Can foreigners buy property in Croatia?
Yes for EU citizens, on the same terms as Croatians. Buyers from outside the EU, including the UK and the US, can buy too, but need the Ministry of Justice's approval based on reciprocity, which usually takes two to six months.
Yes, you can buy in your own name. / Yes, with conditions.: Same terms as Croatian citizens; no approval needed.
Reciprocity
- Buyers from outside the EU need reciprocity: Croatian citizens must be able to buy in your country. The Ministry of Justice checks it when it decides on the approval.
What foreigners cannot buy
- Agricultural land and certain protected land, for buyers from outside the EU
Buying through a company
- A Croatian company is a domestic buyer and does not need the approval, whoever owns it.
Confirm with a local lawyer
- Without the approval the purchase cannot be registered; make your contract conditional on it.
- Check the current position on agricultural land if the plot is not building land.
This is a summary of the ownership rules, not legal advice. Rules change and depend on the property; confirm your case with a local lawyer before you buy.
Read the full Croatia buying guide · Buying costs in Croatia · Homes for sale in Croatia
Questions about buying in Croatia
Can foreigners buy property in Croatia?
Yes. EU citizens buy on the same terms as Croatians. Others, including UK and US citizens, need the Ministry of Justice's approval based on reciprocity, which usually takes 2 to 6 months.
Can Americans buy property in Croatia?
Yes, with the Ministry of Justice's approval. The United States is generally treated as having reciprocity with Croatia.
Can UK citizens buy property in Croatia after Brexit?
Yes, but since Brexit UK buyers are treated like other non-EU buyers and need the Ministry of Justice's approval.