Croatia Introduces Mandatory Health Checks for Foreign Nationals

Croatia is introducing mandatory health examinations and vaccinations for third-country nationals applying to extend their temporary residence permits, a move designed to safeguard public health interests. This new regulation applies to individuals from countries that require a visa to enter Croatia or the Schengen Area, including nations such as India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Egypt.

The health checks will be conducted at public health institutes based on the applicant's place of residence or at the Croatian Institute of Public Health. These examinations, to be completed within 90 days before submitting the residence permit extension application, will involve an epidemiological history, a physical examination, and an assessment of vaccination status. The goal is to screen for acute and chronic infectious diseases, including active tuberculosis, carriers of bacteria causing typhoid and paratyphoid fever, and infections like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.

If the examinations reveal an infectious disease or raise suspicion of another public health risk, the individual will be referred for further diagnostics and treatment. The decision also mandates booster vaccinations for third-country nationals under 35 who lack proof of required immunizations against measles, polio, diphtheria, and tetanus. Those employed in healthcare and social welfare sectors will also need to be vaccinated against hepatitis B.

Employers are responsible for the costs associated with the health screenings for their foreign workers. Other third-country nationals extending their stay will need to cover their own examination expenses. However, the costs for vaccinations will be financed by the Croatian Health Insurance Fund. Upon completion, individuals will receive a certificate to be kept throughout their stay in Croatia and presented to authorities upon request.