Croatia

One of Europe's most popular digital nomad permits — up to 18 months on the Adriatic coast or in Zagreb. EU/Schengen membership (since 2023), no Croatian income tax on foreign earnings during the permit, moderate €2,870/month income bar. Single 18-month stay, then 6-month exit before reapplying. For US/UK/EU/Indian/APAC senior remote workers, freelancers, and FIRE retirees who want EU + Schengen + Mediterranean lifestyle for 12-18 month sprints.

For freelancers and entrepreneurs setting up a Croatian business (obrt sole proprietorship or d.o.o. limited company) and working as registered self-employed. Initial up to 1 year, renewable annually, counts toward Croatian permanent residency after 5 years and EU citizenship after 8 years with Croatian language. The substantive long-term EU path that the Digital Nomad Visa doesn't provide. For US/UK/EU/Indian/APAC freelancers committed to building a permanent EU base.