North Macedonia
About North Macedonia
North Macedonia, officially the Republic of North Macedonia, is a landlocked country in Southeast Europe located on the Balkan Peninsula. It shares borders with Kosovo to the northwest, Serbia to the north, Bulgaria to the east, Greece to the south, and Albania to the west.
The country covers an area of approximately 25,713 square kilometres and has a population of around 1.8 million people. North Macedonia is known for its mountainous landscape, historical cities, and cultural heritage influenced by Balkan, Byzantine, and Ottoman traditions.
Key Country Information
- Capital City: Skopje
- Head of State (President): Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova
- Head of Government (Prime Minister): Hristijan Mickoski
- Official Language: Macedonian
- Currency: Macedonian Denar (MKD)
- International Dialing Code: +389
Population and Economy
As of 2024–2025, North Macedonia has an estimated population of approximately 1.8 million. The country has a developing economy with steady growth supported by domestic production and foreign investment.
Key economic sectors include manufacturing, automotive components, agriculture, textiles, energy, and services. The government has established special economic zones to attract international companies and boost exports.
European Union and Schengen Status
North Macedonia is not a member of the European Union but maintains close political and economic relations with the EU.
- EU Member State since: ❌ Not a member (EU candidate country since 2005)
- Euro Area Member since: ❌ Uses Macedonian Denar (MKD)
- Schengen Area Member since: ❌ Not a member
Living and Working in North Macedonia
North Macedonia offers a relatively low cost of living and growing employment opportunities, particularly in manufacturing, IT services, and agriculture.
EU and non-EU citizens generally require a temporary residence permit and work permit to legally live and work in North Macedonia. Work permits are usually issued based on an employment contract with a local employer.
Summary
North Macedonia is a Southeast European country with a strategic location in the Balkans and EU candidate status. While it is not part of the EU, Eurozone, or Schengen Area, it continues to strengthen its economic ties with Europe and offers growing opportunities for work and investment.
