International clients can purchase shelf companies in Croatia in 2026, with the assistance of our local agents specialized in setting up a company in Croatia. Below is information about this type of entity and its characteristics.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Legal entities available for shelf company | Limited liability company |
Time required for purchasing the company | A few days |
Types of features it includes (corporate bank account, VAT number, etc) | – bank account, – tax number, – legal address, – trading name |
| The advantages of a shelf company | – fast purchase & ownership transfer, – online registration, – access to bank loans |
| Appointing new directors | Yes |
| Capital increase allowed | Yes |
| Certificate of no commercial activities | No |
| Modify the objects of activity | Yes |
| Participants in the purchase procedure | Buyer (or representative) & seller |
| The cost of buying a shelf company | Depending on legal structure and age |
Table of Contents
What is a shelf company in Croatia?
A shelf company is a pre-registered company in Croatia, without any activities involved.
What is the status of a shelf company in Croatia?
Inactive.
How is a shelf company known in Croatia?
Vintage or ready-made company.
Who can purchase a ready-made company in Croatia?
International investors and businessmen who want to quickly start their activities on the market.
What is the proper entity for a vintage company in Croatia?
The limited liability company or DOO.
What are the features of the vintage company in Croatia?
- already registered and with a tax ID,
- it has an open bank account,
- the ownership transfer is fast,
- it is ready for business once purchased.
Analyze the following infographic that explains more:
What are the formalities of buying a shelf company in Croatia?
- we will ask for valid IDs/passports and completed forms,
- we represent clients with a power of attorney during the ownership transfer and transaction.
IMPORTANT! Non-EU citizens/investors who want to buy a shelf company in Croatia will have to notarize their IDs/passports.
Who is involved in the process of buying a shelf company in Croatia?
The buyer (who can be a natural person or an existing entity) and the seller (the provider of such a business).
Is company due diligence required for a shelf company in Croatia?
Yes. It is not only recommended but also important to make sure the company is secure from a legal point of view.
Is the notary implicated in the shelf company purchase?
Yes. The notary authenticates the documents and the ownership transfer of a shelf company in Croatia.
Does a ready-made company in Croatia have debts?
No, it doesn’t.
Below is a video presentation on shelf companies in Croatia:
Can I change the company name and the activities of a shelf company in Croatia?
Sure. You will have to notify the Croatian Trade Register of any modifications.
Can I appoint new directors when buying a vintage company in Croatia?
Absolutely. As soon as the ownership transfer of the shelf company in Croatia is concluded.
Do I need a business license when buying a ready-made company in Croatia in 2026?
Yes, it depends on the types of activities the company in question will have.
Can I get a bank loan when owning a shelf company in Croatia?
Yes, without problems. Vintage companies in Croatia present credibility in front of banks due to a clear history.
How soon can I sign contracts when buying a ready-made company in Croatia?
Quite fast, once the transaction is completed.
What are the costs of a shelf company in Croatia?
You should consider the costs imposed by the seller, plus the fees of our specialists incompany formation in Croatia.
Are vintage companies expensive?
Yes, compared to the traditional ones.
Is it necessary to travel to Croatia to purchase a vintage company?
No. We represent our customers with a POA during all the formalities.
What are the differences between shelf companies and traditional companies in Croatia?
You don’t need to register a shelf company in Croatia, just buy it. As for a traditional company, this must be incorporated first.
How much does it take to buy a shelf company in Croatia?
A couple of days.
Ready to buy a shelf company in Croatia in 2026? Contact our local agents today and get the support you need.