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CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION

What Is Croatian Citizenship by Naturalization

Croatian citizenship by naturalization allows foreign nationals who have established residence, employment, or strong personal ties in Croatia to become Croatian citizens.


It is the ideal path for individuals who do not qualify through descent or marriage but have built their lives in Croatia or have a recognized connection to the Croatian people.

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At Croatian Citizenship Consultants, we assist clients in obtaining citizenship by regular naturalization or through citizenship by belonging to the Croatian people, ensuring every step complies with the Croatian Citizenship Act (Zakon o hrvatskom državljanstvu).

Who Qualifies for Citizenship by Naturalization

You may qualify for Croatian citizenship by naturalization if you:

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  • Have lived in Croatia continuously for at least eight years and hold permanent residence

  • Demonstrate knowledge of the Croatian language, Latin script, culture, and society

  • Have no criminal record or pending legal issues

  • Can show stable income or financial means to support yourself

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Additionally, you may qualify under special provisions of the law if you:

  • Have previously held Croatian citizenship

  • Are married to or in a registered partnership with a Croatian citizen

  • Are a member of the Croatian people (pripadnik hrvatskog naroda), regardless of place of birth or residence

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Citizenship by belonging to the Croatian people applies to individuals who identify as Croats by ethnicity, culture, or national tradition, and can demonstrate their connection through language, ancestry, or active involvement in the Croatian community abroad.

Required Documents

Typical documentation for naturalization includes:

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  • Valid passport and residence permit

  • Proof of continuous residence in Croatia (temporary and permanent)

  • Birth certificate and citizenship certificate from your home country

  • Marriage certificate (if applicable)

  • Certificate of language and cultural knowledge (issued by an authorized institution)

  • Proof of income or financial stability

  • Certificate of no criminal record (Croatia and home country)

  • Proof of belonging to the Croatian people (if applying under that provision)

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Our consultants ensure that all documents are properly prepared, translated, and legalized before submission to the Ministry of Interior (MUP).

Where to Apply

Applications for Croatian citizenship by naturalization are submitted at:

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  • The Ministry of Interior (MUP) - at a police administration office in Croatia, if you hold temporary or permanent residence, or

  • The Croatian consulate or embassy that has jurisdiction over your place of residence abroad, if applying from outside Croatia under special provisions (e.g., belonging to the Croatian people)

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We guide you through the correct application channel, prepare your full documentation set, and communicate with the relevant authorities on your behalf.

Begin Your Path to Croatian Citizenship

Obtaining Croatian citizenship through naturalization, whether by residence or by belonging to the Croatian people, opens the door to full participation in Croatian life and European Union citizenship benefits.

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Contact us today to find out if you qualify for Croatian citizenship by naturalization and receive expert guidance throughout your journey.

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