Due to the departure of domestic workers to other EU nations, Croatia is increasingly hiring personnel from Asia and Southeast Europe. The government is now planning amendments to the Foreigners Act, which will include mandatory Croatian language integration and easier pathways for foreign workers to change employers.
The labor shortage has become one of the most critical economic and social issues in Croatia. Despite stable economic growth and record-breaking tourist seasons, the number of available domestic workers cannot keep up with market demands. Employers in construction, tourism, hospitality, transport, and manufacturing are finding it harder than ever to fill positions, while a significant number of Croatian citizens work elsewhere in the European Union.
In response, Croatia has turned to importing labor. The liberalization of employment has led to an influx of workers from Asia and Southeast Europe. The shortage is particularly evident on the coast ahead of the tourist season, where employers claim they cannot operate without workers from third countries.
In Dubrovnik, currently hosting around 600 guests, the shift is visible. While tourists enjoy the winter peace, many businesses remain closed as they prepare for the season and scramble for seasonal staff.
Hiring Filipinos and Nepalis is the New Normal
"What we lost upon entering the EU was a portion of our workforce that moved to countries with better opportunities. We found ourselves in a major predicament, but I believe the situation is now stabilizing," explained Đani Banovac, President of the Dubrovnik Guild of Caterers, for HRT.
Nikolina Trojić, President of the Dubrovnik County Chamber of Economy, adds: "Even if we brought back every Croatian who ever left, we still wouldn't have enough labor for our ambitions. The rising standard of living means locals no longer want to perform heavy physical labor; we have exhausted domestic capacities."
As a result, hiring from the Philippines and Nepal has become commonplace. "I’ve been in Croatia for almost four years—two in Osijek and two in Dubrovnik. What I like most are the people, as well as working in a safe environment with good conditions," said Renante Placer from the Philippines.
Employers are Satisfied
"They have integrated perfectly and are excellent workers. I believe they feel good here as well," stated Srđan Pujo, director of Hotel Lero. To ensure continued success, local and national authorities are emphasizing social integration. "We must not leave these people in the shadows or excluded in the suburbs, as that eventually leads to social friction," warned Trojić.
The proposed amendments to the Foreigners Act, currently being debated in Parliament, include mandatory Croatian language courses and more flexibility for workers to switch employers. These measures aim to improve the system for those choosing Croatia not just as a workplace, but as a home.
Deputy Prime Minister Davor Božinović expressed confidence that the changes would further streamline the employment of foreign workers, emphasizing that Croatia is open to legal labor but will not tolerate disorder.
Source: Blic.rs