When you compare rental prices in Croatia’s capital, the daily rate is usually your main focus. The deposit requirement often gets less attention, but it temporarily blocks a significant amount on your credit card. A car rental deposit in Zagreb is a standard part of the rental agreement, and the amount depends on the vehicle category, insurance coverage, and the company you choose.
Understanding this before you arrive helps you plan your budget properly and avoid problems at pickup. Our guide explains typical deposit amounts, payment methods, and how refunds work when renting a car in Zagreb.
A car rental deposit (also called a security deposit) is an amount that is blocked on your credit or debit card when you pick up the car. It’s not part of your rental fee but a guarantee to cover any damage, the insurance excess, or traffic fines.
Once the rental ends and no issues are found, the hold is released, and the funds return to your account. The deposit is a refundable guarantee, whereas the rental fee is the actual payment for using the car.
Car rental firms in Croatia require a deposit as insurance. They often set the deposit equal to the car’s insurance excess (deductible). Some rental companies base the deposit on the car category and excess.
Deposit amounts vary widely by vehicle type and company.
As a rule of thumb, expect higher security deposits for larger vehicle categories. For example, a compact car typically requires a deposit of around €800, regardless of whether you rent it for a short stay (2 days) or a longer period (6 days). For larger categories such as an SUV, the required deposit is usually higher, averaging around €1,000, again generally consistent regardless of rental duration.
More broadly across Croatia, deposits commonly range between €1,000 and €3,500, depending on the car category and rental company. Premium and luxury vehicles are at the upper end of this scale, while smaller economy and compact cars require lower security holds.
Keep in mind that the car hire deposit in Zagreb is blocked (not charged) on your credit card. It will be released when you return the vehicle, in accordance with the rental terms.
Longer rentals mean a higher total price, which can indirectly raise the deposit. The deposit may (authorisation) depend on the rental price, the vehicle type and category, and the coverage chosen.
In other words, a two-week rental (with a higher cost) might have a larger hold than a one-day rental of the same car. However, many agencies set a fixed deposit per car group regardless of duration. Always check your booking terms.
In Zagreb, most companies require a credit card as a deposit guarantee. Debit cards and cash are rarely accepted for the security hold. Below, we explain the common policies on payment methods.
A standard credit card is usually mandatory for the security deposit. In most cases, the card must be issued in the name of the main driver. Rental companies place a security hold on the card, so ensure there is sufficient available credit to cover both the rental cost and the deposit amount. If your credit card does not have a high enough limit, the rental company may refuse to release the vehicle.
Some renters wonder about debit cards. Certain companies will accept certain debit cards only if they can pre-authorise a hold. However, many agencies are strict. In short, unless a supplier specifically advertises debit-friendly policies, you should plan on using a credit card. If you use debit, expect a possibly higher deposit or extra ID checks.
Once you return the car in good condition, your car rental security deposit in Zagreb will be released. However, “released” doesn’t always mean the funds will appear back in your account instantly. Read on to understand the typical timelines and what to expect.
Typically, the rental company submits the release request immediately after the vehicle is returned and checked. Under ideal conditions, your card issuer processes this quickly. However, banks can still take time. Most travellers wait about 10 to 30 days for the hold to drop. It’s normal to see the funds back in 1 to 4 weeks after return.
Even after the rental company asks the bank to clear the hold, the bank may still need a few business days to process it. Some rental companies may request the release within 24 hours of the vehicle's return, but card issuers can take several working days to finalise the transaction.
If the car has any new damage, missing fuel, or unpaid fines, the rental will deduct those charges from your deposit. For instance, if you return the car without a full tank, you’ll pay for the missing fuel (and sometimes a refuelling fee) from the hold.
The rental agency can charge your card for these extra costs, reducing your refund amount. They may also charge a fee if they have to process your traffic ticket. Keep all receipts and discuss any issues at drop-off to avoid surprises.
If your car rental deposit in Zagreb seems stuck, start contacting the rental branch directly. An email or call can often resolve minor delays or misunderstandings. If you don’t receive a clear response, check with your bank to confirm whether the hold has been released.
You can also reach out to your credit card provider for further clarification. Be sure to keep your rental agreement and return documentation, as these serve as proof of when you returned the vehicle and its condition at drop-off.
A car rental deposit in Zagreb is just a temporary block on your card. Return the car in the agreed condition, including a full tank, no new damage, and no overdue fines. If you do, your car rental experience will go smoothly, and your deposit will be released without hassle.
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Typically, a car rental deposit in Zagreb ranges around €800 for an economy car, up to €1000 for SUVs and luxury vehicles.
The rental company releases the hold as soon as you return the car. However, your bank then processes the refund. This usually takes 1 to 3 weeks. It’s normal to wait a few business days or even up to a month before the funds reappear in your account.
In most cases, no. A credit card in the renter’s name is almost always required. Debit cards are rarely accepted for the deposit, and cash is almost never allowed.
