Immigration
The Foreigners Act with a combined residence and work approach
As a non-EU state, North Macedonia applies the Foreigners Act to all non-nationals. Temporary residence is granted for work, study, family and business, with work authorisation under the employment of foreigners legislation.
Key rules
- Temporary residence permits are granted for a defined purpose and must be renewed.
- Work authorisation is issued by the Employment Service Agency.
- Permanent residence generally requires five years of continuous lawful residence.
Governing law
- Foreigners Act (Zakon za strancite)
- Act on the Employment of Foreigners
In practice
Regional CEFTA and Open Balkan arrangements ease labour mobility with neighbouring states in certain sectors.