Buying property in Croatia: a guide for international buyers

Who can buy

Citizens of EU and EEA countries can buy property in Croatia on largely the same terms as Croatian citizens, with some restrictions on agricultural land. Buyers from countries outside the EU usually need approval from the Croatian Ministry of Justice, which depends on reciprocity: their own country must allow Croatian citizens to buy property there.

The buying process

The process usually runs as follows. Get advice from an independent lawyer early, and never pay a large deposit before the legal checks are done.

• Obtain an OIB, the Croatian personal identification and tax number
• Check the property in the land registry and cadastre: ownership, debts and any restrictions
• Sign a preliminary contract and pay a deposit, once checks are complete
• Sign the final contract with signatures certified by a notary
• Register your ownership in the land registry
• Report the purchase to the tax authority for the property transfer tax

Taxes and costs

Buyers of resale property usually pay a property transfer tax of 3% of the market value. New-build property sold with VAT is generally exempt from transfer tax, as the VAT is included in the price. Budget also for legal fees, notary fees, translation and the agent’s commission, and confirm all of these in writing before you commit.

Choosing an estate agent

Estate agents in Croatia must be licensed and registered and must carry professional liability insurance. Ask any agent for proof of registration and insurance, and for a written agreement setting out their commission and services. Remember that the agent usually represents the seller, so your own lawyer should carry out the legal checks.

Renting your property

If you plan to rent your property to tourists, the property must be registered and categorised for tourist rental, and there are local taxes and rules to follow. Ask your lawyer and the local tourist board about the current requirements before you buy.

Questions and answers