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Healthcare in Croatia
Healthcare in Croatia starts with the right insurance or registration. For immediate danger call 112; for non-urgent care use the national or local health service listed below.
Healthcare offices in Croatia
HZZO: Public health insurance. HZMO: Pension insurance.
How to get covered
Residence & OIB: Non-EU: apply for boravišna dozvola at MUP. Everyone gets an OIB tax number free at Porezna uprava. Register address — Bring passport, visa, rental contract or host declaration to the local police within 3 days. Get OIB — Free at any Porezna uprava office. Needed for a bank account, contract, health card. Health insurance (HZZO): Compulsory for residents. Free GP + hospital, small co-pay for meds. Register at HZZO — Bring OIB, address proof and permit. Choose a GP (obiteljski liječnik).
Emergency and urgent care
Emergency number: 112. Medical help: 194. Police: 192. Use emergency care for serious or life-threatening situations; for routine problems, start with a GP or local clinic.
Prescriptions, interpreters and costs
Ask for an interpreter when booking if you are not confident in Croatian. Bring ID, residence documents and insurance proof. Public care is usually free or low-cost after registration; without registration, ask clinics or NGOs about community care.
Frequently asked questions
What number do I call for an ambulance in Croatia?
Call 112. It works for urgent medical, fire and police emergencies.
Which office should I contact first in Croatia?
Start with HZZO. For broader newcomer help, also check MUP — Ministarstvo unutarnjih poslova, Porezna uprava, HZZO.
What language will offices use in Croatia?
The main administrative language is Croatian. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do I need private insurance?
In most EU countries, once you are legally resident, public healthcare covers you. Private insurance is optional and used for faster access to specialists.
What does a doctor visit cost?
Usually free or a small copayment (5–25 EUR). Costs are much higher without a residence permit — use community clinics if that is your situation.