Why Croatia Needs Student Visas for International Students
Croatia, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, has been gaining attention as an emerging education hub. However, a major barrier preventing it from reaching its full potential is the absence of dedicated student visas for international learners. Stakeholders, including the Croatian Employers’ Association and several university rectors, are calling on the government to amend the Aliens Act and introduce long-term student visas to attract a greater number of foreign students.
Current Visa System and Its Limitations
At present, students from non-EU countries who wish to study in Croatia are only issued short-term visas. They later need to apply for temporary residence permits that are valid for one year. This cumbersome process creates uncertainty for international students and discourages them from choosing Croatia as their study destination. Compared to other European countries with streamlined student visa policies, Croatia’s bureaucratic hurdles put it at a competitive disadvantage.
Ana Tecilazić, representing Algebra Bernays University, emphasized that the lack of student visas and healthcare insurance obstacles significantly reduce Croatia’s appeal. She pointed out that without a proper visa system, Croatia is effectively pushing international students away instead of welcoming them.
Declining Student Numbers and Its Economic Impact
A closer look at recent data reveals that the number of students in Croatia has decreased by 7% over the past seven years. This decline raises concerns not only for the education sector but also for the country’s overall economic growth. The lack of international students directly impacts universities, local businesses, and industries that rely on skilled labor.
Of the 1,848 available study programs in Croatia, only 147 are accredited for instruction in foreign languages. This limited academic diversity further discourages international students from choosing Croatia as their destination for higher education.
How Student Visas Can Help Croatia’s Economy
- Boosting the Higher Education Sector – Implementing student visas will encourage more international students to enroll in Croatian universities, fostering cultural exchange and academic excellence.
- Addressing Labor Shortages – Many industries in Croatia face a shortage of skilled workers. By attracting international students, the country can retain talent and fill workforce gaps in crucial sectors.
- Strengthening International Reputation – Countries with well-structured student visa policies gain global recognition as education hubs. Croatia has the potential to join this league by making strategic policy changes.
- Encouraging Tourism and Investment – International students contribute significantly to local economies by spending on housing, food, and travel. A higher student influx can boost various sectors, including tourism and real estate.
University Support for Student Visa Introduction
Several Croatian university rectors, including Zagreb Rector Stjepan Lakušić, have voiced their support for introducing student visas. Lakušić stated that highly educated foreign nationals do not pose a security risk and that their presence would benefit Croatian society.
However, not all academic leaders share this sentiment. Ivica Lučić, Rector of the University of Defence and Security, suggested that Croatia should prioritize attracting students from EU member states instead of focusing on international applicants. Despite this viewpoint, most experts agree that opening doors to non-EU students will have a long-term positive impact on Croatia’s economy and academic institutions.
Global Examples: How Student Visa Policies Drive Growth
Several countries have successfully leveraged student visa policies to enhance their education sectors and economies:
- Germany – Offers student visas with clear pathways to residency, allowing students to contribute to the labor market post-graduation.
- Australia – Has a robust student visa system that attracts thousands of international students annually, boosting its economy and workforce.
- The Netherlands – Implements flexible visa policies that enable students to stay and work after graduation, benefiting industries in need of skilled labor.
By learning from these models, Croatia can design a student visa system that aligns with its long-term goals while ensuring economic stability and growth.
Conclusion: The Need for Immediate Policy Reforms
Introducing student visas in Croatia is no longer just an option—it is a necessity. Without them, Croatia risks falling behind other European nations in attracting international talent. Addressing visa challenges, increasing the number of English-taught programs, and simplifying bureaucratic processes are essential steps toward making Croatia a global education hub.
With growing support from educational institutions, industry leaders, and international stakeholders, Croatia has the opportunity to position itself as a premier destination for higher education. However, it requires immediate action from policymakers to turn this vision into reality.