Croatian Caregivers – Legally Employing Care Staff from Croatia
Demographic change and the rising need for care present major challenges for many families in Germany. Often, elderly or dependent individuals wish to remain in their own homes as long as possible. One solution can be employing Croatian caregivers. In this article, you’ll learn how to legally employ care staff from Croatia, the benefits involved, and important aspects to consider.
Why Choose Caregivers from Croatia?
Cultural Affinity and Family Values
Since 2013, Croatia has been a member of the European Union, providing a legal basis for the free movement of workers. Cultural similarities and shared family values between Croatia and Germany facilitate the integration of Croatian caregivers into German households. In Croatia, family is highly valued, and caring for elderly family members is traditionally handled within the family. Croatian caregivers bring these values to Germany, often demonstrating high empathy and a strong sense of responsibility.
Language Skills
Many Croatian caregivers have a good command of German or are willing to learn. This greatly facilitates communication and cohabitation.
Legal Framework
Free Movement of Workers within the EU
As EU citizens, Croatian nationals enjoy the freedom of movement for workers within the European Union, meaning they can work in Germany without special permits.
Posting Model and Freedom to Provide Services
There are two common models for legally employing Croatian caregivers:
Posting Model: In this model, a Croatian company posts the caregiver to Germany, and they remain insured within the Croatian social security system. It’s important that the caregiver carries an A1 certificate, confirming that they are insured in their home country.
Employer Model: Here, you directly employ the caregiver as an employer. This requires adhering to all employment laws, including a written employment contract, minimum wage, working time regulations, and social security contributions.
Minimum Wage and Working Hours
Croatian caregivers are also subject to Germany’s minimum wage and working time regulations. The current legal minimum wage is €12.00 per hour (as of October 2023). The maximum working time is 48 hours per week, with rest periods that must be observed.
Social Security and Taxes
In the case of direct employment, you are required to register the caregiver with social security agencies and pay the relevant contributions. With the posting model, the sending company in the caregiver's home country takes on this responsibility.
Experience and Qualification of Croatian Caregivers
Care Experience and Training
Many Croatian caregivers have experience in elderly care, either through caring for family members or professional roles. Some also have formal care training or have completed caregiver courses, ensuring a high level of quality in the care provided.
Interpersonal Skills
The high regard for the elderly and family orientation in Croatia contributes to compassionate and respectful caregiving. Croatian caregivers are often highly motivated to establish a trusting relationship with those they care for.
Tasks and Services
Support in Daily Life
- Household Management: Shopping, cooking, laundry, ironing, and cleaning.
- Basic Care: Assistance with personal hygiene, dressing, and mobility.
- Accompaniment: Escorting to medical appointments, walks, or social activities.
- Companionship and Care: Engaging in conversation, reading, and organizing leisure activities.
Limits of Responsibilities
Croatian caregivers are not permitted to perform medical treatment tasks, such as administering medication, wound care, or injections. These tasks must be handled by a home care service.
How to Find a Suitable Croatian Caregiver?
Placement Agencies
Specialized placement agencies, such as Medexcare.de, can assist you in finding a suitable caregiver. They manage selection, handle administrative tasks, and ensure compliance with all legal requirements.
Considering Individual Needs
When selecting a caregiver, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences:
- Language Skills
- Experience and Qualifications
- Personal Attributes: Age, interests, cultural background
Direct Employment
Alternatively, you can hire the caregiver directly, though you will need to fulfill all employer obligations and handle legal formalities yourself.
Benefits of Employing Croatian Caregivers
- Staying at Home: The dependent person can remain in familiar surroundings.
- Individualized Care: The caregiver can cater specifically to the individual’s needs.
- Cultural and Linguistic Proximity: This makes communication and cohabitation easier.
- Cost Savings: Often more affordable than residential care facilities.
- Relief for Family Members: Family members are supported in providing care.
Challenges and Important Considerations
Legal Security
Ensure that employing the caregiver is legal. Pay attention to valid employment contracts, adherence to minimum wage laws, and working time regulations.
Language Barriers
Although many Croatian caregivers speak German, language barriers may arise. Determine in advance the level of language proficiency required.
Privacy
Living with a caregiver requires adjustments from both sides. It’s essential to establish clear agreements and mutual respect.
Supplementary Care Services
For medical services, you may need to involve a home care service, which can often be covered by long-term care insurance.
Conclusion
Employing Croatian caregivers offers a valuable opportunity to provide individual and compassionate care for dependent individuals within their own homes. With proper preparation and compliance with legal requirements, you can enhance the quality of life for your loved ones while receiving valuable support yourself.
Medexcare.de is here as a competent partner to assist you through every step—from selecting a suitable caregiver to organizing and ensuring legal security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is employing Croatian caregivers legal?
Yes, Croatian nationals may work in Germany due to the EU’s free movement of workers. It’s important to adhere to all legal requirements, such as minimum wage, working time laws, and social security.
What tasks do Croatian caregivers perform?
They provide household support, basic care, escort to appointments, and companionship. They are not permitted to perform medical treatment tasks.
How do I find a suitable caregiver from Croatia?
Specialized placement agencies, such as Medexcare.de, can assist you in finding and selecting the right caregiver.
What costs should I expect?
Costs vary depending on the model (posting or direct employment) and individual requirements. In addition to caregiver wages, agency fees and social security contributions may apply.
What should I keep in mind when hiring?
With direct employment, you are the employer and must fulfill all legal obligations. In the posting model, the foreign company takes on these responsibilities.
How about the language barrier?
Many Croatian caregivers speak German. Determine the required language skills in advance.
Can the caregiver perform medical tasks?
No, medical treatment care must be performed by qualified professionals.
Sources and Further Information
- Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs: Free Movement of Workers
- German Pension Insurance: Social Security in Europe
- Federal Employment Agency: Employment of Foreign Workers
- Consumer Advice Centre: Legal Employment of Caregivers from Abroad
- Medexcare.de: Caregivers from Croatia
Note: This article serves as general information and does not replace legal advice. For specific questions, please consult a specialist attorney or the relevant authorities.
