The cost of living in every country is different and not comparable that is why doing some investigation about where you are going is very important. The living standard in Croatia is comparable to other eastern and central European countries but obviously lower than western European countries. Students going for placement in Croatia should visit the following websites to get an idea of what the prices for everyday things are:
- http://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Croatia (Numbeo)
- http://www.internations.org/croatia-expats/guide?utm_source=google_adwords&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=cost_of_living_in_croatia&utm_content=Cost_of_Living&utm_campaign=Guide_HR_Croatia (InterNations)
Money and banking
The currency of Croatia is the Kuna (HRK), which is subdivided into 100 Lipa and equal to approximately 0.13Euros (as of June 2013). The Kuna was introduced in June 1994 after the transitional period following Croatian independence.
For most banks, opening a bank account is extremely simple. They usually offer a choice between current accounts, giro accounts and savings accounts.
Accounts can be opened in either Kuna or a foreign currency. This is because although there are no restrictions on the amounts of foreign currency that can be brought in and out of the country, restrictions do apply to movements of Croatian currency.
Normally, opening an account only requires ID and a small deposit, although sometimes the banks might ask you for proof of residency in Croatia (particularly for giro or savings accounts in Kuna). Some banks automatically provide a debit card and an overdraft allowance of up to 30,000 Kuna. Others prefer that you apply for an overdraft once your account is set up. Charges for accounts vary from bank to bank and account to account. For example, student accounts are generally free.
For further information, please see below:
- http://www.hnb.hr/propisi/epropisi.htm (Croatian National Bank)
- http://www.hr/croatia/economy/banks (Croatian Home page)
Travelling costs
If the placement is in any of the big cities, transportation should not be a problem. Croatian public transportation is efficient, clean and punctual and is the easiest and fastest mode of transportation in the capital and country at large.
- http://www.statravel.com/student-discount-card.htm (Sta Travel)