Is there a social tariff or cheaper phone and internet for people on a low income in Croatia?
People on certain social benefits can get an affordable universal-service phone and internet package. Apply in writing, email included, to one of the designated operators, attaching the decision or certificate that proves your entitlement.
Some countries have a social tariff or other support so that people on a low income can afford a phone and internet connection, and many guarantee a basic connection. What exists in Croatia is below.
📜 The rules in Croatia
The scheme
Cjenovno pristupačne univerzalne usluge za socijalno osjetljive skupine korisnika
Who qualifies
People receiving the guaranteed minimum benefit, the inclusion allowance (levels 1–3, without residential care or organised housing), the national benefit for older people, benefits for unemployed Homeland War veterans or civilian war victims, or the vulnerable energy customer allowance, and their family or household members.
The details
- HAKOM designated Hrvatski Telekom d.d., A1 Hrvatska d.o.o. and Telemach Hrvatska d.o.o. to offer the affordable packages across Croatia, for three years from 1 December 2024. (hakom.hr)
- Proof comes from the competent body, for example the Croatian Institute for Social Work, the pension insurance institute's regional office, or the county or City of Zagreb office for social welfare. (hakom.hr)
- Universal service means everyone in Croatia must be able to get, at an affordable price, phone service and internet of at least 14 Mbit/s download and 1 Mbit/s upload. If a fixed line isn't possible, it may be provided over a mobile network or Wi-Fi. (hakom.hr)
- People with disabilities: operators must provide adapted equipment and services, a contact person, emergency access for deaf users, priority fault repair, and contracts and bills readable for people with visual impairments. (hakom.hr)
Hrvatska regulatorna agencija za mrežne djelatnosti (HAKOM)
Telecom regulator: explains your rights on its user protection line (working days 9:00–11:30) and settles disputes with operators after the operator's two-stage complaint procedure.
🪜 Step by step
- See what existsThe schemes and rights in Croatia are listed on this page, with who qualifies.
- Check whether you qualifySupport is often linked to benefits, age, disability or income. Have proof ready.
- Apply or ask your providerSome schemes need an application; others are offered through the providers.
- Look for cheaper plansBasic plans, prepaid SIMs and mobile internet can cost less than a full package.
📇 Who to contact
❓ Questions
Is there a right to a basic internet connection?
Many countries guarantee a basic connection at an affordable price. The rule for Croatia, if there is one, is on this page.
Do I have to apply?
Usually yes. The details for Croatia are on this page.
Can I get help with a debt to my provider?
Ask the provider for a payment plan, and contact free debt advice before your line is cut off.
📎 Sources
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