Croatia pays over €20 million in one-off aid for newborns as birth rate shows uptick

More than 20 million euros were paid out last year as one-off financial aid for newborn children, the Ministry of Demography and Immigration reported. The ministry emphasized that this is part of a broader package of measures aimed at supporting families and promoting demographic renewal.

“Investing in families and children is the foundation of long-term stability and demographic renewal,” the ministry said, noting that €20,013,930 in aid was transferred directly to the accounts of mothers and fathers in 2025.

Provisional data from the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) indicate that the long-term decline in births was halted last year, with 32,385 children born in 2025—316 more than in 2024. The ministry described this as a positive trend, while awaiting final CBS figures.

On March 1, 2025, the Maternity and Parental Benefits Act came into effect, increasing several key benefits. The one-time newborn aid doubled from €309 to €618.

Parental leave benefits also saw significant increases. For the first six months of leave—or eight months if both parents take it—the benefit limit rose from €995 to €3,000 net, ensuring that parents with salaries up to that amount can receive their full pay during leave without financial stress.

For parents of twins or three or more children, the benefit limit for the period from the child’s first to third year of life increased from €551 to €803.

“These measures aim to increase financial security for parents and create a more supportive environment for families with children,” the ministry said.

The statement added: “More than €20 million in aid payments, combined with the increase in births, sends a strong message that Croatia is building an environment where families feel safe, supported, and encouraged to create their future. The government and this ministry are committed to supporting Croatian families and our children, the future of the country.”