resi-
• Scholarship within the framework of a dency permit) country is aggregated for the benefit
programme approved/ not approved by
the ministry competent for education
2. Report to of the foreign researcher. Croatian
After obtaining the “work book” the individual can Social funds cooperate with other
and science authorities after begin regular employment. countries.
arrival http://www.justlanded.com/english/Croatia/Tools/
2. Report to the Authority after arrival (Police Administration) Croatia-Guide/Visas-Permits/Work-Permit-issued The list of international agreements
Foreigners temporarily on a short-term between Croatia and other countries
stay in the Republic of Croatia shall be can be found at:
http://www.mirovinsko.hr/default.
obliged to report their temporary residence 3. Work book 4. Guidelines for issuing Tax Card
asp?ID=4
within 48 hours from their entry into the Re- A foreigner shall apply for a “tax card”. The fol-
(City economic
public of Croatia. lowing documents need to be submitted to the
department)
tax authorities in order to obtain a tax card:
Foreigners temporarily staying in the Re- • Copy of work permit/ Residence permit
public of Croatia shall be obliged to report • Foreigner ID number
their temporary residence and home ad- 4. Tax card • Request for tax card.
dress and any change in their temporary (Tax authorities)
residence and home address to the near-
est Police Directorate within three days 5. Bank account
from their entry into the Republic of Croatia 5. Bank account Opening an account with a Croatian bank is
and from the day of changing the home ad- (current account) relatively easy. All you need is proof of ID and
dress, respectively. a sum of money to deposit. Some banks may
require proof of residence before issuing a bank
Foreigners with permanent residence in 6. Regulation of card. There are no restrictions on the amount of
the Republic of Croatia shall be obliged foreign currency that can be bought in and out
to report their permanent residence and pension and of the country but restrictions do apply on the
home address and any change in their per- movement of Croatian currency. Bank hours are
manent residence and home address to
health insurance Monday - Friday 8am - 7pm with some banks
the competent authority within eight days open on Saturday mornings.
from the day of changing their permanent
residence and home address.
7. Working List of all the banks in Croatia:
contact http://www.hnb.hr/supervizija/esupervizija.htm?tsf
sg=ee941d3d211a569c8dd9e4e12b025a74
32 33Euraxess
Euraxess -- Researchers
Researchersininmotion
motion
2.13. Intellectual property protection
State Intellectual Property Office of the Republic of Croatia
The results of intellectual creativity can be protected by the correspond-
ing forms of intellectual property protection, depending on the field of
the activity as concerned:
Research
Industrial property
• patents
• trademarks
• industrial designs
• geographical indications and designations of origin
• topographies of semiconductor products
in Croatia
Copyright and related rights
Copyright
• literary works (written works, oral works, computer programs)
• musical works
• dramatic or dramatic-musical works
• choreographic works and works of pantomime
• works of visual art (in the field of painting, sculpture, and graphics)
• works of applied art
• photographic works
• cinematographic works
• translations, adaptations, arrangements and other alterations of
works
• collections of copyright work, data or other materials
Related rights
• performances
• phonograms
• broadcasts
Information on how to protect your intellectual property can be found
on the following web site:
http://www.dziv.hr/en/default.aspx?pArtID=6&selection=0
34 35You can also read
