North Macedonia, located in the heart of the Balkans, is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for foreign workers. With its growing economy, affordable cost of living, and demand for both skilled and semi-skilled labour, the country offers a unique opportunity for those looking to live and work in Southeast Europe. While it is not yet an EU member, it is an EU candidate country, which gives it close economic and cultural ties to the European Union.

This guide provides everything you need to know about working in North Macedonia — from job opportunities and visa requirements to permanent residence and beyond.

Country Basics

• Capital: Skopje
• Currency: Macedonian Denar (MKD)
• Population: ~2.1 million
• EU/Schengen Membership: Not yet, but a candidate for EU membership
• Language: Macedonian (English widely used in business)

Safety, Social Benefits & Emergency Services

North Macedonia is considered safe for foreigners. Violent crime is rare, and locals are generally friendly and welcoming.

• Emergency Number: 112 (covers police, ambulance, and fire services).
• Employees with legal contracts are covered by the social insurance system, which provides access to healthcare, maternity leave, pensions, and unemployment support.

Job Opportunities in North Macedonia

Foreigners can find work in a range of industries. While wages are lower than in Western Europe, living costs are also significantly cheaper.

Blue-Collar Jobs

White-Collar Jobs

 Minimum Wage: ~€340/month
Average Salary: ~€700/month

Where to Find Jobs

The most reliable way to find legitimate job openings is through:

• Employment Service Agency of North Macedonia (AVRM): https://av.gov.mk
• International recruitment platforms, such as Moving2Europe.eu, connect foreign workers with trusted employers.

Types of Work Permits & Visas

Foreigners need both a visa and a work permit to work legally.

• Temporary Work Permit: For standard employment. Valid for 1 year, renewable.
• Seasonal Work Permit: For agriculture, tourism, or hospitality. Valid for up to 6 months.
• Highly Skilled Permit: For specialised professionals, often valid for more extended periods.

Visas:

• Type D Visa (Long-Stay): Required for foreign nationals who intend to work and reside in the Republic of North Macedonia.
• Type C Visa (Short-Stay): For business visits or assignments up to 90 days.

Validity:

• Standard work permits are valid for 1 year and are renewable.
• Seasonal permits: 6 months.
• Highly skilled permits: 1–2 years, depending on contract.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Secure a Job Offer – Find employment through AVRM or a licensed recruiter.
2. Employer Applies for Work Permit – The employer submits documents to the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy.
3. Prepare Documents – Gather passport, contract, health insurance, accommodation proof, financial means, and police clearance.
4. Apply for Type D Visa – Submit your application at the nearest North Macedonian embassy or consulate.
5. Travel to North Macedonia – Once your visa is approved.
6. Obtain Residence & Work Permit – Collect your permit from local authorities upon arrival.

Required Documents Checklist

• Valid passport
• Signed job offer or employment contract
• Visa application form
• Passport-sized photos
• Proof of qualifications/work experience
• Health insurance valid in North Macedonia
• Proof of accommodation (rental or employer-provided)
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements)
• Police clearance certificate
• Visa and permit application fee receipts

Housing & Real Estate

• Rentals are affordable compared to Western Europe.
• Most landlords require 1–2 months’ deposit.
• Always sign a written lease.
• Verify property ownership via the Agency for Real Estate Cadastre: https://katastar.gov.mk

If Your Visa Is Refused

• You will receive a written explanation.
• You have 15 days to submit an appeal with supporting documents.
• Appeals are reviewed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the related authority.

Permanent Residence (PR) in North Macedonia

Eligibility:

• Usually, after 5 years of continuous legal stay.
• Must show proof of legal income, accommodation, and health insurance.
• Clean criminal record and full compliance with immigration laws.

Documents Required:

• Passport
• Previous residence permits
• Proof of income (employment contract, tax records)
• Proof of accommodation
• Health insurance
• Police clearance
• Social insurance contributions

Timeline:

• PR applications take around 2–4 months to process.
• Citizenship is possible after 8 years of residence (with language and integration requirements).

Key Government Resources

• Employment Service Agency (AVRM): https://av.gov.mk
• Ministry of Labour and Social Policy: https://www.mtsp.gov.mk
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.mfa.gov.mk
• Agency for Real Estate Cadastre: https://katastar.gov.mk

How Moving2Europe.EU Helps You

Migrating to North Macedonia can feel overwhelming without guidance. At Moving2Europe.eu, we make it easier:

• Access to verified job opportunities across industries.
• Step-by-step help with visa and work permit applications.
• Support with document preparation and embassy submissions.
• Advice on housing, insurance, and relocation.
• Long-term support for appeals, renewals, family reunification, and PR applications.

 Ready to take the next step? Register Now

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a North Macedonia work visa?

A visa that allows foreign nationals to enter the country for employment legally.

2. Who needs a work visa for North Macedonia?

All non-citizens, unless exempt by regional visa agreements.

3. How long does the visa process take?

Typically 30–60 days.

4. Can I apply without a job offer?

No, a valid job offer is required.

5. How long is a standard work permit valid?

Usually 1 year, renewable.

6. What types of permits exist?

Temporary, seasonal, and highly skilled permits.

7. What visa type is required for work?

A long-stay Type D visa.

8. What documents do I need?

Passport, contract, health insurance, proof of accommodation, police clearance, and financial means.

9. Do I need health insurance?

Yes, it’s mandatory.

10. Can family members join me?

Yes, through family reunification permits.

11. What is the minimum wage in North Macedonia?

Around €340/month.

12. What is the average salary?

Around €700/month.

13. How do I find jobs?

Through the AVRM portal or licensed agencies.

14. Do I need to speak Macedonian?

Not always; English or regional languages may be enough for some jobs.

15. Can I change employers on the same permit?

No, you must apply for a new permit.

16. What happens if my visa is rejected?

You can appeal within 15 days.

17. How long until I can get permanent residence?

After 5 years of continuous stay.

18. What documents are needed for PR?

Passport, previous permits, income proof, accommodation, insurance, police clearance, and social contributions.

19. When can I apply for citizenship?

After 8 years of residence.

20. How can Moving2Europe? Can you help me?

By connecting you with employers, guiding visa processes, and supporting relocation and PR.  Register Now