Graduate outlookDue to the high unemployment rate and the high standard of education and vocational training (see South East European Educational Co-operation), opportunities for immigrant workers are thought to be scarce. Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is one of the few opportunities for European Union (EU) nationals looking to work in Croatia. back to top The economyThe Croatian economy emerged from a mild recession at the turn of the millennium but the rate of unemployment remains high. However, its economic fortunes have begun to improve recently with a steady gross domestic product (GDP) growth of between 4% and 5% led by the upturn in tourism and credit-driven consumer spending. Service industries, especially tourism, account for over 60% of GDP. Croatia’s rich cultural and historical heritage and its attractive coastline and islands attract millions of visitors each year. Almost 33% of the labour force works in industry and manufacturing. This is generally heavy industrial, including chemicals and plastics, machine tools, fabricated metal, electronics, pig iron and rolled steel products, aluminium, paper and wood products. (Source of statistics: The World Factbook, 2006 estimates) More information on the Croatian economy can be found on the following websites: back to top CompaniesWebsites where you can find information about companies active in Croatia include: back to top UnemploymentThe current unemployment rate in Croatia is high at around 17.2% (The World Factbook, 2006 estimate). back to top Working practices and customs- Hours of business for banks are 8am-7pm, Monday to Friday and 8am-12pm, Saturday.
- Commercial offices are usually open 8.30am-4.30pm, Monday to Friday.
- Traditionally, long holidays are taken during July and August, although this trend is slowly changing as more international firms establish offices.
Gender discrimination is prohibited by law in Croatia, and the Croatian Employment Service is working on the improvement of working conditions, with help from its British counterpart. For more information on working customs, including business etiquette and modes of address, see the UK Trade & Investment website (country briefings). back to top Language requirementsThe principal language is Croatian but German and English are commonly spoken as second languages. The National Centre for Languages (CILT) can assist with language training, interpreting and translation services. Language courses in Croatian are also available through Eurotalk Interactive (self-study) and the University College London School of Slavonic and East European Studies.
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Croatia: Job market
