July the 18th, 2026 – Croatia has once again earned international recognition for something many visitors discover within minutes of arriving: Croatians are exceptionally good English speakers.
Yahoo reports that a new roundup of countries with the highest levels of English proficiency among non-native speakers highlights Croatia as one of the global leaders, reinforcing the country’s reputation as one of the easiest places to visit without speaking the local language.
croatians are the world’s second best english speakers
According to the latest EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), Croatia ranks second globally among 123 countries and territories where English is not the native language, trailing only the Netherlands. The country is classified in the institute’s highest category – “Very High Proficiency.”
The ranking is based on the English test results of more than two million adults worldwide and has become one of the most widely referenced international comparisons of English proficiency. While the methodology measures those who choose to take the test rather than an entire national population, Croatia’s consistently strong performance has attracted attention for years.
why is the english language level so good in croatia?
There is no absolute and single explanation, but several factors have contributed to Croatia’s exceptional level of English proficiency.
Unlike in many European countries, foreign films and television programmes are generally shown in their original language with Croatian subtitles rather than dubbed, exposing viewers to English from an early age. English is also introduced early in the education system, while the country’s tourism industry provides millions of opportunities each year for everyday conversations with international visitors. For many Croatians, speaking English has become less of an academic skill and more of a practical necessity, whether working in tourism, studying abroad, doing business internationally or simply consuming online content.
Anyone who has travelled around Croatia will likely recognise the pattern. From hotel receptionists and restaurant staff to taxi drivers, shop assistants and younger generations in general, communicating in English is rarely a challenge. This widespread proficiency has become one of Croatia’s quiet competitive advantages, particularly in tourism, helping visitors feel comfortable from the moment they arrive.
an incredible ranking for a small nation of less than four million people
Strong English skills also benefit Croatia beyond the tourism sector. As businesses become increasingly international and digital industries continue to grow, English proficiency gives Croatian professionals greater access to global markets, education and employment opportunities.
For a country of fewer than four million people, ranking among the very best English speakers in the world is another reminder that Croatia continues to punch very much above its weight on the international stage.
