- Affordable Cost of Living: North Macedonia offers a low cost of living compared to many Western European countries, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious individuals.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: The country boasts a diverse cultural history with numerous historical sites, festivals, and traditions that reflect its ancient heritage.
- Scenic Beauty: North Macedonia is home to stunning landscapes, including lakes, mountains, and national parks, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
- Friendly Locals: The people of North Macedonia are known for their hospitality and warmth, making it easier for newcomers to feel welcomed and integrated into the community.
- Growing Economy: The country has a developing economy with increasing opportunities in various sectors, particularly for entrepreneurs and investors.
- Strategic Location: Located in the heart of the Balkans, North Macedonia provides convenient access to neighbouring countries and major European cities, ideal for travel and business connections.
- Language Barrier: Macedonian is the official language, and while some people speak English, particularly in urban areas, language can still be a significant barrier, especially in more rural regions.
- Bureaucracy: Navigating bureaucratic processes, such as obtaining permits and dealing with local administration, can take time and effort.
- Economic Challenges: While the economy is growing, North Macedonia still faces financial challenges, including lower wages and higher unemployment rates compared to Western Europe.
- Healthcare System: While accessible, the healthcare system may not meet the standards found in more developed countries, with issues related to funding, infrastructure, and quality of care.
- Political Instability: The region has a history of political instability, and occasional tensions can affect daily life and the overall sense of security.
- Limited Job Opportunities: Job opportunities, particularly for highly specialised or high-paying positions, can be limited, making it challenging for expatriates to find suitable employment.
North Macedonia welcomes a diverse range of individuals, including EU/EEA and non-EU nationals, who move for various reasons such as employment, education, family reunification, or business opportunities. It is also an attractive destination for retirees, digital nomads, and investors looking to explore the country’s affordable cost of living, rich cultural heritage, and scenic beauty.
North Macedonia offers various work visas for non-EU citizens as follows:
Temporary Residence Permit for Employment:
For non-EU/EEA nationals with a job offer from a Macedonian employer, allowing them to live and work in the country.
Temporary Residence Permit for Seasonal Work:
For individuals working in seasonal jobs, typically in agriculture or tourism, for up to six months.
Temporary Residence Permit for Self-Employment:
For entrepreneurs or freelancers who wish to start and run their own business in North Macedonia.
Temporary Residence Permit for Intra-Company Transfer:
For employees of multinational companies transferring to a branch or affiliate in North Macedonia.
Temporary Residence Permit for EU Blue Card Holders:
For highly skilled workers with an EU Blue Card, enabling them to work in North Macedonia.
North Macedonia offers a Citizenship by Investment program. To qualify, applicants must make a significant investment in the country, such as a direct investment of at least €200,000 in a private investment fund or €400,000 in a real estate project approved by the government. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate a clean criminal record, provide proof of the lawful origin of their funds, and pass due diligence checks. The program also includes fees for application processing and legal services, which can vary but generally add several thousand euros to the total cost. This pathway allows investors and their families to obtain Macedonian citizenship, granting them the right to live, work, and study in North Macedonia and access various benefits associated with citizenship.
With the rise of remote work, digital nomad visas have become increasingly essential. North Macedonia has been exploring a digital nomad visa program since February 2021, but it has yet to be implemented. When it launches, the application process is expected to involve scheduling an appointment with a North Macedonian embassy, gathering necessary documents such as a valid passport, health insurance, proof of employment, and a clean criminal record, submitting these documents, paying any applicable fees, and waiting for a response. The visa’s duration, processing time, and cost are currently unknown but will likely follow standard practices of one to two years’ validity, with processing times ranging from 30 to 45 days. North Macedonia offers a favourable environment for digital nomads with high-speed internet, safety, beautiful landscapes, and a low cost of living—estimated at €1,751.20 for a family of four and €516.90 for a single person. The country’s affordable living expenses include €4.87 for a meal in an inexpensive restaurant and €260.93 for rent in the city centre for a one-bedroom apartment.
Criteria for
North Macedonia
Work Visa
● Temporary Residence Permit for Employment
Requires a valid job offer from a Macedonian employer.
● Temporary Residence Permit for Seasonal Work
Requires a temporary job offer in a seasonal industry, such as agriculture or tourism.
● Temporary Residence Permit for Self-Employment
Requires proof of starting or running a business in North Macedonia.
● Temporary Residence Permit for Intra-Company Transfer
Requires employment with a multinational company and a transfer to a Macedonian branch.
● Temporary Residence Permit for EU Blue Card Holders
Requires possession of an EU Blue Card and a high-skill job offer in North Macedonia.
The employer must submit several documents to obtain a work permit for a foreign employee. These include:
- Employment contract
- Proof of business registration
- Labour market test results
- Company registration documents
- Job description
- Proof of advertisement efforts
- Employee’s qualifications
- Financial documents
- Health insurance proof
- Employment contract
- Labour market test results
- Proof of business registration
- Job description
- Proof of advertisement efforts
- Employee’s qualifications
- Health insurance proof
- Seasonal job offer
- Labour market test results
- Proof of qualifications
- Employment contract
- Health insurance proof
- Business plan
- Proof of financial resources
- Business registration documents
- Proof of investment
- Health insurance proof
- Transfer request letter
- Employment contract with the parent company
- Proof of prior employment
- Job description for the Macedonian branch
- Health insurance proof
- EU Blue Card
- High-skill job offer
- Proof of salary
- Employment contract
- Health insurance proof
Step 1: Preparation
- Collect all required documents specific to the visa type.
- Secure a job offer from a Macedonian employer if applicable.
Step 2: Visa Application
- Apply for the visa at a North Macedonian embassy or consulate.
- Submit all required documents with the application.
Step 3: Processing
- North Macedonian authorities review the application and documents.
- Provide any additional information or attend an interview if requested.
Step 4: Decision
- Receive the visa or permit if approved.
- Get notified of the decision and instructions for visa collection.
Step 5: Travel and Arrival
- Travel to North Macedonia using the granted visa.
- Register with local authorities or the Ministry of Interior if required.
Step 6: Commence Work
- Begin work according to the terms of the visa.
- Temporary Residence Permit for Employment: Approximately €100 to €150
- Temporary Residence Permit for Seasonal Work: About €50 to €100
- Temporary Residence Permit for Self-Employment: Around €150 to €200
- Temporary Residence Permit for Intra-Company Transfer: Approximately €100 to €150
- Temporary Residence Permit for EU Blue Card Holders: About €200 to €250