Electricity

The electrical current is 230 volts (50Hz). European round pin attachment plugs and Schuko plugs are in use.

Language

Macedonian is the official language. English is widely spoken; German is also common, while French is less so.

Money

The unit of currency is the Macedonian denar (MKD), divided into 100 deni. Euros and US dollars are easy to exchange; credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels and increasingly used elsewhere. Google Pay works with some local banks and is accepted at many contactless terminals. Apple Pay, however, is not yet supported by banks in North Macedonia.

Tipping

Waiters typically receive tips of around 10 percent, unless a service charge is included. Tipping is mainly expected in restaurants and not in most other services.

Health

There are no major health risks in North Macedonia, and travel is usually problem‑free. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B are recommended, and visitors should be up to date on MMR and tetanus‑diphtheria. A rabies vaccination is advised only for travellers at risk of animal exposure, such as wildlife workers or those on long rural stays, rather than for typical tourists. Tap water is treated and generally safe, but visitors should boil, filter, or use bottled water if they have a sensitive stomach. Healthcare facilities and pharmacies in Skopje and other cities are good, though deposits and private care are common. Comprehensive travel medical insurance, including emergency repatriation, is strongly advised, and it's best for visitors to bring any prescription medications they need, along with a letter from their doctor.

Safety

North Macedonia is a relatively safe country to visit. Petty crime and pick pocketing can occur; visitors should be especially cautious at the large market in Skopje.

Local customs

Locals tend to be curious about other cultures, so visitors might be asked personal questions that could feel intrusive, such as about their income or home. Most people communicate politely but directly. Time is viewed flexibly, and being late to social events is generally acceptable. While same-sex relationships are legal, they remain a sensitive topic, and public openness about LGBTQ+ issues is limited.

Doing business

Business attire is formal, with men typically wearing dark suits and ties, and women opting for conservative dresses or suits. Firm handshakes are the standard greeting; titles and last names are used unless first names are invited. Exchanging business cards is customary and is best done with both hands or the right hand, accompanied by a slight nod. Punctuality is appreciated but not rigidly enforced. Gift giving is not obligatory but appreciated in close relationships; overly expensive or flashy gifts should be avoided. Maintaining a respectful and patient demeanour is important, as building trust and relationships often takes time.

Duty free

Visitors to North Macedonia may import 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco, one litre of spirits and two litres of wine. The import of arms and ammunition is prohibited.

Communications

The international dialling code for North Macedonia is +389. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Travellers can purchase local SIM cards for unlocked phones; WiFi is widespread.

Passport & Visa

It's recommended that foreign passengers to North Macedonia hold return or onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. Once in North Macedonia, foreign visitors must register with the local police in the town where they are staying within 24 hours of arriving, unless they're staying in a hotel. If that's the case, they will automatically be registered. It's highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry requirements

US citizens must have a passport that is valid for a minimum of 90 days from their arrival date in North Macedonia. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

British citizens must have a passport that is valid for a minimum of 90 days from their arrival date in North Macedonia. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for a minimum of 90 days from their arrival date in North Macedonia. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for a minimum of 90 days from their arrival date in North Macedonia. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for a minimum of 90 days from their arrival date in North Macedonia. A visa is required.

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for a minimum of 90 days from their arrival date in North Macedonia. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for a minimum of 90 days from their arrival date in North Macedonia. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Useful contacts

North Macedonia Tourism: www.macedonia-timeless.com/eng

192 (police), 193 (fire and rescue) 194 (medical emergencies), 196 (roadside assistance)