Croatian tourism has been struggling with a labor shortage for years, so more and more workers are coming from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

To attract people, employers are willing to offer accommodation, meals, and above-average wages, which further increases interest in seasonal work on the Adriatic.

The story of Edin Salispahić from Sarajevo, who is going to work at the coast for the first time this year, is reported by Dnevno.hr. He chose hospitality because he enjoys working with people and a dynamic atmosphere. He plans to stay until the beginning of October, and cites the desire for a new experience and higher earnings than at home as the main reasons.

Most seasonal workers are provided with free accommodation and food, so a significant portion of their salary remains for savings or other needs. 

Goran Savanović from the Trade, Tourism and Hospitality Union of Republika Srpska points out that people are leaving en masse for Croatia and Montenegro because the conditions and earnings are significantly better than in their home countries.

Croatian employers are increasingly offering the status of a 'permanent seasonal worker', which means that the worker can count on a job every season, and between seasons has a certain level of security, such as the right to return or a more favorable contract.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia, workers earn half as much for the same jobs, while the cost of living is similar, so many decide to 'pack their bags' as soon as the season starts. Some from border towns, such as Trebinje, commute daily to work in Dubrovnik, but such an exhausting way of life is not for everyone.

How much can be earned during the season?

Salaries depend on the position and experience, but are roughly:

• Chefs: 1,800 – 3,500 euros
• Bartenders: 1,200 – 1,600 euros
• Waiters: 1,200 – 1,800 euros
• Housekeepers: 1,000 – 1,400 euros

In addition to the salary, in most cases workers are provided with accommodation and two meals a day, and working hours are usually eight to nine hours a day, with one day off per week.

Demand for seasonal workers is growing year by year, and the most sought-after are chefs, waiters, housekeepers, support staff, and receptionists. 

Despite the good conditions, many see seasonal work as a temporary solution, and employers still struggle to find enough workers.