North Macedonia Tourist Visa Requirements and Application Guide

Visa Requirement Summary

If you're planning to visit North Macedonia for tourism purposes, you will need to apply for a tourist visa. The tourist visa allows you to stay in the country for a specific period of time, typically up to 90 days. To apply for a tourist visa, you will need to submit a completed application form, a valid passport, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, and a return ticket. It's important to apply for the tourist visa well in advance of your planned trip to ensure enough time for processing. Once approved, you can enjoy exploring the beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of North Macedonia.

Stay Duration: 90 days

Quick Facts

Tourist visas for North Macedonia are valid for up to 90 days. Citizens of many countries can enter visa-free. Check requirements before traveling.

Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather necessary documents: Valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, proof of sufficient funds, and travel insurance.

2. Visit the official website of the North Macedonian embassy or consulate in your country to download the visa application form.

3. Fill out the application form accurately and completely. Make sure to provide all required information and sign the form.

4. Submit the completed application form along with the required documents to the nearest North Macedonian embassy or consulate in your country.

5. Pay the visa application fee as per the embassy's guidelines. The fee may vary depending on your nationality and type of visa.

6. Wait for processing: The visa processing time may vary, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.

7. Once your visa application is approved, you will receive a visa sticker in your passport. Make sure to check all the details on the visa sticker for accuracy.

8. Travel to North Macedonia

Online Application Links

1. North Macedonia Tourist Visa Application Portal: https://econsulate.gov.mk/en/services/entry-visa/tourist-visa

2. North Macedonia Official Website: https://www.mfa.gov.mk/en/

Documents Required

List of Documents

1. Valid passport

2. Recent passport-sized photos

3. Completed visa application form

4. Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation, invitation letter)

5. Travel itinerary (flight tickets, travel insurance)

6. Proof of financial means (bank statements, sponsorship letter)

7. Letter of employment or enrollment

8. Travel history (previous visas, stamps)

9. Medical insurance

10. Visa fee payment receipt

Ensure all documents are in English or translated into English. Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances. Check with the North Macedonian embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

Fees

Visa Fees

The visa application fee for North Macedonia is $160 USD. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid when submitting the visa application. Additional fees may apply for certain types of visas or services. It is important to check the most up-to-date information on visa fees before applying.

Additional Costs

In addition to the standard application fee, there may be other associated costs when applying for a visa to North Macedonia. These costs could include service fees, express processing fees, or any other related expenses. It is important to inquire about these additional costs before submitting your application to ensure you are fully prepared.

Processing Time

Standard Processing Time

The standard processing time for visa approval in North Macedonia is typically around 15-30 days. However, this can vary depending on the type of visa being applied for and the individual circumstances of the applicant. It is important to submit all required documents and information accurately to avoid any delays in the processing of your visa application. It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for any unexpected delays in the processing time.

Express Processing Options

If you need your application processed quickly in North Macedonia, you may have the option to expedite the process for an additional fee. This can significantly reduce the processing time for your application. Contact the relevant government agency or consulate for more information on expedited processing options available to you. Keep in mind that not all applications may be eligible for expedited processing, so it's important to check with the appropriate authorities before making any decisions.

Validity

Visa Duration

Visa Duration for North Macedonia: The visa is typically valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. Extensions may be possible for longer stays.

Entry Type

Single-entry for North Macedonia.

Extensions

Extension Process

If you wish to extend your visa in North Macedonia, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Visit the nearest police station or the Ministry of Interior office at least 15 days before your current visa expires.

2. Fill out the necessary application form for visa extension.

3. Provide all required documents, such as a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds to support yourself, and proof of accommodation in North Macedonia.

4. Pay the visa extension fee, which may vary depending on the type of visa you hold.

5. Wait for the authorities to process your application. This may take a few weeks, so it is important to apply for an extension well in advance of your visa expiration date.

6. Once your visa extension is approved, you will receive a new visa with an extended validity period.

It is important to note that not all visas can be extended, so it is best to check with the immigration authorities to see if your visa is eligible for extension.

Extension Fees

Extension fees for visas in North Macedonia vary depending on the type of visa and the length of the extension. Generally, the cost of extending a visa ranges from 10 to 50 euros. It is important to note that these fees are subject to change and it is recommended to check with the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, there may be additional fees or requirements for extending a visa, such as providing proof of financial means or a valid reason for the extension.

Validity of Extensions

In North Macedonia, the validity of visa extensions varies depending on the type of visa. Generally, tourist visas can be extended for up to 90 days, while other types of visas, such as work or study visas, may be extended for longer periods. It is important to check with the relevant authorities for specific information on the duration for which a visa can be extended in North Macedonia.

Additional Information

Special Requirements

Travelers to North Macedonia are not required to have any specific medical exams or vaccination certificates to enter the country. However, it is recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and influenza.

It is also advisable to have travel health insurance to cover any medical expenses while in North Macedonia. In case of emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Please note that the tap water in North Macedonia is generally safe to drink, but it is recommended to stick to bottled water to avoid any potential stomach issues.

Overall, North Macedonia is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers, but it is always a good idea to take standard precautions such as practicing good hygiene, staying hydrated, and being aware of your surroundings. Enjoy your trip to North Macedonia!

Travel Advisories

As of the latest update, North Macedonia does not have any major travel advisories or warnings issued by the US Department of State. However, it is always recommended to exercise normal precautions while traveling, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding demonstrations, and keeping your belongings secure. It is also advised to stay informed about local news and follow any instructions from local authorities. Overall, North Macedonia is generally considered a safe destination for travelers.

Local Laws and Customs

When traveling to North Macedonia, it's important to be aware of the local laws and customs to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Respect the local culture: North Macedonia is a conservative country, so it's important to dress modestly and behave respectfully in public places.

2. Alcohol and smoking: The legal drinking age in North Macedonia is 18, and smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces.

3. Drug laws: Possession and use of illegal drugs are strictly prohibited and can result in severe penalties.

4. Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas or of religious sites.

5. Driving: Make sure to have all necessary documents with you while driving, including a valid driver's license, insurance, and registration.

6. LGBTQ+ rights: While North Macedonia is making progress in LGBTQ+ rights, it's still a conservative society, so it's important to be mindful of public displays of affection

Quick Facts About the Country

North Macedonia is a small country located in the Balkan region of Europe. It gained independence from Yugoslavia in 1991 and was known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia until 2019. The capital city is Skopje, which is also the largest city in the country.

North Macedonia is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including stunning mountains, lakes, and national parks. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Slavic civilizations. Traditional Macedonian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, with dishes like kebabs, burek, and ajvar being popular.

North Macedonia is also home to the Ohrid Lake, one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, and the city of Ohrid, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The country is a melting pot of different cultures, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

North Macedonia (MK)