TEFL Travel Guide: Croatia

Croatia, with its stunning Adriatic coastline, charming medieval towns, and rising global profile, has quietly become one of Europe’s most intriguing destinations for TEFL teachers. Once an overlooked gem, it now draws travellers and expatriates from all over the world seeking both beauty and opportunity.

With a growing demand for English, especially among young professionals and students, teaching in Croatia offers a unique chance to live and work in a country that balances rich cultural heritage with modern European energy. Recent changes to the immigration policy - including the extension of the digital nomad visa to three years - have made it even more attractive for foreign professionals, offering more stability and long-term potential than ever before.

TEFL Requirements

While Croatia is not as saturated with TEFL jobs as some of its Western European neighbors, there is still consistent demand, particularly in larger cities like Zagreb, Split, and Rijeka. To teach English in Croatia, the basic requirement is a TEFL or TESOL certificate, typically of at least 120 hours. While a bachelor’s degree is not legally mandatory in all cases, it is strongly preferred by most employers and will improve your chances significantly, especially in established language centres.

One of the major benefits for English teachers today is Croatia’s openness to remote workers. In 2021, Croatia launched its digital nomad visa, and in 2025, it was extended to a maximum of three years, offering long-term residency to non-EU citizens who work remotely, including freelance English teachers. While this visa does not permit direct employment with Croatian companies, it provides a legal way for teachers to live in the country while offering private lessons or working for international online teaching platforms. EU citizens, on the other hand, do not require a visa to live or work in Croatia, making the process more straightforward.

Language schools typically operate under the assumption that new teachers will have some classroom experience, but beginners with a good TEFL certification and the right attitude can also find opportunities. Speaking Croatian is not necessary to teach English, though learning the basics can go a long way toward integrating into daily life and building relationships with students and local colleagues.

TEFL Jobs

The TEFL job market in Croatia is modest but steadily growing. Most jobs are found in private language schools, which offer after-school or evening classes for children, teens, and adult learners. Business English is also a rising trend, especially in the capital, as more companies prioritize international communication skills. Schools often hire part-time or on a freelance basis, allowing teachers to combine teaching with private tutoring or online work. Private language schools and institutions we’d recommend looking into include Inicijativa, British Council Croatia, Angla, SOVA Language School, Linguae, and Wall Street English.

Another popular option is private tutoring, particularly among families seeking to give their children a leg up in the competitive university entrance exams or international schools. Many EFL teachers in Croatia find that combining part-time school work with private lessons offers both financial flexibility and a more personalised teaching experience. We’d recommend checking out Jobs in Croatia, MojPosao, and ESL Base.

For those working online, the digital nomad visa is a game-changer. Teachers who work remotely for companies based outside Croatia can live legally in the country for up to three years, enjoying the benefits of residency without the administrative complexity of traditional work visas. This is especially attractive for freelance teachers or those working through platforms like Cambly, iTalki, or Preply.

Although salaries for in-person TEFL jobs are relatively low - usually between €600 and €1,000 per month - the cost of living in Croatia is lower than in many Western European countries. Private tutoring and online teaching can help round out your income to a comfortable level.

Life in Croatia

Life in Croatia offers a remarkable blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. From the cobblestone streets of Dubrovnik to the café-lined squares of Zagreb, the country is a feast for the senses. The Adriatic coast is arguably one of the most beautiful in Europe, with hundreds of islands, clear blue waters, and a Mediterranean climate that makes outdoor living a joy for most of the year.

Daily life in Croatia moves at a slower, more relaxed pace than in many Western countries. Meals are social occasions, coffee is a daily ritual, and the importance of family and tradition is deeply rooted in the culture. At the same time, Croatia is tech-savvy and increasingly international, especially in larger cities where you’ll find a growing number of co-working spaces, startups, and international communities.

The cost of living in Croatia is generally reasonable. In smaller towns, rent can be as low as €300 to €500 per month, while in cities like Split or Zagreb, you may pay more, particularly in the tourist-heavy months. Groceries, transportation, and healthcare are also relatively affordable, allowing teachers on modest salaries to live comfortably, especially if they supplement their income with online or private lessons.

Croatians are generally welcoming and proud of their country’s heritage. While English is widely spoken among younger people, learning a few Croatian phrases will help you earn the goodwill of locals. Public transportation is reliable and affordable, and domestic travel within the country is easy via buses and trains.

Conclusion

Teaching English in Croatia is about more than just a job - it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a country that seamlessly blends the ancient with the modern. For EFL teachers seeking a laid-back, culturally rich lifestyle with access to both mountains and sea, Croatia checks every box. The recent extension of the digital nomad visa to three years makes it a particularly attractive destination for non-EU citizens looking for longer-term stays without complicated paperwork. While the TEFL job market is still developing, there are plenty of opportunities for creative and adaptable teachers, especially those open to freelance or remote work.

Croatia offers not only a beautiful backdrop for teaching but also a high quality of life, and a chance to be part of an emerging global hub in the heart of Europe.