Croatia visa application, appointment & everything you need to know

Traveling to Croatia? If you're coming from outside the EU, you may need a Schengen Croatia visa. Since Croatia became part of the Schengen Area on January 1, 2023, travelers can now move freely between Croatia and other Schengen countries. This means internal land, air, and sea border checks have been removed within the Schengen Area, making travel even easier.

However, Croatian visas issued before January 1, 2023, will only be valid for travel within Croatia itself and not for the broader Schengen Area. If you plan to visit other Schengen countries with a pre-2023 Croatian visa, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa for the specific country you wish to visit.

Why visit Croatia?

Croatia is a beautiful country with a lot to offer.

• Stunning coastline: Croatia has over 1,000 islands along its Adriatic coast, perfect for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

• Rich history: Explore ancient Roman ruins, medieval towns like Dubrovnik, and UNESCO-listed sites such as Plitvice Lakes National Park.

• Delicious food: Enjoy fresh seafood, local specialties like ćevapi, and taste local wines.

• Affordable travel: Croatia offers excellent value for money compared to many Western European destinations.

What is the Schengen Croatia visa?

The Schengen Croatia visa is a short-stay visa (Type C) that allows you to visit Croatia and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is for tourism, business, visiting family, attending events, and more.

If Croatia is your main destination, you need a Schengen visa for your visit, even if you plan to visit other Schengen countries too.

Do you need a visa to visit Croatia?

Whether or not you need a visa depends on your nationality. Citizens from many countries, such as the U.S., UK, Canada, and Australia, don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

If your country is not on the list of visa-exempt countries, you will need to apply for a Schengen Croatia visa.

What about the Schengen ETIAS?

Starting in late 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries (like the U.S., UK, and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) to visit Croatia and other Schengen countries. ETIAS will be an online travel authorization, not a visa.

Schengen Croatia visa requirements & documents

To apply for a Type C short-stay visa, you must submit the following documents:

• Visa application form: Completed and signed.

• Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay with two blank pages.

• Recent photograph: As per ICAO standards.

• Travel medical insurance: Valid for the entire Schengen Area, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros.

• Visa fee: 70.95 GBP (with exemptions for certain nationalities).

• Travel purpose documents: These vary depending on the reason for your trip. For example:

  • Tourism: Accommodation reservations in your name.

  • Business: A business invitation letter from a Croatian company.

  • Family visit: A notarized letter of guarantee from your Croatian host.

• Proof of sufficient funds: Bank statements for the last three months.

• Return travel tickets: Proof of your intended return to the UK or another destination.

For a Type D visa, additional documents related to your temporary stay or work permit in Croatia will be required, along with proof of travel insurance for the duration of your stay.

Schengen Croatia visa appointment

To apply for a Schengen Croatia visa, you must schedule an appointment. Each applicant, including children, must have their own appointment.

It's important to plan ahead, especially during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays), as appointments can fill up quickly.

How to apply for Schengen Croatia visa easily

Want a smooth and stress-free Schengen Croatia visa application process? Let Global Law guide you through every step:

• Know the required documents: We'll help you understand exactly which documents are needed, depending on the purpose of your trip.

• Avoid common mistakes: We’ll ensure you don’t make the typical errors that could result in a visa denial.

• Support with appointments and biometrics: Get assistance in booking your visa appointment and submitting biometric data with ease.

• Meet all Schengen requirements: We’ll help you make sure your travel itinerary and documents meet all the necessary entry requirements for the Schengen Area.

With years of experience in immigration services, we take the confusion out of the process, so you can focus on enjoying your trip to Croatia.

Processing time and passport collection

Visa applications typically take up to 15 calendar days for processing, though this can vary. If your application is approved, you will receive your passport by post (through VFS courier service), or you can collect it directly from the embassy if requested.

Appeals process

If your visa application is rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision. You must file your appeal in writing within 15 days of receiving the decision, and it should be submitted in Croatian or accompanied by an official translation. An appeal fee of 37.67 GBP applies.

Apply for your Schengen Croatia visa today!

With Croatia now fully integrated into the Schengen Area, traveling to and from the country has become more seamless than ever for travelers around the world. However, it's important to stay updated on changing entry requirements, including the upcoming ETIAS system for visa-exempt travelers.

Be sure to apply for the correct Schengen Croatia visa and gather all necessary documents to avoid any delays.

FAQs

Is a Croatian visa easy to get?

Getting a Croatia visa is generally straightforward, provided you have all the required documents and meet the necessary criteria.

Traveling to Croatia from the UK

Since the UK is no longer part of the EU, UK residents now need to apply for a Schengen visa to visit Croatia. The process is the same as for other non-EU countries, and you will need to submit your application, provide documents, and attend an appointment to submit biometrics.

Is a Croatia visa the same as a Schengen visa?

Yes, a Croatia visa is now the same as a Schengen visa. Since Croatia joined the Schengen Area on January 1, 2023, travelers with a valid Schengen visa can enter Croatia without needing a separate visa.