Immigrating to Macedonia from New Zealand involves several key aspects that you need to be aware of, especially if you’re planning to live, work, or start a business there. Below, you can find a breakdown of the essential steps and requirements, offered by our specialized immigration lawyers in Macedonia.
Macedonian visas and residence permits
Under the Foreigners Act, foreign nationals wishing to relocate to Macedonia from New Zealand can do this by either starting a private business, working as self-employed individuals, taking a job in a company located in Macedonia or owning sufficient founds to live in this country. In this way, it is possible to apply for a visa or a residence permit:
- Temporary residence permit: If you plan to live and work in Macedonia as a New Zealand citizen, you must apply for a temporary residence permit. This is required for foreign nationals who wish to settle and engage in business or self-employment, work in Macedonia or have sufficient funds to relocate here;
- Personal work permit: along with the residence permit, a personal work permit is necessary if you plan to work in Macedonia (either as an employee or self-employed);
- Family reunification: Your dependents (spouse, children, first-degree relatives) can join you under a family reunification process once your temporary residence permit is approved;
- Student visa: If you are moving to Macedonia for educational purposes (such as enrolling in a university or other educational institution), you may need a student visa;
- Residence/work permit by investment: Macedonia has some avenues for attracting foreign investment, though not formally labeled as an “investor visa”. Individuals who invest a significant amount in a Macedonian business or project may be eligible for residence and work permits in order to immigrate to Macedonia.
Get support from our specialized attorneys in Macedonia and benefit from a better understanding of the possible visas and permits to apply for in order to relocate to Macedonia from New Zealand.
Requirements and documentation to move to Macedonia from New Zealand
To immigrate to Macedonia from New Zealand, you will need to meet specific requirements based on your purpose for relocating (e.g., work, business, family reunification). Below are the general steps and key requirements for relocation to Macedonia and obtaining a residence permit:
- having a detailed business plan (if starting a business);
- presenting proof of financial means: this could include savings, investment capital, or proof of income from employment;
- submitting proof of accommodation: a lease or property ownership;
- valid passport: at least six months beyond your planned stay in Macedonia;
- police clearance: clean criminal record from both New Zealand and Macedonia;
- health insurance;
- business registration certificate (if applicable);
- work permit (if applicable).
Our Macedonian lawyers are at your disposal to offer guidance in following the right steps in order to obtain a residence permit in Macedonia as a New Zealand citizen.
Permanent residency in Macedonia
After moving to Macedonia from New Zealand on a temporary residence permit for five years, you may qualify for permanent residency, provided you meet certain conditions (such as not exceeding the allowable absence period). Permanent residency in Macedonia for New Zealand citizens allows for indefinite stay and continued work or business activity in the country. While not technically a “visa,” this status grants indefinite stay and the ability to work or operate a business in Macedonia without needing to renew permits.
Citizenship in Macedonia
After eight years of continuous residence in Macedonia, you may apply for Macedonian citizenship. This may require knowledge of the Macedonian language and understanding of the country’s history and values. Macedonia also allows dual citizenship, so you do not need to give up your New Zealand nationality to become a citizen of Macedonia.
Benefit from the assistance of our immigration lawyers in Macedonia in order to find details about relocating to Macedonia from New Zealand and, later on, obtaining Macedonian citizenship.
Macedonia vs. New Zealand statistics
While these two countries have a different cultural, economic and political perspective, each of them has their own key aspects, as mentioned in official data:
- Population (2025 estimate): 2,083,374 in North Macedonia and 5,019,944 in New Zealand;
- Diplomatic missions abroad (estimated): North Macedonia has 55 and New Zealand – 72;
- Travel freedom (2025): North Macedonia passport holders can visit visa-free 82 countries, while New Zealanders -135;
- Foreign missions hosted: North Macedonia has 41, while New Zealand – 115.
For more information and support regarding immigration to Macedonia from New Zealand, do not hesitate to contact our Macedonian law firm.