With Croatia preparing to reintroduce mandatory basic military training for young men, one of the most common questions coming from Croatian diaspora communities — especially in the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Argentina, and Western Europe — is simple:
“If I obtain Croatian citizenship, will I be required to return to Croatia for military service?”
This topic has created understandable confusion, largely due to headlines that circulated without context. Many applicants preparing their citizenship documents have concerns. They worry that acquiring Croatian nationality may require them to leave their home country. Additionally, they fear they might need to report for basic training.
To clarify the situation, Croatia’s Minister of Defense, Ivan Anušić, has now directly addressed this issue — and his statement provides important reassurance.
What the Minister of Defense Said
In a recent statement, Minister Anušić explained the position of the Croatian government regarding mandatory basic military training and its application to dual citizens living abroad:
“Croatians who have dual citizenship living in Australia, or Croatians living in Argentina or Germany, will not be required to leave the country where they live and come to Croatia for basic military training unless they want to.
They will not be forced in any way, nor will they face any consequences.
They didn’t have to come from other countries before 2008, and they won’t have to this time either.
They can continue their lives normally, without any obligation regarding basic military training.”
This is the clearest and most authoritative clarification provided so far. It directly addresses the concerns of applicants abroad.
What Does This Mean for People Applying for Croatian Citizenship?
If you are currently preparing an application for Croatian citizenship — whether by descent, lineage, naturalization or facilitated registration — this statement means:
✅ You will not be required to return to Croatia for basic military training.
Dual citizens living outside Croatia are not obligated to travel back to the country for service.
✅ You will not face penalties for living abroad.
There are no fines, sanctions or administrative consequences for dual citizens who reside outside Croatia.
✅ The rule applies regardless of where you live.
This includes residents of countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It also includes Argentina, Chile, Germany, Austria, the UK, and others.
✅ This is consistent with past practice.
Croatia previously had mandatory military service before its suspension in 2008. Croatian citizens living abroad were not required to return for service. The same rule will continue to apply now.
Who Will Be Affected by the Reintroduction of Basic Military Training?
Based on public statements and available information:
- The new mandatory basic training model applies primarily to young men living in Croatia, typically aged 19 and above.
- The system is being reintroduced gradually, with an emphasis on modernization, professional training, and strengthening defense capacities.
- Dual citizens abroad are explicitly excluded from mandatory participation.
There is currently no indication that future amendments will require dual nationals abroad to return to Croatia for service.
Why This Topic Matters to Citizenship Applicants Abroad
Croatia has seen a significant increase in applications for citizenship by descent from the diaspora over the past several years.
Applicants in the US, Australia and Canada often have questions about:
- legal obligations after obtaining citizenship
- potential residency requirements
- dual citizenship policies
- taxation
- renewal of documents
- military service
- travel rights within the EU
Military service is a topic that can cause unnecessary worry. This is especially true among families considering citizenship for their children.
This is why the minister’s statement is important: it removes uncertainty and allows applicants to move forward confidently.
Does Mandatory Basic Training Affect Travel or Residence Rights?
No.
Holding Croatian citizenship gives you:
- the right to live, work and study anywhere in the European Union
- the right to hold a Croatian passport
- the right to pass citizenship to your children
- visa-free or visa-simplified access to many countries
- full cultural and legal recognition as a Croatian national
None of these rights are restricted or limited by the reintroduction of military training.
Dual citizens abroad are not added to any active service list, nor are they expected to report for training.
Will Children Born Abroad to New Croatian Citizens Be Affected?
No — not if they live outside Croatia.
Children who obtain citizenship through their parents and reside abroad are treated the same as adult dual citizens:
- they are not expected to travel to Croatia for training
- they will not receive conscription notices abroad
- their citizenship status is unaffected
This is important for families considering applying for citizenship before their children turn 18.
What if I Later Move to Croatia?
If you relocate to Croatia permanently and register residence, your obligations may depend on:
- your age
- your health status
- the implementation timeline
- whether the training model changes in the future
However, even in that case, mandatory service is still being introduced in a controlled and gradual manner.
Why Croatia Is Reintroducing Basic Military Training
Although this does not directly affect citizenship applicants abroad, it provides context.
Croatia’s Ministry of Defense has explained that the country is entering a historic phase of modernization. The country will see significant increases in defense investment. The aim is to:
- improve readiness
- modernize equipment
- strengthen personnel training
- align with broader European defense strategies
The reintroduction of basic military training is part of these broader reforms. It is not a measure aimed at the diaspora or new citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. If I obtain Croatian citizenship but live abroad, will I be drafted?
No. Dual citizens abroad are not required to return to Croatia for training.
2. Will the consulate contact me about military service?
No. Consulates do not issue draft notices to citizens abroad.
3. Could the law change in the future?
Changes are always legally possible. However, current statements from the Ministry of Defence clearly exclude dual citizens abroad. This has been Croatia’s practice for decades.
4. What if I already served in another country?
Previous service in another country is typically recognized and would exempt you even if you moved to Croatia later.
5. Does military service affect my children’s eligibility for citizenship?
No. Citizenship rights are separate from military obligations.
6. I am preparing my application now. Should I wait?
There is no reason to delay. Dual citizens abroad are exempt from mandatory basic training.
Preparing Your Citizenship Application: Accurate Documentation Matters
While military service does not affect dual citizens abroad, there is one area where applications often face delays:
incorrect, outdated or improperly translated documentation.
Most citizenship applications require:
- recently issued documents
- proper apostilles
- accurate certified translations from English into Croatian
- clear consistency between names, dates and places
- complete evidence supporting your line of descent
Mistakes in these areas lead to thousands of delays every year.
Need Certified Translations for Your Croatian Citizenship Application?
If you’re preparing your application and want to ensure that your documentation is properly translated and ready for submission, I can assist you.
I provide:
- certified translations from English to Croatian
- same-day delivery for most documents (Certified translations can be delivered by e-mail or sent as originals via DHL Express
- professional guidance based on years of experience working with citizenship applicants worldwide
You can send documents as scans or clear photographs by email.
Sudski tumač za engleski jezik Rijeka | Certified Translator 