North Macedonia Travel Status

NORMAL

Travel to North Macedonia is operating normally. International flights, airports, entry procedures and the country’s main international border crossings are functioning without a significant nationwide travel disruption.

Ordinary travel operating normally

There is no significant current nationwide disruption affecting ordinary tourism, international flights or travel around North Macedonia.

Skopje Airport

Skopje International Airport is the country’s principal international aviation gateway and continues to handle scheduled passenger services.

Ohrid Airport

Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport also handles commercial passenger flights, including seasonal international services.

North Macedonia is not in Schengen

North Macedonia is not a member of the Schengen Area. Travellers entering a Schengen country from North Macedonia therefore cross an external Schengen border.

EU Entry/Exit System

The EU Entry/Exit System is now operating at Schengen external borders. Eligible non-EU travellers going between North Macedonia and a Schengen country may therefore encounter additional biometric immigration procedures.

Allow additional border time

Current UK guidance specifically warns travellers to allow additional time when travelling between North Macedonia and the Schengen Area because EES processing may make border checks take longer.

Visa requirements

Visa requirements depend on nationality. For example, U.S. citizens can currently visit for tourism or business for less than 90 days within a six-month period without a visa.

Passport requirements

Travellers should check the passport-validity rule applying to their nationality before departure. Current UK guidance requires a passport expiry date at least 90 days after arrival.

Registration after arrival

Foreign visitors must be registered with the local police within 48 hours of arriving. Hotels normally complete this registration for their guests.

Driving across borders

Travellers entering North Macedonia by vehicle should carry the appropriate vehicle and insurance documents. Border officials may ask for proof of valid insurance.

Wildfire season

Wildfires can occur between April and October during hot and dry conditions. Temporary restrictions on access to forests and wilderness areas may be introduced when fire danger is high.

U.S. advisory remains Level 1

The U.S. State Department issued its latest North Macedonia advisory on 10 September 2026 and continues to classify the country Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.

Canada recommends normal precautions

Canadian guidance updated on 24 September 2026 continues to recommend taking normal security precautions in North Macedonia.

EES affects Schengen journeys

The EU Entry/Exit System is now being implemented across the Schengen Area. Travellers going between North Macedonia and Schengen countries should be prepared for potentially longer immigration processing.

No major nationwide disruption identified

No significant current nationwide closure or disruption affecting North Macedonia’s airports, international flights or ordinary tourist travel has been identified.

Check your airline and flight status before departure.

Confirm the visa and passport requirements applying to your nationality.

Make sure your accommodation provider registers your stay with the authorities, or arrange the required registration yourself if necessary.

If travelling between North Macedonia and a Schengen country, allow additional time for immigration because of the EU Entry/Exit System.

If driving, carry your vehicle documents and proof of appropriate insurance.

During periods of hot and dry weather, check local information for wildfire warnings or restrictions before visiting forests and rural areas.

Travel Status is designed to highlight significant changes that could affect a trip. It is not a replacement for official immigration, airline or government advice.