Croatia Work Permit Extension: Do You Need a New HZZ Opinion? Foreign workers in Croatia often have questions about extending their residence and work permits. One common concern is whether a new opinion from the Croatian Employment Service (HZZ) is required during the extension process. This guide explains the current rules and recent draft changes in a simple and clear way.
Extension with the Same Employer (Current Rule)
If you are extending your residence and work permit and you continue working:
- For the same employer, and
- In the same job position
Then:
- ✅ You only need to submit your application to the police (MUP)
- ✅ A new opinion from HZZ is NOT required
- ✅ No labour market test is conducted
This makes the extension process faster and simpler for workers who continue under the same conditions.
Changing Employer or Job Position
If you change your employer or your job position, the process becomes different. In this case, the procedure starts from the beginning.
1. Shortage Occupations
If your job is listed as a shortage occupation:
- ❌ Labour market test is NOT required
- ✅ Opinion from HZZ is still required
2. Other Occupations
If your job is not on the shortage list:
- ✅ Labour market test is conducted
- ✅ Opinion from HZZ is required
In both cases, the final decision is made by the police (MUP).
Who Makes the Final Decision?
Even though HZZ provides an opinion and may conduct a labour market test, the final authority to approve or reject your residence and work permit application is:
- 👉 Ministry of Interior (MUP)
New Proposed Changes (Draft Law Update)
There are proposed amendments to the Croatian Foreigners Act that may simplify rules for foreign workers in the future. According to the draft:
- Foreign workers may be allowed to change job position with the same employer
- This could be done without applying for a new work permit
Example:
- A worker hired as a bricklayer may move to a carpenter role
- This is allowed only if conditions of the permit are respected
Conditions may include:
- Type of work (must be within allowed scope)
- Place of work
- Other legal requirements
Important Note About Draft Law
⚠️ These changes are currently in draft form.
- They are NOT yet in force
- They will apply only after official approval and implementation
Workers should always follow the current law until any changes are officially published.
Summary
- If you stay with the same employer and job → No HZZ opinion needed
- If you change employer or job → New procedure required
- Shortage jobs → No labour test, but HZZ opinion needed
- Other jobs → Labour test + HZZ opinion required
- Final decision → MUP (police)
- Draft law → May allow job change without new permit (not active yet)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a new HZZ opinion when extending my work permit?
No, if you continue working for the same employer in the same position.
What happens if I change employer?
You must start a new procedure, including HZZ opinion and possibly a labour market test.
Who approves the work permit in Croatia?
The final decision is made by the Ministry of Interior (MUP).
Can I change my job without a new permit?
Currently, no. However, draft law changes may allow this in the future if officially approved.
Are shortage occupations treated differently?
Yes. Labour market tests are not required, but HZZ opinion is still needed.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Immigration rules may change. Always check official Croatian government sources or consult relevant authorities for the latest updates.
