Find answers to common questions about Croatian citizenship or submit your own question below.
Asked by Michael from Chicago
The Croatian citizenship application process typically takes 18-24 months from submission to approval, though individual cases may vary depending on complexity and document availability.
Asked by Sarah Boston
No, you don't need to speak Croatian to apply for citizenship by descent.
Asked by David from San Francisco
Yes, both Croatia and the United States allow dual citizenship. You can maintain your American citizenship while acquiring Croatian citizenship.
Asked by Alex from Houston
The total cost (including document retrievals, apostilles, translations, and application fees) typically ranges from $500-1000 USD if you do it yourself for a single applicant or $1500-2500 USD if you hire a service like ours, depending on your specific situation. This includes document fees, translations, apostilles and application fees.
Asked by Jessica from New York
Most lawyers are not worth hiring unless your case is complicated. Most cases are not. The cost to hire a lawyer can range from $1500-7000 USD. This usually doesn't include translations, apostilles, and application fees. We recommend doing it yourself or hiring a professional in citizenship.
Asked by Megan from Atlanta
Yes, the Croatian government charges an application fee of approximately $235 USD. Additionally, once approved, there are fees for the citizenship certificate (around $20) and for your Croatian passport (approximately $80).
Asked by Christopher from Phoenix
While doing it yourself is less expensive upfront, hiring a specialized service can often save you money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes and delays. DIY applications typically cost $500 USD-1500 USD in document fees, while full-service assistance may cost $1500 USD-2500 USD but includes document retrieval, translations, and application guidance.
Asked by Jennifer
You are eligible if you have at least one ancestor (parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, etc.) who was a Croatian citizen. There is no generational limit as long as you can document the lineage.
Asked by Robert
No, what matters is that your ancestor was a Croatian citizen, not necessarily born within the current borders of Croatia. Many Croatians were born in territories that were historically part of Croatia or the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Asked by Amanda from Denver
Yes, there is no time limit on when your ancestor left Croatia. As long as you can document your direct lineage to a Croatian citizen, you can apply.
Asked by Thomas from Miami
You'll need birth certificates, marriage certificates, and possibly death certificates for yourself and each person in your direct line back to your Croatian ancestor. You'll also need your Croatian ancestor's birth certificate or other proof of their Croatian citizenship.
Asked by Jessica from Philadelphia
Yes, all OFFICIAL non-Croatian documents must be translated by a certified translator. This includes birth certificates, marriage certificates, and any other official documents submitted with your application. Does not include resume, statement and application form. That can be done using Google Translate.
Asked by Brian from Austin
An apostille is a form of authentication issued by your state government for documents that will be used in countries that participate in the Hague Convention. Similar to Translation, your OFFICIAL U.S. documents need apostilles to be recognized as legally valid in Croatia.
Asked by Lauren from Portland
You must submit your application in person at a Croatian embassy or consulate in the United States. You cannot mail your application or submit it online.
Asked by Kevin from Dallas
No, you don't need to travel to Croatia during the application process. The entire process can be completed through the Croatian embassy or consulate in the United States.
Asked by Emily from Washington DC
The Croatian embassy or consulate will contact you when a decision has been made on your application. If approved, you'll receive instructions on next steps for obtaining your citizenship certificate and passport.
Asked by Daniel from Los Angeles
As a Croatian citizen, you gain the right to live, work, and study in any EU country without restrictions. You also gain access to EU healthcare systems, can vote in Croatian and EU elections, and can pass citizenship to your children.
Asked by Rachel from Minneapolis
Yes, Croatian citizenship gives you the right to live, work, and study in any of the 27 European Union countries without the need for a visa or work permit.
Asked by Jason from Detroit
Yes, once you obtain Croatian citizenship, you can register your minor children as Croatian citizens. Adult children would need to apply separately based on their descent from you.
Even though you can do it all by yourself, it can be a good idea to hire a professional. Our experts can guide you through the entire process, saving you time and avoiding costly mistakes.
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