Risk level(s)

Safety and security

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs, especially in Skopje’s main downtown pedestrian zone, shopping malls and the Skopje Alexander the Great Airport. Foreigners have been the target of muggings. Remain vigilant at all times. Be particularly careful around groups of street children, who sometimes gather around their victim to ask for money as one of them pickpockets them.

Occasional acts of inter-ethnic violence can occur.

You should exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to the western border zone due to heightened criminal activity in the area.

Fraud

Credit-card fraud is common. Pay careful attention when your card is being handled by others during payment processing.

See our Overseas Fraud page for more information on scams abroad.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities and there is a potential for other violent incidents, which could target areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Continue to exercise normal security precautions.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations and political protests occur frequently in Skopje and other cities. There is currently an increased potential for such protests due to ongoing political instability. Avoid all demonstrations, protests and large gatherings, as they have the potential to suddenly turn violent. They may, occasionally, lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Remain vigilant, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Areas bordering Kosovo and Serbia

You should exercise a high degree of caution in the areas bordering Kosovo and Serbia due to political tensions and possible unrest.

Road safety

Road conditions vary throughout the country. Secondary roads are poorly maintained and lack adequate lighting. In mountainous areas, most roads lack guard rails and are little more than dirt tracks above deep gorges. Ice and snow make driving hazardous in winter. Drivers generally have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe-driving practices. Farm equipment and stray animals pose additional risks. Exercise caution when travelling by road, especially after dark.

Dial 196 for roadside assistance.

Public transportation

Public transportation is not reliable and may not meet Canadian safety standards.

Taxis are widely available and are a reliable mode of transportation. To avoid being overcharged, obtain a price estimate in advance and ensure that the taxi driver is using the meter.

Air travel

The Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.

General safety information

Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

There has been a significant increase in the number of migrants and refugees entering Europe. Some countries have already experienced disruptions to transportation services, including at ferry ports and railway stations, and have seen major delays at border crossings. The situation also heightens the potential for demonstrations that could turn violent without warning, particularly at railway stations and other transportation hubs. If you are travelling in the region, monitor local news and follow the advice of local authorities, and contact your transport carrier to determine whether the situation could disrupt your travel.

On August 20, 2015, Macedonia’s Ministry of Interior declared a state of emergency along its northern and southern borders due to an increase in migrants and refugees entering the country.

On certain holidays or following major elections or soccer matches, there is a tradition of discharging firearms into the air (celebratory fire), often after dark, and to coincide with fireworks displays. Avoid any event where people are engaging in celebratory fire as there have been incidents of injuries and even death caused by stray bullets.

Entry/exit requirements

It is the sole prerogative of every country or territory to determine who is allowed to enter or exit. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements. The following information has been obtained from the Macedonian authorities and is subject to change at any time. The country- or territory-specific entry/exit requirements are provided on this page for information purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, information contained here is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. It is your responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of Macedonia or one of its consulates for up-to-date information.

You must register with the local police within 24 hours of arrival in Macedonia. Registration will normally be arranged by your hotel. If you are not staying in a hotel, registration must be organized by your host. Failure to register can result in fines and difficulties when departing.

Dual citizenship

Canadians who also hold Macedonian citizenship and have been outside of Macedonia for longer than three months should contact the Embassy of the Republic of Macedonia prior to travelling to enquire about specific regulations, which may affect re-entry to Macedonia. See Laws and culture for additional information.

Passport

Canadians must present a passport to visit Macedonia, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure from that country. Prior to travelling, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Temporary passport holders may be subject to different entry requirements. Check with diplomatic representatives for up-to-date information.

Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.

Visas

Tourist visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days

Business visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days

Student visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days

If you want to stay longer than 90 days but did not apply for a visa prior to arriving in Macedonia, you must leave the country and apply for the appropriate visa at a Macedonian embassy or consulate. The Macedonian Border Police strictly enforce entry and exit requirements. If you stay beyond the permitted number of days, you could be severely fined or barred from returning to Macedonia.

Children and travel

Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.

Yellow fever

See Health to obtain information on this country’s vaccination requirements.

Health

Medical services and facilities

Most medical facilities are poorly equipped, and specialized treatment may not be available. Immediate cash payment is usually required for medical services. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers all medical expenses, including hospitalization abroad and medical evacuation, in case of illness or injury.

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws & culture

You are subject to local laws. See Arrest and detention for more information.

Identification

You must carry adequate identification at all times and present it to local authorities upon request. A photocopy of your passport identification page is acceptable. If not carrying your passport with you, ensure to leave it in a secure location.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Macedonia. However, Canadian officials may be limited in their ability to provide you with consular services if local authorities consider you a Macedonian citizen. You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. You may also need to carry and present a Macedonian passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country (see Entry/exit requirements to determine passport requirements). Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. See Travelling as a dual citizen for more information.

Illegal activities

Do not photograph border crossings, government buildings and military installations without prior approval; ask permission from local authorities before taking photographs of these locations.

LGBTQ2 travellers

While not illegal, homosexuality is not socially tolerated in Macedonia.

See Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and two-spirit Canadians abroad for more information.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is recommended.

Drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts at all times. All vehicles must use side lights/dipped headlights during the day.

Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05 percent; however, it is 0.00 for new and professional drivers. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines or jail.

The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited.

Police routinely stop vehicles for inspection.

In the event of an accident, you must call the police and not move the vehicle until the police have allowed you to do so.

Customs

To avoid difficulties upon departure, travellers carrying foreign currency, expensive jewellery or electronic equipment should make a customs declaration upon arrival in Macedonia.

Strict regulations are in place on items of a specific value or deemed to be of cultural or historical significance. If you purchased any works of art or antiques, confirm with the Cultural Heritage Protection Office if you may leave Macedonia with these items before attempting to leave as a permit may be required.

Consult the Macedonian Customs Administration for additional information.

You must make a declaration to customs upon entry or exit if you have at least €10,000, or the equivalent in other currencies. The sum can be in cash, cheques, money orders, traveller’s cheques or any other convertible assets. 

Money

The currency of Macedonia is the Macedonian denar (MKD).

The economy is mostly cash-based. Automated banking machines are available in Skopje and are widespread throughout the country.

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and shops, except in some small grocery stores. Traveller’s cheques are sometimes accepted in hotels, but are readily convertible at banks. Foreign currency can be exchanged at all major banks and at numerous exchange facilities.

Natural disasters & climate

Macedonia is located in an active seismic zone, although serious earthquakes are rare.

Air pollution is severe in several cities in Macedonia. Monitor air pollution levels as they can vary throughout Macedonia and at times, even within the same city.

Between November and February, Skopje and surrounding areas can be affected by thick fog, which can affect air travel. Consult the Skopje airport website for information on potential delays caused by inclement weather.

Assistance

Local services

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Belgrade and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.