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Currently the unemployment rate in Croatia is very high, sitting at 15.8%. However, much of the population qualifies for unemployment benefits and assistance finding work through the Croatian Employment Service.

Benefits

Unemployment benefits are dependent upon the insured's wage during the last three months of employment. Benefits are paid from 78 up to 450 days, depending on the duration of previous employment. For the first three months, 70% of the base salary is paid. After that, 35% is paid. If the insured has worked for at least 32 years, 40% of the base salary will be paid after 12 months up until the insured is reemployed. There is, however, a cap on the amount paid for all tiers.

Unemployment assistance is also available to unemployed persons who participate in vocational training. Additionally, a portion of the costs of finding new employment and relocating may be reimbursed.

Who is Eligible?

Everyone between the ages of 15 and 65 with at least nine months of employment in the last 24 months is eligible for unemployment benefits in Croatia, if the insured was employed with insurance coverage based on an employment contract. This excludes self-employed persons and farmers.

If employment ceased as a result of willful misconduct or by agreement with the employer, unemployment benefits cannot be collected.

How to Claim a Benefit

To claim unemployment benefits, the insured must register with the Croatian Employment Service within 30 days of unemployment. There is no qualifying period for unemployed mothers caring for children younger than one year of age.