Digital nomads in Croatia: between attraction and challenges

Ivan Turčić; Mladen Turuk; Dario Budan

doi:10.71159/icemit2519T

Authors

Ivan Turčić University of Zagreb, Faculty of Business and Economics, Croatia
Mladen Turuk University of Zagreb, Faculty of Business and Economics, Croatia
Dario Budan University of Zagreb, Faculty of Business and Economics, Croatia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71159/icemit2519T

Keywords:

digital nomads, digital entrepreneurship, Croatia, motivations and experiences, administrative barriers

Abstract

The rise of digital technologies has transformed global work practices, fostering digital entrepreneurship and the growing phenomenon of digital nomadism. Croatia has emerged as a prominent destination, particularly after the introduction of the digital nomad residence permit in 2021. This paper analyses the motivations, experiences, and challenges of digital nomads residing/who resided in Croatia, drawing on online survey data collected in 2024. The survey examined respondents’ lifestyle preferences, motives, advantages, and perceived barriers to digital nomadism in Croatia. Findings indicate that Croatia’s policy initiatives—such as the introduction of the digital nomad visa —have positioned the country as an attractive hub for this highly mobile workforce. While respondents highlighted Croatia’s natural beauty, lifestyle, and safety as its key advantages—with over 40% perceiving no significant obstacles—the study nonetheless identifies key challenges, including rising rental and living costs and lengthy administrative procedures for obtaining digital nomad visas.

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