Croatian Companies Show Increased Interest in Voluntary Health Insurance 

Antonia Filipovic

2 Min Read

The changes to health and benefits in Croatia reflect a broader trend towards prioritising employee well-being.

In recent years, Croatia has seen significant developments in the realm of health and benefits, particularly in the area of supplementary and additional health insurance. These changes have been driven by a growing recognition of the importance of investing in employee well-being and the competitive advantage it offers to employers. 

One of the most notable trends is the increasing adoption of voluntary health insurance by domestic companies. While this benefit was predominantly offered by foreign companies operating locally, more and more Croatian businesses are now recognising its value. According to a portfolio analysis, around 80% of clients have contracted either supplementary or additional health insurance. 

The year 2023 marked a significant milestone, with health insurance premiums in Croatia growing by almost eight percent, continuing an upward trend that began in 2014. The total premiums amounted to 112.3 million EUR, with supplementary health insurance accounting for 63 percent of this figure. Additional health insurance premiums made up 36 percent of the total, showing a slight increase compared to the previous year. 

Employers in Croatia are increasingly seeing the benefits of offering supplementary and additional health insurance policies to their employees. These benefits include: 

  • Care for Employee Health: In a fast-changing and competitive labour market, having quality and satisfied staff is crucial. Supplementary health insurance can be a strong motivator for attracting and retaining employees. 
  • Productivity and Motivation: A healthy employee is a productive employee. Supplementary health insurance provides faster and easier access to health services, enabling employees to return to work more quickly without the worry of taking days off or sick leave. 
  • Reduced Employee Turnover: Research indicates that employers who offer such benefits experience significantly lower employee turnover. A stable workforce means a permanent team that is already trained, reducing the need for recruitment and training of new staff. 
  • Better Health Care: One common issue with medical procedures is that they often occur during working hours. Many insurers offer virtual health assistants, allowing for consultations without the need for queues or referrals. 
  • Non-taxable Premiums: According to income tax regulations, employers can non-taxably cover premiums for supplementary and additional health insurance up to a prescribed amount. As of 1 January 2024, this non-taxable amount was increased to up to 500 EUR per year in Croatia. 

In conclusion, the changes to health and benefits in Croatia reflect a broader trend towards prioritising employee well-being. By offering supplementary and additional health insurance, employers can enhance employee satisfaction and productivity, ultimately contributing to the overall success of their organisations. 

Antonia Filipovic

Health & Benefits Manager
GrECo Croatia

T +306 974 324 430     

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