Croatia to introduce long-term visas for Western Balkan drivers

Croatia is set to begin accepting applications for special long-term visas for professional truck and bus drivers from the Western Balkans starting September 23. This measure aims to address the logistical challenges posed by the Schengen 90/180-day rule, which restricts third-country nationals to a maximum of 90 days of stay within any 180-day period.

The new system will initially process a limited number of applications, with capacity expected to increase as the electronic system is adjusted. Drivers will be able to submit online requests and book appointments before submitting documentation in person at designated visa centers. The initiative covers drivers from countries including North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Montenegro.

Transport associations, such as Pumed and Makam-trans, have long warned that strict Schengen limitations threatened to disrupt international road transport and cause driver shortages. While the new visa process offers relief, industry experts note it only partially addresses the complexities of continuous cross-border transit and the broader labor shortage in the European transport sector.