In the first half of this year, the Eastern European country of Croatia issued more than 100,000 work permits to foreign workers, slightly higher than the same period last year.
According to a report published by Croatia Week, from January to July, a total of 115,000 foreigners were granted residence and work permits. In comparison, during the same period in 2024, the number was 112,389.
The report mentioned that most permits went to workers from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nepal, Serbia, the Philippines, and India. However, it did not specify how many Bangladeshis received permits or whether any were included this year.
Earlier in February, Croatia Week reported issues regarding Bangladeshi workers, stating that many either did not join their workplaces after obtaining work permits or left soon after. This caused dissatisfaction among employers and the government, and Bangladesh authorities were also notified of the situation.
Sectors with the Highest Demand
The tourism industry received the highest number of permits, totaling 38,372 between January and June. This sector has been facing labor shortages in recent years.
The construction sector ranked second with 36,864 permits, followed by industry with 13,704 permits. The transport and communication sector received 7,723 permits.
Officials’ Remarks
Petar Lovrić, Vice President of the Employers’ Association Coordination for Agency Work and Employment Mediation, welcomed the high number of permits, calling it a positive development. He praised the Labor Ministry’s role in thoroughly verifying employers’ actual needs before approving permits.
Experts note that declining population growth and the migration of young Croatians abroad have created a strong demand for foreign workers.
Irina Weber, Executive Director of the Croatian Employers’ Association, said the country now has the highest number of registered workers in its history. Economic growth has generated new jobs, and foreign workers are filling gaps in sectors where local workers are unavailable.
“Employers still give priority to locals,” Weber added, citing advantages in language, teamwork, and skills. “But without foreign workers, the economy would not be able to function as dynamically.”
