Legalizing Properties in Croatia in 2025 – A Practical Guide for Property Owners on Krk Island

Legalizing Properties in Croatia in 2025 – A Practical Guide for Property Owners on Krk Island

In 2025, the topic of property legalization is once again coming into focus for property owners in Croatia, particularly on Krk Island. Although many legalization procedures have been completed in recent years, numerous properties remain unregistered or are not fully compliant with current regulations. If you own a house, an annex, an extension, or any similar structure built without a permit - this guide is for you.

Why Legalization Is Back in the Spotlight

Legalization has become increasingly important due to tighter regulations, land registry updates, and rising complications when selling unregistered or illegally built properties. This is especially relevant on Krk Island, where older properties often include unpermitted additions or auxiliary buildings.

Step-by-Step Guide to Legalization

1. Check if your property is already legalized

Start by verifying whether your property is officially recorded in the land registry and cadastre. If it is not, it may be eligible for the legalization process.

2. Review the official aerial images from 2011

To qualify, the structure must be visible on the official aerial photographs dated June 21, 2011, published by the Croatian State Geodetic Administration.

3. Hire a qualified professional

You will need an architect or authorized civil engineer, or you can work with an experienced agency like ours to manage the entire process.

4. Prepare the required documentation

Typical documentation includes:

• proof of ownership (land registry extract)

• cadastral extract

• geodetic survey of the existing structure

• architectural survey of the current state of the unpermitted building

• photographic documentation

• witness statement (if needed to confirm the construction date)

5. Submit the application for legalization

The application, along with supporting documentation, must be submitted to the competent county or city administrative department responsible for issuing building permits.

For Krk Island, the responsible authority is:

Department of Spatial Planning, Construction and Environmental Protection – Krk Branch, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County.

6. Pay the legalization fee

The fee depends on the size, location, and purpose of the structure. The amount is determined by the responsible administrative office.

7. Final step – registration in the land registry

Once the legalization process is approved, the property can be officially registered and legally used, sold, subdivided, or connected to utilities (electricity, water, sewer system).

What’s New in 2025

• Increased on-site inspections and regulatory oversight

• Digital submission available in select municipalities

• Accelerated digitalization of procedures and documentation processing

Why Legalization Matters for Property Owners

• Increases the market value of the property

• Enables smooth and legal sale of the property

• Provides eligibility for utility connections

• Ensures entry into the official land registry

• Allows for legal short-term or long-term rental use

How Marvel Real Estate Can Help

With over 20 years of experience on Krk Island, Marvel Real Estate offers full support in resolving complex property-related issues. When it comes to legalization, we provide:

• Free initial status check of the property

• Collaboration with licensed architects and surveyors

• Preparation of complete documentation

• Submission and follow-up of the legalization request

• Communication with all relevant government offices

Stay Informed

Currently, there is no officially announced new deadline for property legalization in Croatia. However, legislation can change, and opportunities may arise through amendments or new government decisions.
We will publish any updates as soon as they become available.

Follow us for updates and expert insights on Croatian real estate law:

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Conclusion

Legalizing your property in 2025 is not just a legal obligation — it is a smart move that enhances the value, security, and marketability of your asset. If you own an unregistered or unpermitted structure on Krk Island, contact us today – we turn the impossible into possible.

Marvel Real Estate – Your trusted local expert on Krk Island https://www.marvel-realestate.com/contact