More support for large families in Croatia

Croatia is finally seeing some positive demographic trends. The population is growing, more children were born last year compared to the year before, and the government expects that trend to continue. 

In response, the Ministry of Demography is preparing new measures, including financial support for families with four or more children to help them purchase a car.

At a time when many couples find it increasingly difficult to decide to have children, the Čaljkušić family has six.

"We believe children are a gift. Of course, there are normal situations — shouting and arguments between children — but I think the hardest part is with the first child. Then, with the second, you give in a little and actually start enjoying parenthood," said Lucija Čaljkušić.

To help families manage some of their biggest expenses, the ministry is introducing a new support measure. Families with four or more children will be eligible for co-financing when purchasing a vehicle.

"These are significant expenses for a family like ours. The prices of reliable cars are very high, and saving enough money is difficult in today's circumstances. It is also not easy to find the right vehicle. We bought a used car, and it cost €35,000," Čaljkušić said.

The measure will apply to both new and used vehicles, with support of up to €15,000, according to Demography and Immigration Minister Ivan Šipić.

"It can be a used or a new vehicle, up to €15,000. There will be an income threshold, but it will be set at a level that is acceptable to everyone," Šipić said.

The Family 3+ Association welcomed the measure but said certain adjustments may be needed.

"There are many categories of vehicles that need to be taken into consideration. We would like this to be designed as a genuine demographic measure, rather than a social measure," said Josipa Nemet, president of the Family 3+ Association.

Experts say that while such measures alone cannot solve Croatia's demographic challenges, they can send an important message.

"We need strategic decisions — stopping the emigration of young people, a traditional population policy to encourage births, a planned, rational and selective migration policy, and directing young people and educated professionals toward demographically depleted areas," said demographer Stjepan Šterc.

Demographic measures typically require years before results become visible, but officials point to recent improvements. Around 400 more children were born last year than in 2024, while the number of births in the first half of this year has already surpassed that figure. Officials expect at least 1,200 more births compared to 2025.

The ministry is already working on additional measures, although details have not yet been revealed. They are expected to be presented in the autumn.