Increased Benefits
Parental and maternity benefits in Croatia are undergoing significant changes in 2025, making financial planning more manageable for many families and ensuring better care for newborns. The Croatian government has introduced measures to increase lump sum payments, parental leave benefits, and maternity rights. In addition to state support, it’s important to note that local governments also offer additional financial assistance for newborns.
Increase in Lump Sum Payment for Newborns
One of the key changes in 2025 is the doubling of the lump sum payment for newborns. The previous amount of 309 euros has been increased to 618 euros, as per the Croatian Government’s decision. This aims to provide additional financial security to parents upon the arrival of a new family member.
In addition to this state allowance, it’s essential to check the additional benefits cities and municipalities offer. For example, the City of Imotski provides 2,500 euros for the first child, 5,000 euros for the second, and 10,000 euros for the third and each subsequent child. The City of Zagreb provides 600 euros, while Rijeka offers 450 euros for the first child, 600 for the second, and 900 for the third and any subsequent children.
Parental Leave: Increased Benefits and Longer Duration
A significant change also relates to parental leave, which significantly impacts a family’s financial stability. The maximum allowance for parental leave is now 3,000 euros net per month, up from the previous 995 euros, meaning the parents earning up to 3,000 euros will now receive 100% of their salary during the leave.
Parental leave lasts six months if taken by one parent or eight months if taken by both parents. Parents of twins, a third child, or more children now receive a benefit of 803 euros per month for the remainder of their parental leave instead of the previous 551 euros.
Additionally, parents working part-time until their child reaches the age of one year will receive an allowance of 971 euros. In contrast, parents of twins, a third child, or any subsequent children from the first to the third year of the child’s life will receive an allowance of 600 euros.
Extension of Paternity Leave
In 2025, fathers will have the right to longer paternity leave. Instead of the previous 10 days, they will now have the right to 20 working days for the birth of one child. In the case of twins or multiple births, the leave is extended from 15 to 30 days. This measure contributes to greater father involvement in the early stages of parenting.
Maternity Rights: Benefits and Workplace Protection
Pregnant women in Croatia are entitled to maternity leave, which begins 28 days before the expected birth and lasts up to 70 days after childbirth. During this period, the allowance is 100% of the basis for the salary compensation.
The law also protects pregnant women in the workplace. Employers are not allowed to terminate the employment contract of a pregnant woman, a woman on maternity leave, or a parent on parental leave. Additionally, pregnant women working in jobs harmful to their health are entitled to a reassignment to another position with the same salary.
Additional Benefits and Rights for Specific Parent Groups
The parental leave benefit has been increased to 803 euros per month for parents with children who have more severe developmental disabilities. Parents earning a minimum wage are now entitled to 701 euros for full-time work or 503 euros for part-time work.
Foster parents also gain additional rights, including the right to parental leave, the right to work part-time, and the right to leave to care for a child with developmental disabilities.
How Will the New Measures Affect Families in Croatia?
The changes in the maternity and parental benefits system in 2025 bring significant improvements for families in Croatia. Increased lump sum payments, extended parental leave, and better protection for pregnant women are key steps towards creating a more stable environment for parents and children. In addition to state measures, many cities and municipalities further support parents through their incentives, making this reform even more significant for families in Croatia.
Consulting with professional advisors is essential to properly plan finances and take advantage of all available rights. CONEO, an international network for tax and business consulting, can support parents and employers in understanding new regulations and optimizing financial planning. You can find more information about these rights and consultations on the official websites of HZZO, HZMO, and the Croatian Government.
