Foreign workers in Croatia now have more flexibility when it comes to changing employers and job positions.
The latest amendments to the Croatian Foreigners Act have introduced simpler procedures that give workers
better protection and more freedom in the labour market.
These changes are especially important for foreign workers already living and working in Croatia on a valid residence and work permit.
What Has Changed?
Under the new rules, foreign workers can change employers more easily than before.
Previously, changing employers was strongly connected to the same job position and strict permit conditions.
Now, in many situations, a worker can move to another employer during the validity of the existing residence and work permit without starting the entire permit process from the beginning.
Can a Foreign Worker Start Working Immediately?
No. The procedure still must follow Croatian legal requirements.
The new employer must notify the competent police administration or police station within three days after signing the employment contract. The employment contract must also be submitted.
If the worker is changing both employer and job position, additional documents may be required.
The Croatian Employment Service (HZZ) then reviews the request and issues an official opinion.
The worker can begin working for the new employer after receiving a positive opinion from HZZ.
Changing Job Position With the Same Employer
The amendments also make it easier for foreign workers to change job positions while staying with the same employer.
This process is no longer limited only to shortage occupations. However, in some cases, a labour market test may still be required, especially when moving from a shortage occupation to a non-shortage occupation.
The Important 6-Month Rule
There is one important condition in the law.
If the worker first came to Croatia through the current employer, the simplified employer change procedure is generally allowed after six months of work with that employer.
Exception for Workers’ Rights Violations
Foreign workers do not always have to wait six months.
If the employer seriously violates labour rights, the worker may change employers earlier.
This includes situations such as:
- Unpaid salaries
- Serious labour law violations
- Violations of workplace safety rules
- Violations of worker dignity or harassment cases
Why This Change Matters?
The new rules give foreign workers in Croatia more security and better opportunities to find fair working conditions.
Workers are no longer completely dependent on one employer during the entire permit period.
At the same time, Croatian authorities including HZZ and MUP still supervise the process to ensure legal employment procedures are followed.
The amendments do not allow foreign workers to freely work for any employer without approval.
The legal procedure, required notifications, and official opinions from Croatian institutions are still necessary.
However, the 2026 changes are considered a positive step for foreign workers in Croatia and for employers looking for a more flexible workforce system.
