1 June 2026
Immigrate to Macedonia
Explore the options and conditions for relocating to North Macedonia, from entry visas to residence, and get legal assistance from our Macedonian lawyers.
Ready to immigrate to Macedonia in 2026? You should explore the relocation options and conditions before taking this step. Also, it is advisable to access the legal services of a specialist in the field, such as our Macedonian lawyer.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Entry visa requirement (from EU) (YES/NO) | No |
Entry visa requirement (outside EU) (YES/NO) | Depends on nationality (e.g. US, UK, Canadian and Australian citizens need no visa for stays up to 90 days) |
| Types of visas available | – entry visa, – business visa, – employment visa |
| Time frame for obtaining work visa (approx.) | Around 7 days |
| Validity of temporary residence permit | 1 year |
| Temporary residence permit renewal requirements | Proof of personal funds, domicile, clear criminal record |
| Documents for obtaining a residence permit | – valid passport, – health insurance, – bank statements, – proof of accommodation |
| Time frame for obtaining permanent residence (approx.) | After living for at least 5 years in Macedonia with temporary residence |
| Investor Visa availability (YES/NO) | No dedicated investor visa (residence can be based on running a business) |
| Start-up Visa Scheme availability (YES/NO) | No |
| Sponsorship requirement (YES/NO) | Yes |
| Time frame for obtaining citizenship | After living at least 7 years in Macedonia |
| Citizenship/Residency by investment scheme availability (YES/NO) | Citizenship only, for special economic interest; the fixed investment thresholds are being abolished under draft amendments (June 2026) |
| Taxation of foreign citizens | Flat 10% personal income tax (residents on worldwide income, non-residents on Macedonian-source income) |
| Tax benefits for expats | Taxation for non-residents is made on the income generated in Macedonia |
Who can immigrate to Macedonia? Are there any nationality restrictions?
Any EU or non-EU/EEA & Swiss citizen can relocate to Macedonia if they respect the conditions imposed. There are no restrictions imposed; however, the authorities can undergo some checks before granting residency in Macedonia.
What visas are available in Macedonia?
- Short-term visa – is valid for 90 days and is issued for a visit to Macedonia,
- Tourist visa – foreigners can visit this country and live for 90 days, within a period of 180 days,
- Business visa – Those who want to do business in Macedonia can apply for this type of visa. And those who want to participate in training or business meetings must apply for this visa,
- Family visa – Family reunification is possible with this type of visa,
- Student D visa – this type of visa is intended for those who want to stay more than 3 months in Macedonia, for courses. College sponsorship is required,
- Work visa – is issued for a period longer than 3 months, and the authorities require a copy of the employment contract.
How can I obtain a residence permit in North Macedonia in 2026?
Through:
- employment,
- business,
- self-employment.
What are the conditions to get a Macedonian temporary residency?
Present:
- valid passport,
- clear criminal record,
- health insurance policy,
- proof of domicile,
- one passport-size photo,
- proof of work contract/university letter/business plan, etc.
NOTE! If you want to immigrate to Macedonia and start a company in exchange for residency, make sure you present a solid business plan. In the case of self-employed individuals, they must prove they have sufficient financial funds for this type of relocation.
You can discuss more about immigration to Macedonia with our lawyers, and also explore this infographic:
How can I get residency by investment in North Macedonia in 2026?
There is no direct path to get residency by investment in Macedonia. However, foreigners can access a citizenship by investment scheme in Macedonia for residency & nationality in exchange for specific investments.
How can I immigrate to Macedonia as a foreign pensioner?
- apply for temporary residency in Macedonia,
- present bank statements showing at least 6 months of pension,
- prove domiciliation,
- have health insurance,
- present a clear criminal record.
How do I obtain permanent residency in North Macedonia in 2026?
- by proving you have lived in Macedonia for at least 5 years without interruptions with temporary residency,
- by providing financial stability,
- by demonstrating basic Macedonian language knowledge, etc.
You can also watch the following video presentation we have prepared:
Is the work permit in Macedonia the same thing as the residency?
If you want to work as a foreign citizen in Macedonia, you must apply for a work visa. The immigration authorities, in collaboration with the hiring company, will issue the work & residence permits in Macedonia.
How can I reunite with family members in Macedonia?
Through family-based residency, if you have a spouse or any other dependents already living in Macedonia.
What is the time frame for a work permit in Macedonia?
It takes around 28-42 days to obtain a work permit if you intend to immigrate to Macedonia in 2026.
Want to know more about how to immigrate to Macedonia in 2026? Contact our law firm in Macedonia and ask about the formalities imposed & legal services.