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Digital Nomad Guide to Sibenik, Croatia | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in Sibenik, Croatia

By Betsy Burlingame

Summary: Digital nomads and expats talk about what it is like to live in Sibenik, Croatia. Get tips from others living in Sibenik about where to live, how to find a place to live, pros and cons of living in Sibenik and more.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

What do people appreciate most about the culture in Sibenik?

"Expats in Sibenik, appreciate the warm and welcoming nature of the local people. They love the relaxed pace of life, which is a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of many Western cities. The rich history and beautiful architecture of Sibenik, particularly the UNESCO World Heritage sites, are also highly valued. Expats enjoy the vibrant local festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year. They also appreciate the delicious local cuisine, especially the fresh seafood and excellent local wines. The natural beauty of the area, with its stunning coastline and national parks, is another aspect of Sibenik that expats love. Lastly, the affordability of living in Sibenik compared to many other European cities is a big plus for many expats," said one person in Sibenik.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Sibenik?

"Expats in Sibenik often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Croatian is a Slavic language and can be difficult to learn, especially for those who are used to Romance or Germanic languages. Another challenge is the slower pace of life, which can be frustrating for those used to a faster, more efficient pace. Things like administrative tasks or getting repairs done can take longer than expected. Understanding and adapting to local customs and traditions can also be challenging. For instance, Croatians are known for their hospitality and often expect guests to accept offers of food or drink. Refusing such offers can be seen as rude. The bureaucracy in Croatia can also be a challenge for expats. Dealing with government agencies can be time-consuming and complicated, with many forms to fill out and procedures to follow. Lastly, while Croatians are generally friendly and welcoming, it can take time to form close friendships. This can be challenging for expats who are used to forming connections more quickly," explained one person living in Sibenik, Croatia.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Sibenik for a while?

"If you are planning to stay in Sibenik for a period longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a temporary residence permit. This permit is usually granted for specific purposes such as work, study, scientific research, or family reunification. To apply for a temporary residence permit, you will need to provide several documents including a valid passport, proof of health insurance, proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, and a certificate of no criminal record from your home country. If you are planning to work in Croatia, you will also need a work permit. This is usually obtained by your employer in Croatia. If you are a citizen of a non-EU country, you will need a visa to enter Croatia. You should apply for this at the Croatian embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel. Please note that the exact requirements may vary depending on your nationality, so it's always a good idea to check with the Croatian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most accurate information. Remember that overstaying your visa or residence permit in Croatia can result in fines and possible deportation, so it's important to keep track of your stay and make sure you're following all immigration laws and regulations," remarked one member in Sibenik.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Sibenik?

We asked people in Sibenik if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"When visiting Sibenik, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural faux pas. Here are some tips to help you navigate the cultural landscape. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as the Yugoslav Wars and the country's communist past. These subjects can still stir up strong emotions and it's best to steer clear of them unless you are very familiar with the history and the person you are talking to. Don't assume that everyone speaks English. While many Croatians do speak English, especially in tourist areas, it's polite to learn a few basic phrases in Croatian. This shows respect for the local culture and people will appreciate your effort. Avoid being overly loud or boisterous in public places. Croatians generally value modesty and discretion, so try to keep your voice down and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. Don't leave without saying goodbye. Croatians are very hospitable and it's considered rude to leave a gathering without saying goodbye to each person individually. Avoid wearing revealing clothing in religious sites. When visiting churches or other religious sites, it's important to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture. Don't forget to tip. In Croatia, it's customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants and cafes. It's also common to round up the bill in taxis. Avoid turning down food or drink. If you're invited to someone's home, it's considered impolite to refuse food or drink. Even if you're not hungry or thirsty, it's best to accept a small amount to show your appreciation. Don't rush your meals. In Croatia, meals are a time to relax and enjoy the company of others. Take your time and savor the experience," explained one person living in Sibenik, Croatia.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

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Get Quote

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