Every summer, dozens of foreign police officers arrive in Croatia. Mostly from central and western Europe, they assist their fellow nationals when tourists find themselves in trouble.
International police presence welcomed across Croatia
From 1 July to 29 August, these officers patrol alongside Croatian police. Their primary role is to help holidaymakers from their countries if something goes wrong during their visit to Lijepa Naša.
This Croatian initiative has been embraced by nations whose citizens frequently holiday here, and they’re happy to send their officers. For the police themselves, it’s also an opportunity to enjoy the seaside after a shift.
Where are the officers stationed?
This year, 30 foreign officers have been assigned to the Split-Dalmatia County, 14 to Zadar County, and 20 to Istria County, representing eight countries. Officers from South Korea are also arriving in Split soon.
As police explained, foreign officers will be visible across public areas such as streets, town squares and beaches throughout the region—from Trogir, Makarska, and Omiš to St. Jerome Airport and the maritime police station in Split, and if needed, on the islands as well.
Fluent in Croatian, dressed in national uniforms
Foreign officers are stationed from the north to the south of Croatia. Most speak Croatian, some carry firearms, and all wear the uniforms of their home countries.
The Split police department even created a mobile app, Safe in Dalmatia, which provides English-language safety information and updates on the presence of foreign police—making advice easily accessible to tourists.
Tourists surprised and reassured
Seeing their own country’s officers on holiday often surprises tourists—in a good way. Many approach them to chat, share stories, and leave smiling. Tourists say the presence of familiar police uniforms makes them feel even safer, as if their country is welcoming them abroad.
Helping in tough situations
One such officer is German policeman Martin Danzer, who regularly patrols Split Airport and has been coming to Croatia for ten years. Speaking fluent Croatian, which he learnt at a language school, he says the most common issue is lost documents.
But there have been difficult moments too. Martin recalls a fatal traffic accident involving German nationals as his most challenging experience. In such cases, foreign officers are vital—they liaise with embassies, families, and friends of the victims.
More than just a holiday post
“I’m here to work, not to relax,” Martin says, adding that he prefers winter and ice hockey to the summer heat on the Croatian coast.
These officers play a crucial role during emergencies, especially when tourists don’t speak English. In such cases, a police officer from the same country often steps in to resolve the issue smoothly.
A model of success and safety
This cooperation model has proven effective. It helps not just tourists but also the Croatian police. It’s one more reason why Croatia continues to be one of Europe’s safest countries for visitors.
