Moving to Croatia From the UK After Brexit: What Expats Need to Know

Since the United Kingdom left the European Union, many British citizens have been exploring new opportunities across Europe. Croatia has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for UK expatriates thanks to its Mediterranean lifestyle, beautiful coastline, relatively affordable living costs, and growing international community. For British citizens considering relocation, understanding how Brexit affects moving to Croatia is an important first step.

Although Brexit introduced new administrative procedures for UK nationals moving to EU countries, relocating to Croatia remains entirely possible and increasingly popular. Many British residents move to Croatia for lifestyle reasons, retirement, remote work opportunities, or investment in property along the Adriatic coast.

The relocation process for UK citizens now involves several key steps, including residency permits, relocation logistics, and the transportation of household belongings.

Residency Options for UK Citizens

Unlike EU citizens, UK nationals must now apply for residence permits when planning to live in Croatia long term. The most common residency options include temporary residence based on employment, family reunification, property ownership, or Croatia’s digital nomad visa program.

Temporary residence permits are usually issued for one year and can be renewed. Many expatriates initially apply for temporary residence before eventually becoming eligible for long-term residence permits.

For retirees and remote workers, Croatia’s digital nomad visa has become particularly attractive. This permit allows non-EU nationals to live in Croatia while working remotely for foreign companies or clients, making it a popular option for British professionals who wish to enjoy Croatia’s lifestyle while maintaining international careers.

Understanding residency requirements early in the relocation process can help prevent administrative delays once you arrive in Croatia.

Shipping Household Goods From the UK to Croatia

One of the most important aspects of relocating internationally is transporting personal belongings safely and efficiently. Shipping household goods from the UK to Croatia typically involves road transport or container shipping, depending on the size of the shipment.

For most relocations from the United Kingdom, road transport is the most common and efficient option. Professional international movers transport belongings using specialized moving trucks that travel directly from the UK to Croatia. Transit times usually range between several days and two weeks depending on logistics and scheduling.

For smaller moves, many expatriates choose groupage moving, where multiple shipments share space in the same vehicle. This solution significantly reduces relocation costs and is ideal for individuals moving smaller volumes of personal belongings.

For larger households, dedicated moving trucks or containers may be used to ensure that furniture and personal belongings are transported safely and efficiently.

Professional relocation companies usually handle packing, loading, transportation, customs documentation, and final delivery to the destination residence.

Customs Regulations After Brexit

Brexit introduced customs procedures for shipments moving between the UK and EU countries. However, individuals relocating their primary residence to Croatia are generally allowed to import used household goods duty-free under certain conditions.

Typically, the items must have been owned and used before the move, and the shipment must be associated with a change of residence. Documentation such as inventory lists, proof of residence abroad, and customs declarations are required during the import process.

Professional relocation companies often assist with customs documentation to ensure shipments clear Croatian customs without delays.

Cost of Moving From the UK to Croatia

The cost of relocating from the UK to Croatia depends on several factors, including the volume of belongings, the transport method, packing requirements, and additional services such as storage or insurance.

Smaller shipments transported through groupage services can be significantly more affordable than full household relocations requiring dedicated vehicles. Larger households involving furniture, appliances, and fragile items will naturally require more transportation space and specialized handling.

To determine accurate moving costs, relocation companies usually perform a detailed survey of the items to be transported. This allows them to estimate shipment volume and recommend the most efficient relocation solution.

Choosing the Right Destination in Croatia

British expatriates relocating to Croatia often choose between the capital city of Zagreb and popular coastal destinations such as Split, Dubrovnik, and Zadar.

Zagreb offers strong infrastructure, international schools, and business opportunities, making it attractive for professionals and families. Coastal cities provide a Mediterranean lifestyle with beautiful scenery, historic architecture, and vibrant tourism-driven economies.

Many UK nationals purchasing property in Croatia choose coastal locations, particularly along the Dalmatian coast, where the climate and lifestyle closely resemble other Mediterranean destinations.

Planning a Smooth Relocation

Relocating internationally always involves several logistical and administrative steps. From understanding residency requirements to transporting household belongings and settling into a new home, careful planning is essential to ensure a smooth transition.

Working with experienced international relocation specialists can simplify the process and help expatriates navigate transportation logistics, customs procedures, and delivery coordination.

If you are planning a move from the UK to Croatia and would like professional guidance, Dalmatica Mobility Group offers a complimentary 30-minute relocation consultation. During this session, our relocation specialists can review your moving plans, explain transportation options, and help you organize a smooth and efficient move to Croatia.