Croatia introduces special long-term visas for professional drivers

Croatia has become the first European Union member to introduce special long-term visas for bus and truck drivers from third countries, including those from the Western Balkans. Starting September 23, 2026, professional drivers who do not otherwise require a visa to enter Croatia can apply for these specific visas to facilitate international transport.

The measure addresses a critical issue caused by Schengen rules, which limit third-country nationals to 90 days of stay within a 180-day period. For professional drivers, this restriction often disrupts supply chains and business operations as they quickly exhaust their permitted days through frequent border crossings.

Bosnian Minister of Communications and Transport, Edin Forto, welcomed the move as a significant step toward ensuring drivers are treated as professionals rather than tourists or migrants. While these national visas do not grant general work permits or unlimited stay in other EU member states, they are viewed as a potential model for other EU nations to ensure the smooth flow of goods.

Applications will initially be processed in limited daily numbers at Croatian embassies and consulates, such as in Sarajevo and Belgrade, as electronic systems are adjusted. The visas are strictly for the purpose of transporting goods and passengers into Croatia; transit through Croatia to other Schengen areas will still be subject to the standard 90/180-day rule via the Entry/Exit System (EES).