City Center Square in Skopje, Macedonia



Understanding the Health System in Macedonia

By Joshua Wood, LPC

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions
BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

Summary: Familiarize yourself with the health system in Macedonia. Understand its usage options and constraints for those who choose to move to and reside there, including expats, digital nomads, and retirees.

  • Understand the types of residency permits
    • Temporary Residence Permit: Valid for up to one year, renewable.
    • Permanent Residence Permit: Valid for five years, renewable.
  • Gather required documents
    • Valid passport
    • Completed application form (available at the nearest police station or on the Ministry of Interior's website)
    • Two passport-sized photographs
    • Proof of sufficient funds to sustain yourself
    • Proof of health insurance
    • Proof of purpose for stay (work contract, study enrollment, etc.)
    • Criminal record check
    • Medical certificate
  • Apply for a Tax Number
    • Visit the Public Revenue Office (PRO) after arriving in Macedonia
    • Submit a completed application form (available at the PRO or on the Public Revenue Office website)
    • Present a valid passport
    • Provide a proof of address in Macedonia
  • Register your address at the local police station
    • Visit the police station nearest to your place of residence
    • Present your passport and rental agreement or proof of homeownership
    • Complete the registration form provided by the police
  • Submit your residency application
    • Visit the nearest police station or the Foreigners Sector at the Ministry of Interior
    • Submit all gathered documents and application form
    • Pay the application fee at a nearby bank and submit the payment receipt
  • Wait for processing and approval
    • The processing time varies, so it's essential to check with the Ministry of Interior for the most accurate information.
    • Once approved, you will receive your residency permit in the form of an ID card.
  • Register with the Employment Agency (if applicable)
    • If you plan to work in Macedonia, visit the Employment Agency (av.gov.mk)
    • Submit your passport, residency permit, and any relevant work contracts or qualifications

Renewing your residency permit

Temporary residence permits can be renewed by submitting a new application with updated documents before the expiration date. Permanent residence permits are valid for five years and can also be renewed.

Additional resources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult the following websites:

Insider Tips from Expats in Macedonia: How to Navigate the Health System

"Macedonia has a public system that provides basic healthcare services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Macedonia is generally considered to be good, with a wide range of services available. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Macedonia can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, there are also private healthcare providers in Macedonia that offer more comprehensive services, although these are usually more expensive than the public system," commented one member living in Macedonia.

"In Macedonia, emergency services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the emergency number 112. The ambulance will be dispatched to the location of the emergency and will provide medical assistance. The ambulance service is free of charge and is available to all citizens of Macedonia," commented one member living in Macedonia.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


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