Complete Guide to North Macedonia: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts
Your ultimate 2025 Complete Guide to North Macedonia – the landlocked Balkan heart of ancient lakes and Ottoman bazaars. Enjoy 90-day visa-free entry for 100+ nationalities, explore Skopje's old bazaar, sail Lake Ohrid (UNESCO), and hike Matka Canyon. Discover the new Citizenship by Investment program (€200K donation or €400K business for fast citizenship), grasp the manufacturing-driven economy under Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, and savour tavče gravče beans. This detailed guide covers everything: top destinations, practical tips, and aviation insights for seamless North Macedonia travel and business.
Introduction to North Macedonia
North Macedonia, with 2 million proud Macedonians, is a Balkan crossroads of Byzantine churches, Ottoman hammams, and Slavic folklore — Europe's oldest lake (Ohrid, 4M years) and youngest nation (2019 name change). In 2025 it draws 1M tourists to UNESCO Ohrid while offering a fast CBI program. This guide covers visa ease, €200K–€400K citizenship paths, and must-sees like Matka for immersive North Macedonia travel.
North Macedonia Independence Date
September 8, 1991 – referendum (95.3% yes) from Yugoslavia. Celebrated as Independence Day with Skopje parades, folk dances, and fireworks.
How to Apply for North Macedonia Visa – 90 Days Visa-Free
90 days visa-free in 180 for 100+ countries (EU, USA, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan). Holders of valid Schengen visa stay up to 15 days. E-visa for non-exempt; passport valid 3+ months post-departure.
North Macedonia Citizenship by Investment 2025
• €200,000 non-refundable donation to government fund
• €400,000 direct business investment (creating 10 jobs for 1 year)
→ Citizenship in 2–5 months. Family included; no residency/language required. Visa-free to 122 countries including Schengen.
Top Places to Visit in North Macedonia
- Skopje – Old Bazaar, Stone Bridge
- Lake Ohrid – UNESCO ancient town, boat rides
- Matka Canyon – Hiking, kayaking
- Bitola – Ottoman architecture, Heraclea ruins
- Krka Monastery – 14th-century frescoes
- Pelister National Park – Big and Small Lake
- Stobi – Ancient Roman city
- Kokino – Bronze Age observatory
Economic Activities & 2025 Outlook
Nominal GDP ≈ €15 billion, 2.6% growth forecast. Key sectors: manufacturing (textiles, metals), tourism (5% GDP), agriculture (wine, tobacco), EU pre-accession funds.
How to Buy a SIM Card in North Macedonia
Makedonski Telekom (best coverage), A1, Lyra at Skopje Airport/kiosks. €5–10 starter with 10–20GB data. Passport required.
Who is the Prime Minister of North Macedonia?
Hristijan Mickoski – VMRO-DPMNE, since June 2024; focuses on EU integration and economic reforms.
Political Status
Parliamentary republic, EU/NATO candidate. Centre-right coalition emphasizes judicial reforms and anti-corruption.
Aviation Services in North Macedonia
Air Macedonia flag carrier. Medevac via EU partners. Scenic flights over Ohrid, helicopter tours Matka Canyon.
Culture, Tavče Gravče & Festivals
Tavče gravče (baked beans), rakija brandy. Festivals: Ohrid Summer (Jul-Aug), Ilinden Uprising Day (Aug 2).
Safety & Practical Tips
Safe for tourists; low crime. English in cities; Denar currency. Buses affordable (Skopje–Ohrid 3h).
Plan Your North Macedonia Journey
From lake swims to canyon hikes, North Macedonia surprises. KiliFlying Air offers charters and scenic flights for your Balkan adventure.
Contact: +255 744 303 141 or message us