Health, Insurance & Wellness While Living Overseas: A Guide for Long-Term Stays in Croatia

When planning a long-term stay in Croatia, most travelers think first about the view — the turquoise sea, the quiet cafés, the old stone towns. But to truly relax and enjoy life abroad, it’s just as important to understand how to take care of your health, insurance, and overall wellness while you’re here. The good news? Croatia makes it easy. With a strong healthcare system, friendly doctors, affordable insurance, and a naturally healthy lifestyle, you can live well and worry-free on the Adriatic.

1. Understanding Croatia’s Healthcare System

Croatia offers a universal healthcare system that’s both modern and affordable by European standards. Hospitals and clinics are publicly funded through the national system (HZZO), and there’s also a growing network of private healthcare providers that cater to expats and long-stay visitors. English is widely spoken among medical professionals, especially in coastal cities like Split, Dubrovnik, and Zadar — making communication simple and comfortable.

2. Accessing Healthcare as a Long-Stay Visitor

If you plan to live in Croatia for several months or longer, you’ll likely apply for a temporary residence permit. Part of that process includes showing proof of valid health insurance. You have two main options:

Option 1: Private Travel or Expat Insurance

Before arriving, you can purchase an international health insurance plan that covers you in Croatia for the duration of your stay. This option is perfect for retirees who stay part-time or wish to maintain flexibility between countries.

Option 2: Croatian Public Health Insurance (HZZO)

If you obtain temporary residency, you can register with the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) and pay a modest monthly contribution (typically €50–€70/month). Once enrolled, you’ll have access to the same doctors, clinics, and hospitals as Croatian citizens.

3. Quality of Care and Facilities

Croatia’s healthcare system is highly regarded for its quality and accessibility.

• Major hospitals and diagnostic centers are located in Zagreb, Split, and Rijeka.
• Coastal towns have well-equipped clinics and emergency care.
• Pharmacies (Apoteka) are common and carry both prescription and over-the-counter medications.

For specialist treatment or elective care, many retirees use private clinics, which are affordable and efficient compared to Western Europe or North America.

4. Staying Healthy in Croatia’s Mediterranean Lifestyle

Living in Croatia naturally supports a healthy, balanced lifestyle:

• Mediterranean diet: Olive oil, fresh seafood, vegetables, and local wine support heart and brain health.
• Walkable towns: Most Croatian towns encourage daily movement — no gym needed!
• Sea & sunshine: The Adriatic climate helps boost mood, vitamin D, and relaxation.
• Slower pace of life: Stress levels drop when days revolve around markets, sea views, and conversation instead of deadlines.

Many expats find that after a few months in Croatia, they sleep better, move more, and feel truly present.

5. Medication and Prescriptions

If you take regular medication, bring enough for your first few months, plus a copy of your prescription (in English or Latin name). Most common medications are available in Croatian pharmacies, but brand names may differ. If you’re part of the HZZO system, prescriptions are discounted; if you use private insurance, you’ll usually pay up front and get reimbursed. Tip: Always check customs limits before bringing medicine into the EU — your doctor can provide a travel letter if needed.

6. Emergency & Urgent Care

Croatia has reliable emergency services:

• Emergency number: 112 (works EU-wide)
• Ambulance: 194
• Pharmacies on duty: Every city has a 24-hour pharmacy rotation; check local listings or ask at your hotel/apartment.

Most hospitals in larger towns have dedicated emergency departments and English-speaking staff on duty.

7. Insurance Tips for Long-Term Visitors

When choosing health insurance for your long stay in Croatia:

• Confirm coverage limits and hospital networks in Croatia and the EU.
• Ensure your plan covers repatriation (returning home if needed).
• Consider travel health add-ons like dental or vision care.
• For peace of mind, keep digital and printed copies of your insurance card and emergency contact numbers.

8. Wellness Beyond Healthcare

Health isn’t only medical — it’s mental, social, and emotional. Long-stay travelers in Croatia find wellness in simple daily life:

• Morning walks along the Riva (waterfront promenades)
• Joining local language or art classes
• Volunteering or joining expat meetups
• Embracing the unhurried pace of Dalmatian time

Croatia isn’t just a place to stay healthy — it’s a place to feel well. Croatia makes it easy to live well abroad. Affordable, safe, and full of natural beauty, it combines modern healthcare with an old-world rhythm that supports physical and emotional health alike.

For retirees and senior travelers seeking security, comfort, and a slower pace, few places match Croatia’s balance of wellness and peace of mind.

At WanderAge, we help you navigate long-term stays in Croatia — from healthcare and insurance guidance to local community connections — so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying life abroad with confidence.